ToolsArmenia Knowledge BaseHow to Choose a Consumable for the Workpiece MaterialChoosing the right consumable starts with the material being drilled, cut, sawn or ground—not with brand or price. This guide explains how to match consumables to concrete, metal, wood, ceramic and plastic.Reading time: about 7 minutesUpdated: 2026/08ToolsArmenia Editorial TeamContentsWhy material mattersSelection criteriaMaterial comparisonCommon mistakesFinal checklistFrequently asked questionsWhy the workpiece material mattersMaterials differ in hardness, abrasiveness, thermal behaviour and structure. A drill bit, disc or blade that looks similar may work efficiently on one material but wear quickly, overheat or damage another. Multi-material products should only be used for the materials explicitly listed by the manufacturer.ToolsArmenia: Find the manufacturer’s material list. Do not rely on appearance alone. Choosing Tool Accessories and ConsumablesHow to choose the right consumableIdentify the material precisely: concrete, reinforced concrete, brick, steel, aluminium, softwood, hardwood, ceramic tile or plastic.Define the operation: drilling, cutting, sawing, grinding, chasing or surface cleaning. Read more in “How to Choose a Consumable for the Intended Task”.Check tool type, mounting system, diameter, thickness and permitted operating mode. For the full compatibility check, read “How to Check Consumable Compatibility with a Tool”. Mounting systems, size and speed limits are also covered in “Differences Between SDS Plus, SDS Max, and HEX Systems”, “How to Choose the Correct Accessory Size” and “What Is Rotational Speed (RPM)”.Find the manufacturer’s material list. Do not rely on appearance alone.Choosing consumables by materialMaterialSuitable consumableWhat to checkConcrete, brick and stoneCarbide masonry drill bits and suitable diamond cutting accessoriesDistinguish concrete, reinforced concrete, brick and natural stone.MetalMetal drill bits and suitable cutting or grinding discsMatch metal type, thickness, operation and tool speed.WoodWood drill bits, saw blades and jigsaw/reciprocating blades with suitable tooth geometryConsider hardness, cut quality or speed, and possible embedded nails.Ceramic and tileTile/ceramic drill bits, hole saws and diamond accessoriesCheck cracking risk and the specified dry or wet method. Read more in “Dry vs Wet Operation: How to Choose the Correct Method”.PlasticPlastic-approved drill bits and fine-tooth bladesAvoid overheating, melting and edge cracking.Common mistakesChoosing only by diameter or appearance.Using a concrete accessory on metal or a metal accessory on tile.Treating “multi material” as unlimited compatibility.Ignoring shank, bore, tool type or permitted mode.Continuing with a cracked, bent, damaged or overheated consumable.Continuing with a cracked, bent, damaged or overheated consumable.Check before choosingWhat material is being worked and in what condition?What operation is required?Does the manufacturer list this material?Is the consumable compatible with the tool and mounting system?Do dimensions and operating mode match?Is the consumable free from visible damage?Frequently asked questionsCan one consumable be used on different materials?Yes, only when the manufacturer identifies it as multi-material and lists the permitted materials.Why can’t a metal drill bit replace a masonry bit?Their cutting geometry, material and operating mechanisms are different.How should I choose for reinforced concrete?Choose a product explicitly approved for reinforced concrete and verify system, diameter and length.Are dry and wet tile accessories the same?Not always. Follow the manufacturer’s stated operating and cooling method.When should work stop?Stop immediately if the consumable is cracked, bent, damaged or unusually hot.Read AlsoHow to Check Consumable Compatibility with a ToolDry vs Wet Operation: How to Choose the Correct MethodHow to Choose a Consumable for the Intended TaskHow to Choose the Correct Accessory SizeWhat Is Rotational Speed (RPM)Differences Between SDS Plus, SDS Max, and HEX SystemsRelated CategoriesConsumablesDrill Bits and Chisels for Rotary and Demolition HammersDrillsRotary HammersAngle GrindersCircular SawsNext article: How to Check Consumable Compatibility with a Tool
