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Changeable (Indexable Insert) Drill Bit Set Selection — Quick Reference
Changeable (indexable insert) drill bits = REPLACEABLE CARBIDE INSERT TIPS rather than solid HSS or cobalt drill body. When cutting edge wears, INSERT is INDEXED or REPLACED — maintaining consistent hole size + accuracy + production reliability.
| Indexable Drill Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Standard Indexable Drill | Production drilling + 12-50mm diameter |
| Larger Diameter (50-100mm+) | Heavy fab + structural — replaces twist drill |
| Coolant-Through | Direct coolant to cutting zone |
| Replaceable Carbide Inserts | Index when worn = multiple uses per insert |
| Indexable Drill Body | Reusable holder — only inserts consumable |
| Specific Tool Holder (Square Shank) | Match to turret / spindle |
| Step Drill Configuration | Drill + chamfer combined |
When indexable vs HSS twist drill: Indexable = PRODUCTION + sustained drilling + larger diameters (>20mm). HSS twist drill = workshop one-offs + small holes. Cost-per-hole BREAKEVEN at moderate volumes — calculate per job. Brands: Seco, Maxigear. Companion: drilling, indexable inserts, machinery.
Changeable Drill Bit Sets
Changeable (indexable insert) drill bits use replaceable carbide insert tips rather than a solid HSS or cobalt drill body. When the cutting edge wears, the insert is indexed or replaced — maintaining consistent hole quality and drill performance without regrinding. AIMS Industrial stocks changeable drill bit sets and individual bodies and inserts for CNC, lathe and machining centre applications.
Advantages Over Solid Drills
Indexable insert drills offer several advantages in production machining. There is no regrinding cost or delay — inserts are replaced in seconds on the machine. Consistent edge geometry is maintained from hole to hole, ensuring consistent hole size, surface finish and position. Higher cutting speeds and feed rates are achievable with carbide inserts versus HSS solid drills, reducing cycle time in high-volume production. The drill body is reused indefinitely, with only the inserts replaced when worn.
Insert Grades and Coatings
Carbide insert grade selection for changeable drills is determined by the workpiece material. Uncoated carbide suits cast iron and non-ferrous materials; TiN, TiAlN or AlTiN-coated grades are used for steel and stainless steel at high cutting speeds. Multi-edge inserts (two cutting edges per insert) double insert life before replacement is needed, reducing insert cost per hole. Insert grades are typically manufacturer-specific and matched to the drill body design.
Applications
Changeable drill bits are the preferred choice for production machining of repetitive hole patterns in steel, cast iron, aluminium and similar materials where hole volume makes solid drill regrinding uneconomical. For guidance on the right indexable drill system for your machining application, contact our team. AIMS Industrial has been supporting Australian workshops since 1988.