Drill bit set Rittal 4050.817 — Centering drill bits, M12 thread, 3 pcs, for aluminium, plastic, steel, stainless steel

Rittal 4050.817 is a 3-piece set of centering drill bits engineered to produce accurate starter holes and to guide taps for M12 threaded holes. Designed for use on aluminium, plastic, steel and stainless steel, these centering bits aid in precise panel work, machine centre operations and preparatory drilling for tapping in industrial and workshop environments.

Advantages

The set includes three centering drill bits that provide consistent hole position and reliable guidance for subsequent tapping, reducing the risk of misalignment. Compatibility with multiple materials—aluminium, plastic, steel and stainless steel—makes the set versatile for a range of metalworking and fabrication tasks. The bits are intended to simplify preparation for M12 threads, improving workflow efficiency in repetitive operations.

Suitable for

• Drilling starter/centering holes for M12 taps in panels and enclosures
• Machine centre and bench drilling where accurate hole position is required
• Workshop and industrial metalworking on aluminium, steel and stainless steel
• Preparing holes in plastic components before tapping or countersinking

When it may not be suitable

This centering drill bit set is intended specifically for creating starter holes and guiding taps for M12 thread work; it is not a comprehensive drill bit assortment for general-purpose drilling of large diameters or non-centre drilling tasks. For high-volume production on very hard or heavily alloyed materials, specialized drills or coolant/lubrication systems may be required to maintain tool life and hole quality.

Key specifications

• Type: Centering drill bits (centres for tap guidance)
• Thread size supported: M12 (intended for preparing holes for M12 taps)
• Quantity: 3 pieces
• Suitable materials: Aluminium, Plastic, Steel, Stainless steel

How to use

Secure the workpiece and select an appropriate drill press or hand-held drill with suitable clamping. Mark the desired hole position and center the bit on the mark. Drill at recommended speeds for the workpiece material, using light feed to establish a precise starter hole. After centering, proceed with the correct-size drill for tapping if required, then use the tap with the appropriate lubricant and tapping technique. Maintain consistent alignment between bit, drill and tap to ensure proper thread formation.

What to consider before purchase

• Confirm that you require centering bits sized to prepare holes for M12 threads
• Ensure compatibility of the bits with the materials you will work on (aluminium, plastic, steel, stainless steel)
• Assess whether three pieces are sufficient for your job volume and whether replacement or larger sets are needed
• Check that your drill or machine can securely hold the centering bit shank

Usage recommendations

Use appropriate speeds and cutting lubricants for the specific material: lower speeds and cutting fluid for stainless steel, moderate speeds for steel, and higher speeds for aluminium and plastics. Inspect bits regularly for wear and replace when the centering tip becomes rounded to maintain accuracy when preparing holes for M12 tapping.