Spade Drill Inserts

Spade Drill Inserts Explored

Definition: Spade drill inserts are flat, blade-like cutting tips that fit into spade drill bodies. They are also used to drill large holes in materials like metal or wood, and the inserts are designed to be easily replaced when they become dull or when a different hole size is needed - without changing the whole drill as well. As a result, these inserts are usually made from strong materials to handle heavy-duty drilling, and are common in industrial work and manufacturing because they offer a quick and cost-effective way to change drill sizes and keep tools sharp as well.

How to Choose The Correct Spade Drill Inserts For Your Application?

Spade drill inserts play a key role in modern machining and manufacturing processes.

Regardless if they are Allied Machine or Hertel, for instance, this is in part due to these specialised tools offering you a lot of flexibility, strength, and cost-effectiveness, to name just a few of their popular features - making them a very popular choice in various industries as a result.

So, whether you are involved in aerospace manufacturing, automotive production, or general machining, understanding which spade drill insert is right for you can greatly improve your drilling tool efficiency and output quality, that is why we have put this handy guide together to help you.

However, how do you know which one to choose?
Not to worry, as we have put together this handy guide where we will explore everything there is to know about spade drill inserts — from their design and materials to their benefits, uses, and maintenance - to help you understand which Spade Drill Insert is right for you.

So, let us dive into the fascinating world of spade drill inserts and help you make a more informed decision - and if you are still unsure, our helpful customer service team is on hand to help you as well.

What Are Spade Drill Inserts?

Spade drill inserts are cutting tools designed to be used in spade drills - which are specialised machines for creating holes in a variety of materials.

How do Spade Drill Inserts Work?

Spade drill inserts function by cutting into the material using a flat, spade-shaped cutting edge.

Unlike twist drill bits, which rely on spiralling grooves to remove material, spade drills use the shape and orientation of the insert to create clean, precise holes as a result.

Consequently, these inserts are typically interchangeable and replaceable drill inserts, making them a great cost-effective solution for many drilling operations as a result.

Key Components of Spade Drill Inserts

Spade drill inserts are typically made from high-performance materials like carbide, High-speed Steel (HSS), or cobalt, which allows them to withstand the high levels of stress and heat generated during drilling.

The spade drill system, overall though, consists of several key components, including:

Insert Holder

This is the part that holds the interchangeable inserts.

Insert

This is the cutting part that performs the actual drilling.

Clamping Mechanism

The clamp then ensures the insert remains securely attached during your drilling operation.

Brief History Of Spade Drill Technology

Before spade drill inserts were created, traditional twist drills dominated the industry.

However, as technology advanced, the demand for higher precision, improved drilling and surface speed, and cost savings really did start to grow.

This is where Spade drills entered with their replaceable inserts, which really emerged as a superior alternative due to their reusability and reduced need for sharpening.

Early Developments in Drill Technology

The concept of drilling holes has been around for centuries, and we all know that, but the development of spade drill technology itself only began in the 20th Century.

Which is due to manufacturing needing to become more sophisticated. As a result, the industry sought out more efficient ways to drill holes, especially in hard-to-machine materials.

Then with advancements in metallurgy and tool coating technology, spade drills inserts became increasingly popular as a result, mainly due to their ability to switch out worn inserts without replacing the entire drill - reducing your costs and downtime as result.

How Do These Differ from Other Drill Bits?

There are multiple ways to look at this; for instance, you have:

Spade vs Twist Drill

Twist drills are most common for general-purpose drilling, but spade drills give you better performance in specific applications - like deep-hole drilling, for instance.

Indexable vs Non-Indexable Drills

These differ due to Spade drill inserts being indexable - meaning they can be replaced or resharpened - while non-indexable drills are usually disposed of after the bit wears.

Types of Spade Drill Inserts

There are various types of spade drill inserts available as well, each designed for different purposes.

Broadly speaking here, they tend to fall into two categories, with these being:

Standard vs Custom Inserts

Here, you can get Standard Inserts, which are Pre-designed inserts that fit common applications, and Custom Inserts - which are tailor-made for specific machining tasks - usually of which they are required for specialised industries like aerospace or medical device manufacturing, especially for example.

