Hot Tapper, Carbide Hole Saws

Carbide hole saws are designed for demanding applications where traditional hole saws fall short. Unlike bi-metal saws, which can struggle with hard or abrasive materials, carbide hole saws have grind and set teeth with tungsten carbide tips, which results in faster cuts and longer tool life.

These durable cutting tools are suitable for penetrating tough surfaces such as stainless steel, cast iron, cement board, fastener-embedded wood, and fiberglass. Whether you're working on industrial installations or cutting through reinforced surfaces, a carbide hole saw for metal provides cleaner cuts and higher chip clearing due to its wider gullet and 3-teeth-per-inch design.

Features & Benefits of Tungsten Carbide Tip Hole Saws

Carbide tip hole saws are designed to deal with tough materials and provide aggressive cutting performance. Their innovative tooth design and durable construction make them suited for tasks that bi-metal hole saws cannot handle.

• Ground & Set Teeth - Engineered to cut through severe materials that bi-metal saws cannot handle.
• 3 Teeth Per Inch (TPI) - Wider gullets for improved chip clearance and cutting speed.
• Tungsten Carbide Tips - Provides superior wear resistance and long-lasting sharpness in difficult applications.
• Cuts Tough Materials- Suitable for stainless steel, cast iron, cement board, fiberglass, plaster, and wood with fastener implanted.
• Flat Surface Use Only - Designed for clean, efficient cuts on flat surfaces; not recommended for curved or pipe applications.

Materials You Can (and Can’t) Cut with Carbide Hole Saws

Carbide hole saws are designed for power and durability, however they are not suitable for all materials. Knowing what you can and cannot cut helps to extend tool life and prevent damage.

Suitable For:

• Stainless steel
• Cast iron
• Cement board
• Fiberglass
• Fastener-embedded wood
• Plaster
• Asphalt shingles

Not Suitable For:

• Pipe surfaces
• Brass, aluminum
• Ceramic, granite, marble
• Glass, terrazzo

Avoid using on soft metals, curved surfaces, or brittle materials to prevent chipping, overheating, or tool failure.

Applications: When to Choose a Carbide Hole Saw for Metal

When cutting through particularly hard, abrasive, or layered materials, a carbide hole saw for metal is the best option. Standard or bi-metal hole saws will quickly wear out.

• Industrial Fabrication - Cut clean holes in stainless steel, cast iron, and structural metal panels with consistent precision and longevity of the tool.
• Mechanical and Plumbing Installations - Ideal for drilling through cement board, metal cabinets, and wall panels to install pipe, conduit, or hardware.
• Construction and Renovation Projects - Use on materials such as cement board, plaster, and composite siding during framing, renovation, and utility installation.
• Fastener-Embedded Wood - Ideal for demolition or remodeling projects involving hidden screws or nails in wood structures.

These saws work best on flat surfaces and should not be used on pipes, aluminum, brass, or brittle ceramics.

Find the Right Carbide Tip Hole Saw For Cutting

Our tungsten carbide hole saws are designed for tough operations, delivering quick, clean cuts through stainless steel, cast iron, cement board, and more. Their durable tooth design and long tool life make them perfect for professionals who want reliable performance in challenging materials.

Browse our full selection of carbide hole saws to find the right size for your job. For help with sizing, compatibility, or bulk orders, contact us at  sales@petersenproducts.com  or call262-692-3100.

FAQs

What drill should I use with a carbide hole saw?

Use a powerful drill with a variable speed setting and a compatible arbor. For best results, choose a corded drill or a high-torque cordless drill with a side handle. A drill press can also be used when working on flat, stationary materials. Avoid using lightweight or high-RPM tools, as carbide saws require controlled speed and torque.

Can I use carbide hole saws on curved surfaces?

No. Carbide hole saws are not recommended for curved or pipe surfaces. The rigid tooth design requires a flat, stable surface for safe and accurate cutting. Using them on round or uneven surfaces can lead to kickback, binding, or damage to the tool and workpiece.

How long do tungsten carbide hole saws last?

Tungsten carbide hole saws typically last much longer than  bi-metal saws  , especially when used on abrasive materials. Lifespan depends on the material being cut, cutting speed, cooling/lubrication, and operator technique. With proper use, carbide-tipped saws can outlast standard hole saws by 5–10 times or more.