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HSS hole saws and tungsten carbide hole cutters: the main differences

Hole saws and hole cutters are primarily used on power drills and produce circular cut-outs in a variety of materials.

Depending on the tool height and tool diameter, the cut-outs can be made with a range of different cutting depths and diameters.

Where are hole saws and hole cutters used?

HSS hole saws are primarily used in the electrics and plumbing industries and for manual trades.

Practical examples include:

  • Water, plumbing and heating pipes
  • Sink fittings
  • Built-in lights
  • Hollow-wall and distribution boxes (e.g. for sockets)
  • Waste air pipes


Tungsten carbide hole cutters are used in industry.

Practical examples include:

  • Pipeline and container construction (e.g. in the foodstuff industry)

HSS hole saws: the most important principles

Hole saws are made from tough, shatter-proof, sturdy HSS bimetal. The saw teeth are made of high-quality M42 (Co8) material. Hole saws are used to create cut-outs in aluminium, plastics, wood and soft non-ferrous metals.

Tungsten carbide hole cutters: the most important principles

Tungsten carbide hole cutters are professional tools for quick, precise hole-cutting (cut-outs). They are suitable for working on alloyed and non-alloyed steels, stainless steel (INOX), non-ferrous metals and plastics (including GRP).

The main differences at a glance:

HSS hole saws Tungsten carbide hole cutters
Material is sawn out.Material is cut out.
Made of tough, shatter-proof, sturdy HSS bimetal. The saw teeth consist of high-quality M42 (Co8) material.Cutting edges are made of high-quality tungsten carbide.
For use in the electrics and plumbing industries and for manual trades.Industrial use (e.g. in pipeline and container construction).
Matching hole saw arbors or a quick-mounting system are available depending on the hole saw diameter.Cutting head and shank comprise a single unit. This design guarantees high concentricity.
For working on steel, stainless steel (INOX), aluminium, copper, bronze, brass, plastics and wood.For working on alloyed and non-alloyed steels, stainless steel (INOX), non-ferrous metals and plastics (including GRP).
For use on hand-held and column drills.For use on hand-held and column drills as well as stationary machines.
The range includes a variety of diameters. A selection of the most common HSS hole saws is also available as sets for tradespeople, fitters, electricians and mechanics.Available in a flat type for use on sheets and flat material, as well as a long type for work on pipes and curved surfaces.

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