If you work in the metal fabrication industry or a related field, you likely rely on diamond cutoff blades for various cutting applications. A quality blade can make all the difference in the efficiency and precision of your work, but with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your project. Read on for helpful tips on selecting the right diamond cutoff blades.
Blade Size and RPM
The size of the blade and the RPM (revolutions per minute) of your saw are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing a diamond cutoff blade. The blade should be the proper size for the saw and the material you are cutting, and it also needs to be rated for the RPM of your saw. You can find this information on the blade packaging or by contacting the manufacturer.
A 7-inch diamond cutoff blade is a common choice for many professionals involved in metal fabrication. It is typically used with a high-speed angle grinder and can efficiently cut through materials like concrete, stone, or brick. On the other hand, a larger 14-inch blade is generally used in chop saws or stationary equipment, and it can handle tougher materials such as reinforced concrete or large metal pieces.
Blade Bonds
Diamond blade bonds play a critical role in determining the cutting performance and life span of the blade. The bond, essentially, is the metallic mixture that holds the diamond particles together in the blade. Soft and hard bonds are the most common among the variety of bond types.
Soft bond blades, for instance, are ideal for cutting hard materials such as granite, porcelain, or reinforced concrete. In these blades, the bond material wears away relatively quickly, allowing for the continuous exposure of new, sharp diamond particles. This rapid wear rate prevents the blade from becoming overly dull when cutting hard materials. However, while this ensures efficient cutting, it may lead to a shorter blade life.
On the other hand, hard bond blades are designed for cutting softer, more abrasive materials such as asphalt or green concrete. These materials can cause excessive wear on the diamond particles. A hard bond is slower to erode, thus ensuring that the diamonds are not prematurely worn or dislodged, extending the blade’s longevity. However, using a hard bond blade on hard materials can produce an overly smooth blade surface, diminishing its cutting efficiency.
High-Quality Diamond Material
When selecting the right diamond cutoff blades for your project, you must invest in quality products. Using components of lower quality is one of the common mistakes one can make with diamond cutoff blades. Notably, the quality of the diamond used in the blade greatly impacts its performance and life span. Blades with high-quality diamonds tend to last longer and make cleaner cuts. With the right diamond material, your blades will easily cut through manufacturing materials like stainless steel and more!
In addition to natural diamonds, manufacturers also use synthetic diamond materials like cubic boron nitride (CBN). CBN can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for cutting ferrous metals that generate significant heat during the cutting process. Secondly, CBN offers high hardness and abrasion resistance, translating into extended blade life. Lastly, CBN’s consistent and predictable wear rate allows for more precise control over the cutting process.
By considering size, bond type, and diamond quality, you can select a blade that delivers the precision and efficiency you need. Always follow the proper safety precautions when using any abrasive wheels and tools and remember these tips as you shop for diamond cutoff blades to ensure success.
Want More?
We hope you’re enjoying our content. For a deep dive into all things related to Habit, click here! For more helpful advice on a range of topics, explore our Success Blog now!