The CMT 551-073X Bi-Metal Plus Hole Saw delivers a 2-7/8" (73mm) cutting diameter built for demanding metalworking and multi-material drilling applications. Constructed from 8% Cobalt bi-metal (BIM) material, this hole saw is engineered to cut through stainless steel, steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper, brass, and plastics with greater longevity than standard bi-metal tools. The right-hand rotation design and hexagonal shank interface make it a reliable choice for electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and fabricators who need consistent, clean holes in tough materials.

Key Features

• 8% Cobalt Bi-Metal (BIM) Construction - the elevated cobalt content in the tooth alloy provides 2x longer cutting life compared to standard hole saws, reducing tool change frequency during high-volume work on stainless steel and hardened steel.
• 2-7/8" (73mm) Cutting Diameter - a precise, fixed diameter delivers repeatable hole sizing for conduit, pipe fittings, and electrical box cutouts where consistent hole geometry matters.
• 45mm Cutting Depth - the generous cutting depth allows the saw to clear thick stock, multi-layer materials, and deep flanges in a single pass without repositioning.
• Right-Hand Rotation - designed for standard drill operation, this hole saw is compatible with corded drills, cordless drills, and drill presses without requiring reverse-spindle setups.
• Hexagonal Shank Interface - the hexagonal shank provides a positive, slip-resistant connection to compatible arbors, reducing cam-out and improving torque transfer during heavy-duty cuts.
• XTREME FAST Push and Lock System - compatible with Push and Lock arbors, this system allows tool-free hole saw changes in under 3 seconds, keeping production moving on the job site.
• Variable 4-6 TPI Variable Pitch Teeth with Alternate and Side-Set Configuration - the variable tooth pitch reduces vibration, minimizes chatter on thin materials, and clears chips efficiently, resulting in smoother cuts and extended tooth life across multiple materials.

Why This Product

• Contractors cutting holes in stainless steel enclosures or hardened steel panels benefit directly from the 8% Cobalt bi-metal construction - higher cobalt content means the cutting edges stay sharp longer under heat and friction, lowering cost-per-hole over time.
• The 45mm cutting depth handles thick structural members, stacked sheet materials, and deep-flange applications that shallower hole saws cannot clear in one pass, eliminating the need to flip workpieces or use extension arbors unnecessarily.
• Compatibility with the XTREME FAST Push and Lock arbor system (550-PH85 and 550-PH11) means crews can swap between hole saw sizes in seconds without wrenches, reducing downtime when multiple diameters are needed on the same job.
• The 2-7/8" (73mm) diameter is a commonly required size for electrical and plumbing rough-in work, making this saw a practical fit for trade professionals who need a single, versatile cutter capable of handling steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper, brass, and plastics.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number: 551-073X
• Brand: CMT Orange Tools
• Diameter: 2-7/8" (73mm)
• Cutting Depth: 45mm
• Blade Material: Bi-Metal (BIM) 8% Cobalt
• Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
• Shank: Hexagonal
• Tooth Pitch: Variable 4-6 TPI, alternate and side-set
• Arbor Compatibility: 550-PH85 (11/32" hex) and 550-PH11 (7/16" hex) Push and Lock arbors
• Country of Origin: Italy

Approved Applications

• Hole cutting in steel and stainless steel
• Hole cutting in cast iron
• Hole cutting in aluminum and non-ferrous metals
• Hole cutting in copper and brass
• Hole cutting in plastics
• Use with cordless drills
• Use with corded drills
• Use with drill presses