Coated vs Uncoated Inserts

Coated Inserts, then feature coatings like Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN), which give you an increased hardness and resistance to wear overall.

Then with the Uncoated Inserts, these are more suitable for less demanding applications, as uncoated inserts offer you a more cost-effective option for general-purpose drilling on the whole.

Morse Taper Shank

For instance these are designed with coolant rings, and they also include Torx screws for secure insert clamping.

What Materials Are Used in Spade Drill Inserts?

The material used in spade drill inserts is also key for you to know because it determines the tool’s durability, cutting efficiency, and suitability for what it is going to be drilling into.

For instance, the right material here ensures that the insert can withstand high temperatures, resist wear, and maintain its sharpness during heavy-duty operations as a result.

Carbide

Carbide, for instance, is a highly popular material for spade drill inserts due to its exceptional hardness and heat resistance.

This is particularly well-suited for high-speed machining and cutting through hard materials like steel, carbon steel, structural steel, high nickel alloys, high-temperature alloys, cast iron, and non-ferrous metals, for example.

This is due to Carbide’s ability to retain its cutting edge under intense conditions - making it ideal for industries that demand precision and long tool life as an end result.

High-Speed Steel HSS Super Cobalt

High-speed steel (HSS) Super Cobalt then gives you that excellent level of toughness and heat resistance - making it a superior choice for drilling harder metals, such as stainless steel, titanium, and other alloys, for example.

The added cobalt content then improves your tool’s red hardness, allowing it to maintain its strength at increased temperatures - which really is essential for prolonged drilling applications as a result.

K20 Carbide

K20 Carbide is then another premium grade of carbide known for its good balance between toughness and hardness.

For instance, this will perform exceptionally well in general-purpose drilling and is widely used for cutting through non-ferrous materials, plastics, and harder steels, for example.

K20 Carbide offers gives you a good resistance to wear and breakage, making it a very reliable option for demanding operations on the whole.

Material Properties and Their Uses

Carbide inserts, for example, excel really well in high-temperature environments and give you a longer tool life as a result - whereas HSS inserts are more flexible and less prone to chipping on the whole.

What is the Cutting Diameter Important?

The cutting diameter of a spade drill insert is important because it dictates the size of the hole the tool will create for you.

As a result, selecting the correct diameter will ensure the precision and accuracy of the drilling operation, particularly when working with tight tolerances or creating holes of specific dimensions as well.

Why is the Size Important?

The size of the spade drill insert, particularly its thickness and overall dimensions, will affect how it fits into the tool holder and the depth of drilling.

As a result, you want to select the correct size to make sure it correctly aligns to give you the best results.

Why is the Diameter Range Important

The diameter range here then refers to the variety of hole sizes a specific insert series can accommodate.

For instance, understanding the diameter range really helps in selecting the correct insert for the required hole size, allowing for flexibility across multiple applications as well.

What is the Spade Drill Insert Series / Seat Size, and Why is this Important?

The series numbers of a spade drill insert represent the specific design or family to which it belongs.

For instance, these are standardised designs that ensure the correct compatibility with specific drill holders or machines.

As a result, understanding the series of the insert will help you match it to the correct tool setup, and give you consistent performance as a result.

Series 0 to Series 8

Each series, from Series 0 to Series 8, gives you a different insert design tailored for various applications.

For instance, here:

Series 0

They are typically for smaller, more precise holes.

Series 3

It is a mid-range series offering you a balance between precision and strength.

Series 4

It gives you a higher capacity series for more demanding jobs with larger hole diameters.

Series 7

Then, it offers you more improved performance for deep-hole drilling or harder materials.

Series Y and Z

Y and Z classifications then refer to the design or orientation of the cutting edge, determining how the insert performs in specific drilling conditions.

As a result, understanding the Y or Z orientation will help you ensure your accurate hole geometry while also reducing wear during operation at the same time.

Why is the Insert Grade Important?

Next, let's look at the Grades. A Grade here refers to the classification of the material based on its composition and properties.

For instance, these grades indicate the toughness, wear resistance, and performance characteristics of the insert material - allowing you to choose the best option for your application.

