Selecting an annular cutter
What is an annular cutter? An annular cutter only cuts the circumference of the hole. The annular cutter’s ejector pin is used to push out the cut-out material. Annular cutters are particularly used for larger diameters - from 12 mm upwards. The difference compared with a standard cutter is that not all the material needs machining.
Annular cutters and magnetic drills
Annular cutters are used in a magnetic drill, also known as an annular drill. The advantage of this magnetic drill is its magnetic force. This magnetic force fixes the drill firmly onto the surface, enabling large holes to be drilled, both vertically and horizontally, on site – needing little force and providing a great deal of stability. Due to their compactness, magnetic drills are also easy to transport.
Annnular cutter selection
For reliable results, including during tricky applications, various annular cutters and designs are available. The cutting depth is a very important consideration when making your selection.
Cutting depth = the measurement of the maximum possible material thickness to be drilled
In addition to cutting depth, there are options for longer tool life, faster drilling or specific applications.
Overview of annular cutters by application
The following overview shows the recommended annular cutter quality for each application.
Overview of annular cutters by application | Recommended annular cutters | Shanks available |
| Standard | HSS-EX | Weldon and Fein QuickIN |
| Longer life on structural steel | Nitrided HSS-EX | Weldon |
| Long life | Coated HSS-EX TiAlN | Weldon |
| Hardox up to 450 | HSS-EX Rail | Weldon |
| Large batches or faster drilling | Carbide tipped | Weldon and Fein QuickIN |
| Large diameters (up to 100 mm) | Carbide tipped | Weldon and Fein QuickIN |
| Universal use (aluminium, stainless steel, hardened steel up to 40HRc) | Carbide tipped | Weldon and Fein QuickIN |
| Cooling not possible or dry machining | Carbide tipped | Weldon and Fein QuickIN |
| Hardox up to 600 | Carbide tipped Rail | Weldon |
| Small sizes | Annular cutter collet chuck | Weldon |
| Short clamping | Annular cutter collet chuck | Weldon |
See our full wide range of annular cutters.