Which type of drill bit is the best choice when drilling through titanium materials?

Cobalt drill bits are an excellent choice for drilling through titanium materials due to their superior heat resistance and hardness. Titanium, being a strong and tough material, generates significant heat during the drilling process. Cobalt bits, made with a specific alloy containing cobalt, offer increased durability and can maintain their cutting edges at higher temperatures compared to other types of drill bits. This characteristic allows them to perform well in the challenging conditions presented by titanium, reducing the risk of dulling or breaking during operation. As a result, cobalt drill bits are favored in aerospace applications where precision and reliability are paramount.

While carbide bits also have high hardness and can handle some of the challenges posed by titanium, they may be more brittle than cobalt bits, which could lead to breakage if not used with the right technique. High-speed steel bits are less effective in high-temperature applications and can quickly lose their sharpness when drilling tough materials like titanium. Diamond-coated bits may excel in certain applications, particularly in hard materials, but they are typically more suitable for specific circumstances, such as when drilling composites or ceramics, rather than for metals like titanium.