Consequently, these can be broken down as follows:

C1 (K35)

C1 (K35) is a high-grade carbide which is suitable for cutting softer materials like non-ferrous metals, aluminium, and brass.

It also offers you high toughness and durability, making it ideal for operations that require a combination of hardness and shock resistance as a result.

C5 (P40)

C5 (P40) grade carbide is then designed for machining steel and other tough metals.

For instance, this will give you excellent wear resistance and toughness, making it perfect for high-stress applications like deep-hole drilling and heavy-duty cutting where sustained tool life is critical.

HSS CPM-M4

HSS CPM-M4 is then made from a powder metal TiAlN high-speed steel that gives you exceptional wear resistance and hardness as well.

This is also particularly effective for cutting difficult-to-machine materials like tool steels and high-alloy metals, for instance.

The fine microstructure of CPM-M4 also gives it superior edge retention and toughness compared to the more traditional HSS it should be noted.

K20 (C1)

K20 (C1) carbide is then well-suited for general-purpose applications, giving you a great balance between wear resistance and cutting-edge toughness.

Consequently, it is a great grade used in a wide range of drilling operations, including machining cast iron, non-ferrous metals, and some steel, to name a few.

K20 (C2)

K20 (C2) carbide is then harder than C1, making it suitable for tougher materials like harder steels and certain alloys.

Its increased hardness, for instance, makes it less prone to wear, but it may be more brittle, so it tends to be used where the emphasis is more on precision and less on impact resistance as a result.

K35 (C1)

K35 (C1) is then a specialised carbide grade that combines hardness and wear resistance with some very strong toughness.

For instance, it is highly effective for drilling high-strength alloys and hardened materials, making it a great option for industries like aerospace, where both precision and tool life really are needed.

Benefits of Using Spade Drill Inserts

As you can see, Spade inserts can be used for a lot of applications, and this is due to them giving you several advantages over traditional drill bits, including, for instance:

Durability and a Long Lifespan

This is thanks to their material composition and design, as it means that spade drill inserts can withstand high levels of heat and stress - making them last longer than conventional drill bits as a result.

Cost-Effectiveness and Reusability

Unlike solid drill bits that need to be entirely replaced when worn, spade drill inserts can be swapped out, reducing both your tooling costs, set up time, and downtime as a result.

Enhanced Performance in Specific Applications

Spade drill inserts are also ideal for applications that require precision and consistency, especially in industries like automotive and aerospace, where hole quality really is key.

Construction Points

Here a Spade Drill Insert has many points to it. These can consist of things such as Two back flank surfaces - which help with self-centering - the Drill tip, and Taper Shank - which helps to reduce the axial forces compared to more conventional drills - and their XR cross-sectional cutting edge - which helps with giving you a lot more stability in your drilling application.

Applications Suitable for Spade Drill Inserts

Spade drill inserts are used across numerous industries due to their benefits and efficiency.

For instance, here, they tend to be used in:

Industrial Applications

Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and oil & gas heavily rely on spade drill inserts for tasks like hole drilling in large parts, heavy-duty materials, or deep-hole applications, to name just a few for an instant.

General Manufacturing and Tooling Industries

In general manufacturing, spade drill inserts give you high productivity and adaptability, especially when drilling into tough or exotic materials like Inconel or hardened steels, for instance.

Aerospace Manufacturing

Spade drill inserts are also used in the aerospace industry to drill holes in high-strength alloys like titanium and Inconel.

These materials, for instance, require very high-end precision and durability, which spade drill inserts provide. as they help to give you that high-quality hole finishing applications which really are essential for aircraft components.

Automotive Industry

In automotive manufacturing, spade drill inserts are used to drill engine components and chassis parts.

Their ability to handle high-speed machining and withstand tough materials like hardened steel here really makes them ideal for this industry.

Oil and Gas Exploration

The oil and gas industry relies on spade drill inserts to drill into hard, abrasive materials like shale and sandstone.

This is because these types of inserts give you the toughness and wear resistance needed to withstand the extreme conditions encountered during drilling operations.

Medical Device Manufacturing

In the medical device sector, spade drill inserts are used to create precise holes in small and very intricate components made from materials like stainless steel and titanium, for example.

