Cordless Drills > Cordless Drills Information > Carbide Drill Bits

Carbide Drill Bits

The carbide drill bit is made of an extremely hard and sharp carbon/iron alloy of cobalt and tungsten. These cobalt and tungsten carbide drill bits are ideal for drilling into very hard surfaces like concrete, or metal. Carbide drill bits' hardness not only penetrates extra-hard surfaces, but is very long-lasting. They compare favorably with diamond drill bits, for instance, though they are less efficient than diamond bits at some tasks.

Carbide drill bits can be ground very sharp and hold their edge well, even after repeated usages. Because of this hey are noted for their clean holes. Carbide drill bits' big disadvantage is that in tends to shatter brittle materials like tile or glass. Carbide itself is also somewhat brittle, however, and can shatter in some situations, such as being used with sideways pressure. Using carbide tipped drill bits instead of solid carbide drill bits can mitigate this problem somewhat.