Professionals know that their tools are their livelihood. The wrong tool can mess up a job badly, causing delays and dissatisfaction. This is especially true of jobs that involve cutting, grinding, or drilling hard materials like concrete, stone, or even asphalt. That’s why every pro (and even skilled DIYers) should know these factors to consider when buying core drill bits.
Size
Diamond drill bits come in sizes as small as 1mm in diameter and as large as 60mm or larger. The materials you’re drilling coupled with the size hole you must make will dictate the drill bit you need to do the job. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations to match the size to the materials and the job.
Bond
Just as with diamond saw blades, the bond that adheres the diamonds to the drill bit is important. When you’re drilling softer materials, you need a harder bond that won’t wear away too fast. With hard materials, you need a softer bond that will expose a fresh layer of diamonds as the drill does its work.
Diamond drill bits come in electroplated and sintered bond versions. Electroplated drill bits have one layer of diamonds, suitable for drilling softer materials. Sintered bonds create layers of diamonds that are exposed when the surface above wears through. These are suitable for drilling harder materials like concrete and stone.
Grit and Density
Grit refers to the size of the diamond particles bonded to the surface of the drill bit, while density measures how many diamonds occupy a square inch on the surface of the drill bit. Hard materials need coarser grit measures, while softer materials need a finer grit, much like sandpaper measured in coarse to fine types.
Depth
How deep must you drill to complete your job? Diamond drill bits are available in different lengths capable of penetrating materials from tenths of millimeters to over a foot in inches.
Penetration Rate
Diamond core drills will bore through materials at different rates. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to match the materials you intend to drill with the penetration rate the drill bit can achieve. Of course, much depends on the power of the drill you’re using, but if you apply too much power or pressure to some drill bits, they won’t perform as well. The geometric pattern of the drill bit’s tip will also affect penetration rate.
These are just a few factors to consider when buying core drill bits. Contact Pro Blades Outlet with questions about which diamond core drill bit is right for you.