Their precision and accuracy here really are key for ensuring the reliability of medical equipment as a result.

Mould and Die Making

Spade drill inserts are also commonly used in the mould and die industry to create precision holes in tool steels and other hard materials.

This is thanks to their ability to maintain their sharpness and provide consistent performance, which makes them essential for high-precision tasks here.

Power Generation

The power generation industry, particularly in turbine manufacturing, uses spade drill inserts a lot for drilling through heat-resistant alloys.

The inserts' durability, for instance, allows them to perform well in high-temperature environments, providing you with reliable results in turbine blade and rotor production as a result.

Shipbuilding

I In shipbuilding, spade drill inserts are used for drilling through heavy-duty materials such as steel and aluminium as well.

This is in part thanks to their strength, which makes them ideal for creating precise holes in ship structures and components that require high durability, for instance.

Heavy Equipment Manufacturing

Spade drill inserts also play a key role in the heavy equipment manufacturing industry, where they are used to drill large holes in tough materials such as cast iron and steel.

Their robustness and strength here, for example, help as they can handle high levels of stress during heavy-duty operations as an end result.

Precision Engineering

For precision engineering tasks, these tend to rely on spade drill inserts to create accurate and consistent holes in high-tolerance components.

The inserts' ability to maintain tight tolerances, all while ensuring that you get high-quality results in industries where precision is paramount - such as electronics and optical device manufacturing, for instance really is key.

How to Choose the Right Spade Drill Insert for Your Application?

Selecting the correct spade drill insert for a specific task requires a lot of consideration of several factors, for instance:

Material Type

The hardness of the material being drilled will determine the insert material to use, for instance.

Coating

Coatings can improve your wear resistance and increase your tool life in certain applications as well.

Size and Geometry

The size and geometry then will impact the insert’s efficiency in different drilling operations as well.

Proper Installation Techniques

An area that can tend to go overlooked and that can actually help you increase your tool's life span is how to insert them correctly, as this can help prevent wear on the insert itself, as well as prevent damage to the machine.

Consequently, some tips to get this stage right is to focus on the following:

Insert Alignment

You want to, for instance, ensure the spade drill insert is properly aligned with the drill holder before trying to insert it in.

Misalignment here, for instance, can cause uneven wear or damage to the insert as a result.

Torque Settings

You also always want to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for tightening the insert.

Over-tightening, for instance, can damage the holder or the insert, while under-tightening can cause the insert to slip during operation, causing your drill hole to malformed as a result.

Tool Holder Condition

You also want to inspect the tool holder for wear or damage before trying to install it.

For instance, here, a worn-out holder may not secure the insert properly, leading to you producing inefficient drilling results.

Maintenance Tips

To get the most out of your insert, you also want to inspect inserts frequently for wear, chipping, or dull edges.

This is because timely replacement - or sharpening - can prevent further damage from occurring, all while giving you the consistent hole quality you are after.

Coolant Use

You also want to use appropriate coolants and lubricants to reduce any heat buildup, which will help you increase your insert life, all while preventing premature wear from occurring in the process.

Sharpening

Some spade drill inserts can also be resharpened, extending their usable life.

However, sharpening must be done precisely and by people who know what they are doing to be able to keep the original geometry and performance as intended.

How Can You Improve the Performance of Your Spade Drill Inserts?

Several factors influence the performance of your spade drill inserts, and optimising these can really improve both your efficiency and how long they last as well.

Optimal Speed and Feed Rates

For example, each material and insert type has its optimal cutting speed and feed rate.

Consequently, overdriving the tool can cause excessive wear to occur, while underdriving it may result in inefficient drilling to then happen.

As a result, you always want to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct recommended speeds and feeds for your type of application to get the best results.

Harder Materials (e.g., Steel)

Harder materials will require slower speeds and higher feed rates.

Softer Materials (e.g., Aluminum)

Whereas softer materials can be drilled at higher speeds with moderate feed rates for example.

Cooling Techniques and Lubrication

Heat is also a major cause of insert failure, leading to wear, cracking, or even deformation.

As a result, you want to make sure that you use the correct cooling techniques to get the best results and to keep your inserts for as long as possible.

