12mm Drill Bit
When buying a 12mm drill bit for drilling metal it is important to buy the correct drill bit.
Drill bits for metal are available in many different materials. And the price varies greatly according to the type of metal drill bit.
12mm bits for metal are available in HSS, titanium, tungstun, cobalt, carbide and many other variations.
HSS metal drill bits would be considered ‘budget’ drill bits and are ideal for drilling softer metals. However these will not drill harder metals effectively.
Carbide drill bits would be at the top end of drill bits and will be expensive. They are best suited for specialist drilling applications and are often used in production.
Cobalt drill bits are reasonably prices and are capable of drilling harder metals. They will also resist heat build up better than many other drill bits. For these reasons cobalt drill bits are generally the preferred option for mechanics, diy enthusiasts and other professional installers.
A conventional 12mm cobalt drill bit for drilling metals will have an overall length of 151mm
Longer drill bits can be bought from specialist suppliers
Which 12mm drill bit should you buy?
When buying any drill bit for drilling metal it is important to buy one which has a number of excellent cutomer reviews.
Ideally the manufacturer should be able to show a testing certificate indicating the hardness of the drill bit. And of course a supplier which offers a 100% money back guarantee is likely to be supplying a quality drill bit.
Drilling metal with 12 drill bit – what speed?
When drilling metal with any drill bit it is important to drill at the correct speed. Drilling at too high a speed will cause the drill bit to overheat. It can also cause a metal to ‘work harden’ so it is advisable to drill slower rather than faster.
The below drilling speed chart will tell you the correct speed to drill at. This will depend on the metal you are drilling through plus the size of the drill bit you are using.
Do not worry if you are unable gauge the exact speed of your drill. The most important thing is not to drill too fast. So if you have an adjustable speed drill then start off slow.
The main object is to avoid overheating your 12mm drill bit. So apart from drilling slow you should take breaks and use a drilling lubricant.
Top Tip For Drilling Metal with 12mm drill bit
If you are drilling any metal it is important to use a metal lubricant. This is especially important when using a larger bit like a 12mm drill bit. Larger drill bits will generate heat more quickly thank smaller ones. So apart from drilling slowly and using reduced pressure it is very important to use a lubricant.
A good quality lubricant will contain High Pressure Additives. This will reduce the friction whilst drilling and assist in controling the temperature. Ultimately increasing the life of your 12mm drill bit.
12mm drill bit to inches
A 12mm drill bit is approximately 0.472441 inches
Video tutorial / tips on drilling harder metals
FAQ’s for 12mm metal drill bits
Q: What materials can a 12mm drill bit cut?
A: A 12mm cobalt drill bit can cut stainless steel, hardened steel and other tough metals, while HSS is better suited for softer metals.
Q: Is a 12mm cobalt drill bit good for stainless steel?
A: Yes, an M35 cobalt 12mm drill bit is ideal for stainless steel, as it resists heat and avoids work-hardening.
Q: How long is a 12mm drill bit?
A: A standard 12mm cobalt drill bit is approximately 93mm long, though longer jobber lengths are available from specialist suppliers.
Q: What is 12mm in inches?
A: 12mm converts to approximately 0.47244 inches.
Q: Do I need lubricant when drilling with a 12mm drill bit?
A: Yes, always use cutting paste or oil when drilling with a 12mm bit to reduce heat and extend tool life.