What are Diamond Blades?
Diamond blades are saw blades designed to cut through hard materials like concrete, asphalt and masonry. They have diamond coated edges for maximum durability and cutting performance. Available wet or dry they can be used with circular saws and angle grinders. Whether you’re doing a small DIY job or a big construction job diamond blades will get the job done.
Types of Diamond Blades
Diamond blades come in many types each designed for specific applications and materials. Diamond blades are also known as cutting discs. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right diamond blade for your job:
- Segmented Diamond Blades: Segmented rim with diamond coated segments separated by narrow slots. Good for cutting hard dense materials like granite, marble and reinforced concrete. Allows for good cooling and debris removal. Heavy duty use.
- Continuous Rim Diamond Blades: Smooth continuous rim with diamond coated edges for chip free cut. Good for cutting porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles and natural stone. Clean finish every time.
- Turbo Diamond Blades: Turbo shaped segment design for fast and efficient material removal. Good for hard materials like porcelain, hard ceramics and quartz. Ideal for tough jobs.
- Laser Welded Diamond Blades: Durable blades with laser welded segment design for strong bond between diamond segments and blade core. Good for tough materials like sandstone, granite and reinforced concrete. Long life and reliable.
Diamond Blade Features
Diamond blades have several features that make them good for cutting hard materials. Firstly their diamond coated edges are very durable and cutting performance is excellent for tough materials. The diamonds are bonded to the blade with a metal matrix for strength and stability. Diamond blades come in various grit sizes coarse, medium and fine each affects the cutting performance and life of the blade. With turbo, continuous rim and segmented blades you can choose the type that suits your cutting needs. Because of their long life diamond blades are cost effective for heavy duty cutting and reliable and value for money.
Choosing the Right Diamond Blade
Choosing the right diamond blade for your job can be confusing with so many options. Here are some things to consider:
- Material: Different diamond blades are designed for different materials, concrete, asphalt and natural stone. Make sure you choose a blade for the material you’re cutting.
- Saw: Diamond blades are for specific saws, circular saws and angle grinders. Make sure the blade you choose is for your saw.
- Cutting performance: Depending on material and saw different diamond blades have different cutting performance. Choose a blade that meets your performance needs.
- Price: Diamond blades range from £10 to £100+ depending on type and quality. Consider your budget and the job requirements when choosing.
By considering these factors you can choose the right diamond blade for best performance.
Diamond Blade Uses
Diamond blades are very versatile so are an essential tool for many applications:
- Tile Cutting: Porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, natural stone tiles. Diamond blades give you precise cuts for professional finish.
- Roof Tile Cutting: Concrete and clay roof tiles. Diamond blades make roof tile cutting easy and clean.
- Building Material Cutting: Reinforced concrete, brick and block. Diamond blades for construction jobs.
- Natural Stone Cutting: Granite, marble, sandstone. Diamond blades for smooth and precise cuts and to preserve the material.
- Abrasive Material Cutting: Diamond blades can also cut other abrasive materials like drywall, plaster and fiberglass. Versatile and efficient for many jobs.
Safety and Maintenance
Safety and maintenance is key to best performance and life of the diamond blade. Here are some tips:
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses, gloves and dust mask to protect yourself from debris and dust while cutting.
- Use Proper Cutting Technique: Maintain a steady feed rate and gentle pressure to avoid damaging the blade or the material. Proper technique will give you a clean cut and longer blade life.
- Clean the Blade: Clean the blade regularly to remove debris and prevent buildup which can affect performance and damage.
- Store the Blade: Store your diamond blades in a dry and secure place to prevent rust and damage. So they’re ready to use when you need them.
- Inspect the Blade: Check the blade for wear and damage before each use. Replace the blade if necessary for safety and cutting performance.