Diamonds are considered the hardest substance on earth. Most often, we see diamonds in different types of jewellery. But aside from using them for expensive pieces of jewellery, diamonds are valuable in many applications. Due to diamonds’ distinct chemical properties, they are usually used as an industrial abrasive and cutting tool. That is why diamonds are often incorporated in several saw blades. Hole saws, circular saw blades, and diamond jigsaw blades are examples of diamond blades used by construction workers.
When used for cutting materials, diamond is ideal for non-metallic, abrasive materials, including ceramics, stone, concrete, and other complex grind materials. However, it would not be helpful when cutting metals and steel. Whether you are making accurate cuts in fibreglass, creating holes in ceramics, or seeing concrete, having a quality diamond blade is necessary. Using a diamond blade has many benefits compared to conventional abrasive wheels or any other cutting blades used for creating accurate cuts.
How Do They Work
A circular diamond blade has three components. These are the core, the bond, and the diamond particles. The bond will be responsible for holding the diamond in its place on the core. Natural diamond or synthetic diamond can be used. The appropriate grit size of the diamond will be based on the application. Generally, for concrete and fibreglass applications, coarse grits are used. While for finishing applications on ceramics and glass, finer grits are used. A more complex bond can help in minimizing erosion of the bond. It can also help hold the diamond in place for a long period, most especially when the materials you want to cut are softer and highly abrasive, such as green concrete or asphalt. On the other hand, a softer bond can cut faster, making it perfect for cutting more complex materials, including cured concrete and granite.
Diamond blades do not work the same way as the traditional abrasive or toothed cutting blades. Rather than cutting the material, they act as a grinding wheel. A diamond blade does not tear up the material. Rather it grounds it down. This type of cutting method can give you a more accurate cut. Also, depending on the grit size that you use, there won’t be any jagged edges left. Due to its tight tolerance and accurateness, it has been regularly used in the automobile, electronic, and aeronautical industries. Having tight tolerances can help in reducing material loss and keeping the costs down.
Replating and Reusing
What makes a diamond blade different from the rest is its longevity and durability. The key to its long life is the bond. The hardness of the bond is the contrast of the hardness of the material. The key is to adjust the hardness of the bond so it can fit the material. It can extend the life of the diamond on the blade. Eventually, the time will come that the diamond will wear off. When this occurs, you have to re-plate your diamond blade. This process costs less compared to buying a brand-new diamond blade. Replating your blades can save you more time and money!
Conclusion
Knowing how a diamond blade works, what materials can be cut by it, and what it consists of can help you make the right decision. A diamond blade is one of the most valuable tools of a construction worker.