If you work with a variety of construction materials on a daily basis, you need to add a diamond blade to your toolbox. If you’re not already familiar with diamond blades, these saw blades are extremely useful for cutting various types of materials. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about diamond blades and why these tools would make a great addition to your lineup.
What Is a Diamond Blade?
A diamond blade is a specific type of saw blade used in various fields, from construction to independent contracting. Diamond blades get their name from the tiny diamond particles affixed to the outside edge of the blade. These particles help diamond blades cut through tough materials that traditional blades cannot.
Parts of a Diamond Blade
A diamond blade is made up of several components. Here is a breakdown of the various parts that come together to form this abrasive blade.
The diamond crystals that manufacturers attach to these blades are typically synthetic and come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and types. These diamond varieties influence the type of cut and performance of the blade.
Diamond Edge and Metal Bond
A metal bond adheres the diamond crystals to the edge of the blade. This bond is formed by a mixture of different metals. During the grinding process, this bond slowly exposes the diamond particles to result in a clean cut. The harder the metal bond, the smaller the diamond erosion, and vice versa. Softer metal bonds are ideal for cutting harder materials because of the stronger diamond erosion. Meanwhile, harder bonds are ideal for cutting softer materials due to the less aggressive diamond erosion.
The steel core of the diamond blade is perfectly centered to allow the blade to turn. The steel core helps reduce stress on the blade through the tensioning process during manufacturing.
How Diamond Blades Work
Diamond blades don’t actually “cut” through working materials. Instead, these blades use friction to grind down hard materials and create a clean edge. The friction is created between the diamond fragments and bonding material that meets the cutting material. One thing to keep in mind while selecting and using diamond blades is the hardness of your working material. A softer bonding substance is ideal for cutting harder stones and surfaces. The softer bonding wears away to expose more diamond fragments. On the other hand, you should select a diamond blade with a harder bond when cutting softer materials. These diamonds will be exposed and intact longer than a harder cutting material.
Wet Cutting vs. Dry Cutting
Diamond blades are useful for both wet and dry cutting techniques, which are two specific cutting styles. Dry cutting is the traditional way of cutting with a diamond blade, using the friction of the abrasive diamond materials to grind away at the surface of your working material. On the other hand, wet cutting helps reduce and displace some of the heat and friction from traditional dry cutting. Wet cutting involves spraying a stream of water or another coolant along the blade to decrease its temperature. Wet cutting has several advantages, such as preventing chips and other damage to the blade and reducing the number of particles produced by the cutting process.
Materials That Diamond Blades Can Cut
Diamond saw blades specialize in cutting hard stone materials and masonry that most traditional blades can’t handle. Depending on the blade, abrasive diamond blades can cut through concrete, masonry, tile, and even some metals such as steel and iron. These saw blades also have multi-purpose applications for cutting softer materials like plastic, wood, and glass. If your blades have the right bonding materials, you can cut through a whole variety of objects. Each blade’s application will depend on the manufacturer and construction, so always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for working materials.
Maintenance Tips for Diamond Blades
Diamond blade maintenance involves regular inspections and repairs that you would schedule for many other tools. Always inspect your saw blades between uses to check for any chips, hairline fractures, or other damage to the tool. If you notice small cracks that stem from the blade’s core, you could be using the incorrect bond with your working material. For harder materials, switch to a softer bonded blade. When wet cutting, be sure to use an adequate amount of coolant to keep the blade from overheating because it can lead to cracks, chips, and other damage to the blade. Additionally, proper ventilation and airflow are important when dry cutting to prevent overheating and dust buildup.
Advantages of Using Diamond Blades
There are many advantages of using diamond blades as a contractor or manufacturer. This type of blade leaves a clean cut that other types of stone and steel-cutting blades can’t deliver. Diamond blades prevent burring, which is the rough edge created during metal-cutting processes. You can use diamond blades for both dry and wet cutting processes with various materials, which adds versatility to your workshop. Diamond blades are ideal for contractors, construction workers, metalworkers, and many other industrial fields working with assorted materials.
How To Choose a Diamond Blade
When choosing a diamond blade for your business, consider a few different factors. Consider which materials you’re currently working with and their hardness. This will help you decide whether you need a blade with a softer or harder diamond bonding material. Here at Pro Blades Outlet, we offer a wide selection of diamond blades specially designed for different cutting materials. You’ll know exactly which blades to choose for your project, and if you have any remaining questions, feel free to contact us to learn more!
We hope this guide on everything you need to know about diamond blades has helped you understand more about these blades. If you’re ready to add one of these blades to your toolbox, you can find a variety of sizes, styles, and types of diamond blades here at Pro Blades Outlet. Find a diamond blade made for cutting whatever material you’re working with today.