A Guide to Diamond Blades
Contents |
[edit] What are diamond blades?
The term ‘diamond’ means that the tool is of the cleanest, safest and most efficient grade for cutting, drilling, grinding and polishing various different materials used in construction. These materials range from hard clay to asphalt.
They are made up of a high alloy steel core which is then tipped with diamond impregnated, bonded metal segments.
There is no ‘universal’ diamond blade, they are available in a range of grades and bonds which are specifically designed for different purposes. Different blades are typically used for different applications therefore it is important to be aware of the different blades and their relevant application in order to realise their full potential. Diamond blades are commonly used throughout the construction and related industries; but as they offer so many uses it can be hard to know which diamond blade to choose.
Diamond blades, when chosen and utilised properly, offer their user a longer life, faster cutting, increased productivity and reduced exposure to HAV (hand arm vibration).
[edit] What are the different types of diamond blades?
It is the segment which determines what materials and purposes the individual diamond blade is suitable for. It is the ingredients in the segment which determine its best use; it is made up with a mixture of diamond grit and metal powders. Segments will come in different depths as well as different ingredients.
[edit] Segmented diamond blade
This is the most common type of diamond blade and has individual segments which are separated by gullets and will be available in different depths. These will give the roughest cut and are best for concrete, brick and masonry.
[edit] Turbo rim diamond blade
This rim is specifically designed to cut faster in either wet or dry applications. The blade is able to cut faster due to the design of the turbo segments; it effectively cuts things such as concrete, brick and limestone.
[edit] Continuous rim diamond blade
This type of blade is often referred to as a wet cut blade. Using water when cutting allows for the water to significantly cool the blade; this allows for a longer life and less friction in the cutting zone. This rim cuts the slowest but produces the best cut. It is generally used for marble, granite and ceramic tile.
[edit] Health and safety
Diamond blades must be manufactured in line with EN 13236. This is the European standard for ‘super abrasives. It is also important when working with such equipment that the correct protective equipment be used, and workers be trained to use said tools and equipment effectively and safely.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
From Chaucer to Fawlty Towers.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
New project and cultural district described in detail.
The nature of EPCs, crticism and inaccuracies.
History, issues and redesign.
From waste recycling to energy performance the hierchy.
An introduction to WERCS and WEEE responsibilities
Dealing with 2 million tonnes of waste equipment a year.
Global BACS Market: analytics and optimisation
A BSRIA glance at building automation and control systems.
What it is and how to use it.
Types of insulating plaster by binder and insulant.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.