What must be used to drill a hole in masonry for fastener installation?

• A. High-speed drill bit
• B. ANSI standard carbide bit
• C. Standard steel bit
• D. Cobalt drill bit

Answer: (B)

To effectively drill a hole in masonry for fastener installation, the use of an ANSI standard carbide bit is the ideal choice. Carbide bits are specifically designed to withstand the hardness and density of masonry materials such as brick, concrete, and stone. They feature a tough carbide tip that can penetrate these hard surfaces without dulling quickly, allowing for efficient drilling. The ANSI standard signifies that the bit meets established quality and performance standards, ensuring reliability and effectiveness in drilling operations.

In contrast, high-speed drill bits, while effective for softer materials like wood or metal, are not suitable for masonry due to their inability to handle the material's rigidity and toughness. Standard steel bits lack the necessary hardness and durability to drill into masonry, leading to wear and ineffective results. Cobalt drill bits, while hard and capable of drilling into metal, are also not designed for masonry applications, as they do not possess the required construction and cutting capabilities to efficiently penetrate stone or brick.

Therefore, the ANSI standard carbide bit is the correct option for drilling into masonry, as it combines the necessary hardness and standardized performance ideal for this task.