Chicago-latrobe 54074 Cobalt Jobber Drill Bit 31/64 in

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 54074 is a cobalt M42 jobber-length drill bit designed for demanding metal drilling applications. Built to Series 2550 standards, it features a 135-degree split point that reduces walking and cutting pressure at entry, making it well suited for hard and tough materials. The bit carries a titanium nitride (TiN) coating that improves surface hardness and extends tool life in high-cycle production environments. At 5-7/8 inches overall length with a 4-3/8-inch flute, it fits standard drill chucks and magnetic drill setups used across fabrication, mechanical, and maintenance trades.

This bit is built for drilling stainless steel, alloy steel, and other hard ferrous metals where standard HSS bits wear prematurely. The right-hand spiral flute with web-thinned, tapered web geometry clears chips efficiently and reduces torque demand on the tool. It is a practical choice for plumbers, pipefitters, HVAC installers, electricians, and general maintenance technicians who regularly drill through structural steel, equipment frames, or stainless enclosures on the job site or in the shop.

Key Features

• M42 cobalt construction for heat resistance and hardness retention in hard-metal drilling
• 135-degree split point reduces walking and lowers entry cutting pressure
• Titanium nitride (TiN) coating extends wear life in repetitive drilling operations
• Web-thinned tapered web reduces torque and improves chip clearance
• Right-hand spiral flute with regular spiral type for consistent chip evacuation
• Meets DIN 338 and NAS 907 Type J standards for dimensional and performance consistency

Compatibility

Designed for use in standard straight-shank drill chucks. The 31/64-inch straight-cylindrical shank fits 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch capacity chucks on corded drills, drill presses, and magnetic base drills. Intended primary workpiece materials are stainless steel and steel per Series 2550 application data.

Installation Notes

Install the bit fully and securely in the chuck before operation and verify the shank is centered to prevent runout. Use cutting fluid or coolant when drilling stainless steel to control heat buildup and preserve the TiN coating. Apply consistent, moderate feed pressure — excessive force can overheat the cutting edge and reduce tool life. Drilling at appropriate speeds for the workpiece material hardness is critical; consult a speeds-and-feeds reference for M42 cobalt in stainless or alloy steel applications.