Carbide burs are versatile tools used in various industries for cutting, shaping, and removing material. They are known for their hardness and durability, making them suitable for working with a wide range of materials.
Common materials that carbide burs can be used on include:  * Metals: This is a primary application. Carbide burs excel at machining various metals, including steel (stainless, carbon, alloy), cast iron, aluminum, brass, copper, and titanium. They are frequently used for deburring, shaping welds, and creating precise forms in metal components.
  * Plastics and Composites: Due to their sharp cutting edges and ability to withstand heat, carbide burs are effective on many types of plastics, acrylics, and composite materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber. They are used for trimming, shaping, and finishing these materials without melting or fraying.
  * Wood: While less common than for metals, carbide burs can also be used on wood for detailed carving, shaping, and routing, especially on harder woods where HSS (High-Speed Steel) bits might dull quickly.
  * Ceramics and Abrasive Materials: With specific geometries and coatings, some carbide burs can be used on softer ceramics, plaster, and other abrasive materials, though specialized diamond tools are often preferred for harder ceramics and glass.
  * Dental Applications: In dentistry, miniature carbide burs are crucial for preparing cavities, removing old fillings, and shaping teeth, as they can precisely cut enamel and dentin.The specific type of carbide bur (e.g., cut style, head shape, and coating) will determine its optimal performance and longevity on different materials.