Recommendation points
- Varieties of diamond wheels
- Segmental
- “Turbovolna”
- Solid edge
- Solid edge discs for fine work
- Features of selection and work with diamond discs
- How to choose a diamond blade
- Temperature and dust are major problems in diamond cutting
In this article, you will learn about what diamond discs are, the differences and similarities between them. The article will tell you how to choose the right cutting wheels for work on stone, where it is better to apply this or that type of circle. Also the article contains tips for using diamond discs.
Varieties of diamond wheels
Ultra-strong diamond crystals can cut everything that is found in everyday life and construction. The diamond disc created on their basis is adapted for continuous work, since the hard inclusions are extremely resistant to wear. Disks can be of three types.
Segmental
It is a steel disc with evenly cut sections along the outer edge. Their location is very precise, as is the distance between them. On the outer edge of the segments there is a cutting (working) diamond layer. Diameter for hand tools – from 150 to 320 mm (thickness 2–3.5 mm); for machine tools – from 180 to 600 mm (thickness 3-4 mm). Stone-cutting machines in quarries and factories can have discs with a diameter of 2 or more meters and a thickness of up to 30 mm.
Principle of operation and features of work. Diamond soldering knocks down the material at high speed, it breaks off with relatively large particles – up to 2-3 mm.
Main advantage. Cuts any inclusions, including fittings.
Where is it better to apply. Ideal for cutting lumps of stone and structural concrete – where precision is not required, but cutting speed and efficiency are required. Usually this is work on stone cladding, cutting openings, dismantling.
“Turbovolna”
In the “manual” version – disc Ø 115–320 mm with uniform segments located at an angle to the normal of the disc. Diamond segments are brazed on both sides and are 1-3 mm thick.
Operating principle. A cone-shaped edge makes a starting cut, after which the solders smoothly knock down and grind the material out of the cut gap. The impact is combined – impact and abrasive, but the impact is softened by a smooth wavy soldering. Average speed and accuracy.
Main advantage. Minimal vibration, smooth tool movement, comfortable pressure control during operation. Low heat build-up due to larger edge area.
Where is it better to apply. Artificial and natural finishing stone – ceramic and dry pressed bricks, sandstone – for exterior finishing. Cutting out large curly elements when fitting stones with a torn texture. Not recommended for reinforced concrete, as the reinforcement will not pass or deteriorate.
The combination of these two types – turbo segment discs – combine their advantages.
Solid edge
Has no edges, edges, teeth. A solid working edge with visible diamond grit is brazed onto a steel disc. For repair and construction work, circles of 115-360 mm are used (manual grinders and small cutting machines).
Operating principle. Working edges gently grind the material without creating shock loads.
Main advantage. Solid work surface cuts smoothly and precisely without chipping off the glaze.
Where is it better to apply. Solid diamond discs are used for cutting ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware. As a rule, “wet cut” is used – with water cooling. This type of cutting disc is best suited for high-end, expensive natural stone materials..
Solid edge discs for fine work
Thin diamond discs are specially designed for high-precision cutting. Their thickness is only 1.2–1.5 mm with a diameter of 125 to 350 mm. Such parameters oblige to use them only in machines in order to exclude jerks and impacts. Thin discs differ in the width of the edge, which depends on the diameter: O 125–180 – 6–8 mm; Ø 180–350 – 8–20 mm.
Advice.When choosing such a disc, keep in mind that the width of the working edge should be no less than the thickness of the element that you plan to cut. So the edge will work completely during the cut.
Basically, thin diamond discs are used in cases where it is required to make an even visible cut edge, for example, when laying natural stone or porcelain stoneware.
Features of selection and work with diamond discs
How to choose a diamond blade
Solving specific tasks.To clearly understand what kind of disk you need, you should study the possibilities of their different types, given in this article. If you have to work with different types of stone materials, you need to purchase a separate disc for each work (and in the case of tiles and porcelain stoneware – for each thickness). An attempt to use rough diamond discs on a finishing material “out of economy” is likely to result in damage to the material.
Tool capabilities.Focus only on the tool that is available or will be purchased. Almost all modern manufacturers complete the wheels with seat rings that allow them to be installed on different shaft diameters – find out when buying. The capabilities of the disc itself (maximum speed, material) are always indicated on the packaging.
What are the strongest solders?There are a lot of options for combinations of substances in raw materials for the manufacture of cutting elements. According to the assortment, they belong to the “Extra-strong” class.
Depending on the content of diamond granules, these elements have different properties, names and purposes: electrocorundum, zirconium oxide, silicon carbide, boron carbide, borazone, rhenium diboride and others. The most durable and known material obtained by this method is called win. Its strength on the Rockwell scale is 80–90 units. Discs, incisors and crowns with victorious soldering serve for decades, it is still produced today.
Temperature and dust are major problems in diamond cutting
With impact or pressure contact, the friction force of the brazing and the material increases. This leads to the formation of a high temperature – the cutting segment simply overheats and deforms, losing its quality. In inexpensive household tools with a diamond cutting function, there is often an air duct to which a vacuum cleaner is connected. This removes dust, chips and air cooling of the tool and contact points.
In order to avoid overheating, machines, machine tools and some powerful stationary tools require a more advanced liquid cooling system. They are equipped with a water supply, which removes excess temperature and binds dust. At the same time, a continuous organized flow of dirty water is formed, but for construction or production it is not a problem.
Whichever drive you choose, remember that you can only use it for its intended purpose. Considering its high cost, you should not try to cut metal with a disc over a stone – it will quickly deteriorate. Manual cutting with a grinder is a high-risk procedure, so remember about safety and use personal protective equipment.
Can you provide any recommendations or factors to consider when selecting diamond blades for stone processing?
I’m interested in purchasing diamond blades for stone processing, but I’m not sure what factors to consider while choosing. Can anyone provide some tips on how to select the right diamond blade for this purpose? What are the key features or qualities one should look for? Any recommendations on reputable brands/manufacturers? Thank you!
When choosing diamond blades for stone processing, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, consider the type of stone you’ll be working with, as different blades are designed for specific stone materials. The blade size and arbor hole size should match your machine’s specifications. Look for blades with high-quality diamonds and a strong bond to ensure durability. Opt for blades with a continuous rim for cleaner and smoother cuts, or segmented rim blades for faster cutting through harder stones. Wet or dry blades should be chosen based on your cutting method. It’s advisable to go for reputable brands like Bosch, Dewalt, or Norton, as they are known for their quality and performance. Always read customer reviews and compare prices to make an informed decision.