Are Hole Saw Arbors Interchangeable?

Hole saw arbors are used to provide stability and ensure accuracy when making holes using a hole bit. If you’re planning a project that requires extremely precise, smooth, clean holes, a hole saw is essential. These bits have a circular design with a jagged cutting edge, also known as teeth. As the teeth are made from tough fracture-resistant HSS bi-metal, holes can be made without using much force or pressure. Commonly used in woodworking, they can drill holes in non-ferrous metals and plastics, too. While the saw itself helps to create clean holes, the arbors play the most important role - keeping the saw in place. 

Although all hole saw arbors serve the same purpose, with the same basic design, they are not interchangeable. Arbors are designed to fit with specific types of saws and shanks. Using an arbor not made for the saw you are using means that it will not work. To help you get a better understanding of the subtle but important differences, we’ve put together a guide to hole bit arbor types and how they should be used.

Are All Hole Saw Arbors the Same?

Some of the things you’ll need to know when choosing the right type of hole saw arbor include the following:

Saw type

The first thing you’ll need to look at is the type of saw you are using. Both Standard Bi-Metal Hole Saws and Fast-Cutting Bi-Metal Hole Saws can be used with a Standard Shank Arbor. To use Bi-Metal hole bits in SDS (Slotted Drive System) drills, you will need to use an SDS Shank Arbor. If you’re using Industrial TCT Hole Saws, you will need to use Arbors for TCT Hole Saws. In order for the arbor and hole bit to work together, you will need to ensure that you’re using the right arbor for the bit.

Arbor size

The next thing you’ll need to look at is the size of the arbor. Always use arbors that are made to fit the hole bit you are using. You could end up wasting money and time if you don’t take a minute or two to double-check that you have the right sizes. You can get an idea of size guidelines at the bottom of our product pages to make it easier to choose the right arbor size for the saw you are using. 

How are Hole Bit Arbors Attached?

Now that you have a better idea of types and sizing, how are arbors attached? Here’s how you can attach your arbor once you’ve chosen the correct type and size.

1. Place the hole saw on a dry, clean surface on your workbench, making sure that there is no oil or grease on your hands or the work surface. 
2. Align the arbor and hole bit, carefully thread one end into the centre of the saw and twist until it is fully threaded onto the bit. 
3. If needed, use a wrench to tighten the arbor, so that you can prevent it from getting loose as you drill. 
4. Once it’s attached, double-check that it’s secure by turning it in different directions, then re-threading if it is still not tightly in place.
5. From there, you can start using the hole bit as soon as the arbor is in place.

We hope these tips make it easier to get the best results from your hole bit. If you’re looking for high-quality hole saw arbors, Ruwag has a selection to suit every type of saw.