For instance here these can reside around cutting fluids, and Lubricants, such as:

Flood Coolant

For example this will help you get consistent cooling of the insert all while reducing your thermal stress at the same time.

Mist Coolant Systems

These are then more useful for high-speed operations, as they give you a more fine mist of coolant directly to the cutting area.

Lubricants

These specialised lubricants and cutting fluids then help to reduce any friction buildup while also improving the finish of the drilled hole at the same time.

What Are Some Best Practices for Using Spade Drill Inserts?

To maximise the benefits of spade drill inserts, it’s important to follow best practices during use.

For instance, here you have:

Select the Right Insert

You always want to choose an insert that is appropriate for the material being drilled and the desired hole size.

Regularly Inspect and Replace Inserts

You also want to inspect inserts before each use to ensure they are sharp and free from defects.

Use the Correct Drill Setup

This is another obvious one, but you will be surprised how many times this does not occur. Consequently, you want to make sure the drill machine is properly aligned and calibrated to avoid any unexpected inaccuracies while simultaneously reducing the wear on the insert itself.

Use The Correct Cooling

You also want to make sure that you implement adequate cooling methods to maintain the insert’s cutting edge and prevent overheating from occurring.

Monitor Your Drilling Conditions

Then lastly, you want to pay attention to any unusual sounds, vibrations, or poor hole quality, as these may indicate a problem with the insert or drilling setup, and you may need to replace it before it ruins your application.

What is the Lifespan of a Spade Drill Insert?

The lifespan of a spade drill insert depends on factors such as material, coating, feed rates, and the material being drilled to name a couple.

On average, a carbide insert can last for hundreds of holes in softer materials, while harder materials may reduce its life expectancy, which is to be expected.

Can Spade Drill Inserts be Resharpened?

Many spade drill inserts, particularly those made from HSS or cobalt, can be resharpened, yes.

However, carbide inserts are often too brittle for effective resharpening and may need to be replaced instead.

Are Coated Inserts Better Than Uncoated Ones?

Coated inserts generally last longer than uncoated ones, especially in high-speed or high-heat applications as well.

For instance the coatings give you that extra wear resistance and heat protection - making them a better option for demanding tasks as a result.

What Are The Signs That an Insert Needs Replacement?

Signs that an insert needs replacing, for instance, include visible wear or chipping, poor hole quality (rough edges or an inconsistent diameter), excessive heat during drilling, and increased vibration or noise during operation, to name a few.

Do Spade Drill Inserts Work With All Drill Machines?

Spade drill inserts are designed to work with compatible spade drill holders, which are commonly available for most standard drill machines.

However, their compatibility should always be verified based on the specific machine and application they are being used on.

Spade Drill Inserts Overall

Spade drill inserts really are indispensable tools in modern manufacturing, as they can give you superior cost-effectiveness, durability, and flexibility as a result.

So, whether you are working in aerospace, automotive, or general machining, understanding the correct application, selection, and maintenance of spade drill inserts can significantly enhance your overall productivity as well.

Consequently, by selecting the right insert for the job and following best practices in both installation and maintenance, you can ensure that your drilling operations are as efficient and precise as they can be as a result.

Related Products

If you are interested in these Spade Drill Inserts, you may also like:

• Spade Drill Bodies
• Spade Drills
• Carbide Drill Bits

Contact Customer Support

If you are still not sure which Spade Drill Body is right for you or you need help, then please contact our team, and we will be happy to help you understand which ones are perfect for you and your team.

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Who Is MSC Direct?

Here at MSC Industrial Supply Co., we are a leading supplier of industrial tools, equipment, and maintenance supplies across the United Kingdom and can also offer you trade accounts, along with a wide range of inserts in our product range above.

As a result, we can offer you a vast selection of similar products, including countersinks, masonry drill bits, hand tools, indexable insert drills, cutting tools, abrasives, power tools, Reamer tools, and safety equipment, many of which are available with special offers.

We also serve a wide range of industries, from manufacturing and engineering to maintenance and beyond.

Consequently, our outstanding customer service and expert technical team, fast delivery times, and technical support make us a trusted partner for all your business needs as a result.