Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits

Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits are professional-grade
high speed steel cobalt (HSS-Co) drill bits designed for
demanding drilling applications in hard and abrasive metals.
Manufactured from cobalt-alloyed HSS (typically around 5% cobalt) with a
135° split-point tip, they deliver superior performance and long life when
drilling stainless steel, high-tensile and alloy steels as well as
mild steel, cast steel and non-ferrous metals. Ideal for
fabricators, engineers, mechanics, M&E installers, maintenance teams and serious DIY users. Irwin HSS drill bits for metal are engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty applications, ensuring they can tackle even the most challenging materials with precision. These bits also feature enhanced heat resistance, making them suitable for high-speed drilling without compromising on performance. Users can expect consistent results and durability, making Irwin HSS drill bits an essential tool in any professional’s arsenal.

Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits are engineered for applications where
standard HSS bits struggle or wear out rapidly, such as drilling
stainless steel and high-tensile alloys. Using a cobalt-enriched HSS formulation,
these bits maintain cutting hardness at elevated temperatures (high red hardness), making them ideal for: ferrotek steel self drilling screws are designed to provide a secure hold in various materials, eliminating the need for pre-drilling. Their advanced thread design promotes faster installation and increased resistance to stripping, making them a reliable choice for both professional and DIY projects. Whether you’re working with wood, metal, or plastic, ferrotek steel self drilling screws deliver performance you can trust.

• Stainless steel (INOX), including austenitic grades,
• High-tensile and alloy steels,
• Abrasion-resistant and work-hardening materials,
• Mild steel, structural steel, cast steel, and
• Non-ferrous metals like aluminium, brass and copper.

The 135° split-point is designed to:

• Reduce the tendency of the bit to skate or wander,
• Provide a more aggressive, fast-cutting action, and
• Lower the thrust force required, especially in harder materials.

Irwin HSS Cobalt bits are supplied in individual sizes and as
assortment sets (e.g. 1–10 mm or 1–13 mm ranges), covering the majority of
on-site and workshop drilling requirements. In addition to drill bits, various accessories are essential for achieving optimal results, such as a 1/4 drive screwdriver bit holder. These holders allow for quick and easy swaps between bits, enhancing productivity on the job. Moreover, they are compatible with a wide range of power tools, making them a versatile addition to any toolkit. when considering stainless steel screw advantages and drawbacks, it is important to note their resistance to corrosion and overall durability, making them ideal for outdoor applications. However, they can be more expensive than alternatives like zinc-plated screws, which may deter some users. Additionally, while they offer excellent strength, their tendency to expand and contract with temperature changes can lead to issues in certain environments.

Typical Use Cases

• Stainless steel fabrication – drilling handrails, balustrades, cladding, exhaust components, tanks and frames.
• Engineering & fabrication workshops – drilling holes in high-tensile steels, plate, box section, angle and profiles.
• Automotive & plant maintenance – drilling into chassis, brackets, fixings and tough components on vehicles and machinery.
• Mechanical & electrical installation – penetrations in stainless trunking, containment, control panels and enclosures.
• General metalworking – any situation where ordinary HSS bits blunt too quickly or fail in hard steels.

Application & Usage Tips

• Tool & mode selection:
  • Use with cordless drills, corded drills or drill presses equipped with a 3‑jaw chuck.
  • Always drill in rotary-only mode; do not use hammer action with HSS cobalt bits.
• Speed & feed (especially for stainless and hard steels):
  • Use lower RPM than for mild steel or wood; cobalt bits work best at
    moderate speed with firm, steady pressure.
  • General rule: the larger the bit diameter, the lower the RPM.
  • Avoid excessive speed which causes overheating, blueing and rapid dulling.
• Cutting fluid:
  • Always use cutting oil/fluid when drilling stainless, high-tensile steel and thicker metals.
  • Cutting fluid:
    • Reduces friction and heat,
    • Improves finish, and
    • Greatly extends tool life.
• Starting the hole:
  • The 135° split-point reduces walking, but on very smooth, coated or curved surfaces,
    use a centre punch to help locate the tip.
  • Begin drilling with firm but controlled pressure until the point has fully engaged.
• Drilling technique:
  • Keep the drill square to the workpiece for true, round holes.
  • For deeper holes, use a peck-drilling method: advance a short distance, withdraw to clear chips,
    reapply cutting fluid and continue.
  • If you hear squealing or see blue chips/bit, slow the speed, increase lubrication and check for wear.
• Care & sharpening:
  • Allow the drill bit to cool naturally; do not quench in water (may cause micro-cracking).
  • Store bits in a drill index or case to protect cutting edges from impact damage.
  • Irwin cobalt bits can be re-sharpened using suitable drill sharpeners or grinding equipment
    while maintaining the correct point angle and lip geometry.

