Concreting and Preparation

A Guide to Diamond Blades

March 16th 2020

Similar to making any purchase, when choosing the right diamond blade for your job you will want to have all the information before making your decision. There are a variety of diamond blades available meaning finding the perfect blade for the job can be difficult.


Diamond blades are available in multiple varieties, manufacturing methods, types and bond types. 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 get use of 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.

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.


Diamond blades, when chosen and utilised properly, offer their user a longer life, faster cutting, increased productivity and reduced exposure to HAV.


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 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.


Segmented

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 as mentioned. These will give the roughest cut and are best for concrete, brick and masonry.


Turbo Rim

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.


Continuous Rim

This type of blade is often referred to as a wet cut blade. Using water when cutting material 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

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.

About the Author

Lauren King

Lauren works in our Ecommerce Team, with over 6 years of experience at HSS. She brings product knowledge and is able to give her advice on the right tool for the job no matter how big or small.

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