Why Your Drill Bits Keep Breaking

Are you tired of constantly replacing your drill bits? When used correctly, most drill bits should last for many years. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for them to break. You won't be able to use a broken drill bit. Rather, you'll have to replace it. By understanding why your drill bits keep breaking, though, you can take preventative measures to make them last longer.

Insufficient Chip Removal

Drill bits that fail to provide sufficient chip removal may break. Chip removal is the process of removing the excess waste material from the object or surface with which you use the drill bit. When you drill into an object or surface, the threading of the drill bit should "scoop" out excess waste material. Drill bits that are poorly designed may provide insufficient chip removal. As a result, pressure will build up around the drill bit while causing it to break.

Small Size

The size of a drill bit will determine its risk of breakage. Small drill bits, not surprisingly, are more likely to break than large drill bits. Some drill bits are less than 1 millimeter in diameter. With their small, narrow design, they are easy to break.

Applying Force From the Side

Drilling requires the application of force. You'll have to press the drill so that the drill bit enters the object or surface. Applying force from the side, however, may leave you with a broken drill bit. You should only apply forward force. While standing behind the drill, press the drill directly forward. Forward pressure such as this will better protect your drill bits from breaking -- all while making it easier to drill into objects and surfaces.

Heat

A lesser-known cause of broken drill bits is heat. Heat is a byproduct of drilling. Regardless of what type of object or surface you are drilling into, your drill bit will heat up. Drill bits produce friction as they scoop out material, and heat is the byproduct of this friction. While some heat is to be exposed, excessive heat may cause drill bits to break. It will weaken the drill bits, and eventually, excessive heat may cause them to break.

Cheap Construction

The quality of drill bits can vary. Some of them feature a high-quality construction, whereas others feature a cheap, low-quality construction. You may be able to save some cash by purchasing a cheap set of drill bits, but you could be forced to replace them shortly thereafter. Cheap drill bits are made of low-quality metals and alloys that increase their risk of breakage.