Technical & Performance Overview

Specifications may vary slightly by Irwin HSS Cobalt series (e.g. DIN standard, size range, geometry),
but typical features are as follows. Always refer to the specific pack or Irwin technical data for
exact information.

• Brand: Irwin
• Product type: HSS-Co (cobalt) twist drill bits.
• Base material: High speed steel with cobalt content (often ~5% Co – M35 grade or similar).
• Manufacturing: Ground flutes and diameter for precision and improved chip evacuation.
• Point geometry: Typically 135° split-point for fast, self-centring starts.
• Shank type: Straight (cylindrical) shank, sized to bit diameter
  (larger sizes may feature reduced shank variants – check item).
• Size range: Common metric sizes from approx. 1.0 mm to 13.0 mm
  (and beyond in some sets), available as singles and in sets.
• Suitable materials:
  • Stainless steel (INOX),
  • High-tensile and alloy steels,
  • Mild steel and structural steel,
  • Cast steel,
  • Non-ferrous metals (aluminium, brass, copper),
  • Many hard plastics when drilled with appropriate speeds and care.
• Tool compatibility: Suitable for drill/drivers, rotary drills and drill presses
  with standard 3‑jaw chucks.
• Standards: Manufactured in line with relevant DIN/ISO standards for HSS twist drills (see packaging).
• Storage: Store in a dry, clean drill case or index; avoid loose storage where lips can be chipped.

Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits Features & Customer Benefits

• Specifically built for hard metals
  Cobalt-alloyed HSS is optimised for stainless steel and high-tensile materials,
  where standard HSS quickly overheats and dulls.
• Fewer bit changes, lower consumable costs
  Longer life in demanding conditions means fewer replacements and less downtime on site and in the workshop.
• Accurate drilling with less wandering
  The 135° split-point geometry improves self-centring, helping to
  hold position and start holes precisely even on curved or sloping surfaces (with proper technique).
• Versatility across industries
  Suitable for fabrication, M&E installation, automotive, maintenance, construction and engineering,
  reducing the need for multiple specialist bit types.
• Trusted Irwin quality
  Backed by a leading professional tool and accessory brand, giving confidence in
  consistency, reliability and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions – Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits

1. When should I choose Irwin HSS Cobalt instead of standard HSS or titanium-coated bits?

Choose Irwin HSS Cobalt when you regularly drill:

• Stainless steel,
• High-tensile bolts and steels,
• Abrasive or work-hardening metals, or
• Where standard HSS or TiN-coated bits are burning out too quickly.

Cobalt bits offer better heat tolerance and wear resistance in these harsh conditions.

2. Are Irwin cobalt bits suitable for stainless steel?

Yes. They are particularly well-suited to stainless steel (INOX), provided you:

• Use low-to-moderate speeds,
• Apply a good quality cutting fluid, and
• Use steady, firm feed pressure (avoid rubbing).

This minimises work hardening and maximises tool life.

3. Can Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits be re-sharpened?

Yes. They can be re-sharpened using appropriate drill sharpeners or grinding equipment:

• Maintain the 135° point angle (or original geometry),
• Ensure both cutting lips are equal length and angle,
• Avoid overheating during grinding (use coolant or light passes).

4. Can I use these bits in a cordless drill?

Absolutely. They work very well in modern, high-torque cordless drills:

• Select a low speed/high torque gear setting,
• Use sharp bits and cutting oil for metals,
• Avoid stalling the drill or applying excessive side load.

5. Are Irwin cobalt bits overkill for aluminium and soft metals?

They can be used on aluminium, brass and other soft metals, but cobalt is primarily beneficial in
hard or abrasive materials. For frequent drilling in softer materials, standard HSS or TiN-coated bits
may be more cost-effective, though cobalt will still perform very well.

6. Common Uses & How to Use Irwin HSS Cobalt Drill Bits

Common Uses:

• Drilling fixing, clearance and tapping holes in stainless steel fabrications.
• Creating bolt and rivet holes in high-tensile and structural steels.
• Maintenance tasks on industrial machinery and vehicles where metals are tough or hardened.
• Workshop fabrication of jigs, brackets, plates and guards from hard steels.

How to Use – Step-by-Step:

1. Select the appropriate bit size for your hole and ensure the bit is sharp and undamaged.
2. Clamp or firmly support the workpiece; mark the hole location and centre punch if drilling metal.
3. Insert the bit into the drill’s chuck and tighten securely; set the drill to rotary-only mode.
4. Apply a small amount of cutting fluid to the mark (especially on stainless or hard steel).
5. Start drilling at a low speed with steady pressure until the bit fully engages and begins to cut.
6. Use a pecking action for deep holes, withdrawing periodically to clear swarf and reapply cutting fluid.
7. Once through the material, reduce pressure and allow the bit to break through cleanly; release the trigger and let it stop before withdrawing.
8. Wipe away chips and fluid, then inspect the hole for accuracy and finish.