What process do lubrication and cooling in drilling primarily assist with?

Lubrication and cooling during drilling primarily assist in ensuring drill bit longevity. By reducing friction and heat generated during the drilling process, lubrication helps to minimize wear and tear on the drill bit. This makes the drill bit last longer and maintain its effectiveness throughout its use. When lubrication is applied, it not only helps keep the drill bit cool but also creates a barrier that can prevent the likelihood of premature failure.

While promoting faster drilling speeds may be a byproduct of effective lubrication and cooling, it is not the primary purpose of these processes. The same applies to reducing overhead errors or improving precision of hole size; those factors are more related to the skill of the operator and the quality of the drilling equipment rather than directly linked to the lubrication and cooling processes. Therefore, the primary role of lubrication and cooling is to enhance the longevity of the drill bit, making that the most accurate answer.