Drill bit Art-Pol HSS straight shank 8 mm for metal, model 53380

Art-Pol HSS straight shank drill bit 8 mm (model 53380) is a high-speed steel twist drill designed for drilling metal. The 8 mm diameter and cylindrical shank make it compatible with most hand drills and drill presses. Constructed from carbide-free HSS, the bit provides wear resistance and reliable cutting edge retention for tasks involving steel, cast iron and non-ferrous metals. The geometry is optimised for general-purpose metalworking operations in workshops, maintenance and fabrication settings.

Advantages

The HSS material offers a balance of hardness and toughness that resists rapid wear while minimising brittleness under normal drilling conditions. The straight (cylindrical) shank provides stable clamping in standard chucks without requiring an adapter. The 8 mm diameter is a common size for through-holes, pilot holes and mounting operations, and the general-purpose flute geometry facilitates efficient chip evacuation when drilling metals. This bit is suitable for repeated use in workshop repairs and light industrial applications.

Suitable for

• Drilling holes in mild and medium carbon steel
• Working with cast iron and non-ferrous metals such as aluminium and brass
• Use in hand-held drills and bench drill presses
• Workshop maintenance, fabrication and repair tasks

Key specifications

• Material: high-speed steel (HSS), carbide-free
• Diameter: 8 mm
• Shank type: straight / cylindrical
• Tip/point: standard twist drill geometry for metal
• Intended use: general metal drilling

How to use

Secure the drill bit in the chuck ensuring correct alignment and tight clamping of the straight shank. Select a suitable cutting speed for the metal being drilled—lower speeds for harder steels, higher speeds for softer non-ferrous metals. Use a centre punch or pilot mark to prevent wandering at the start of drilling. Apply steady feed pressure and pause periodically to clear chips; for deeper holes use peck drilling to avoid clogging. When drilling steel, apply appropriate cutting fluid to reduce heat and extend tool life.

Usage recommendations

For best results, match drill speeds and feed rates to the specific metal: use slower RPM and cutting fluid for hardened steels, and higher RPM with moderate feed for aluminium and brass. Inspect the cutting edge regularly and replace the bit if you notice excessive wear or chipping to maintain hole quality and operator safety.