Secure Tip Retention: The side locking mechanism, often using a set screw or semi-cylindrical guide pin, ensures the insert is securely held and precisely centered, minimizing misalignment and ensuring consistent performance.

Material and Coating: Inserts are typically made from high-performance carbide with coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) or proprietary wear-resistant coatings (e.g., Sumitomo’s DEX). These enhance durability, reduce friction, and improve tool life, especially for tough materials like steel, stainless steel, or super alloys.

Versatile Geometries: Available in various tip geometries tailored for specific materials (e.g., steel, cast iron, aluminum) and applications, such as chamfering or flat-bottom drilling. This versatility supports a range of hole sizes and materials with a single drill body.

Cost-Effectiveness: The replaceable tip design reduces tool costs by allowing tip swaps instead of replacing the entire drill. Tips can often be reground 2-3 times, further extending economic benefits.