Diamond blades contain industrial-grade diamond embedded in segments or rims on their cutting edge. As the blade is used, the abrasive qualities of the material being cut (such as concrete) wears down the segment. Diamond crystals either get crushed or let loose as the metal matrix gets worn away, exposing new diamonds to continue the cutting.

The abrasive quality of the material being cut is a large factor in choosing the correct blade for a job. Harder, less abrasive materials such as cured concrete require a blade with a softer metal mix to ensure adequate erosion of the segment brings new diamond to the surface at an optimum rate.

Soft, abrasive materials such as green concrete and asphalt tend to wear down segments faster. Therefore, segments with a harder, more wear-resistant metal mix in the segment, provide longer blade life and overall better performance.

Abrasive materials tend to erode the metal core, or center, of diamond blades causing undercutting. Undercutting tends to be concentrated on part of the core that attaches to the segment. If undercutting is excessive, it can cause segment loss and damage the blade. Diamond Vantage offers 3 types of undercut protection which reduce abrasive slurry accumulation beneath the segments to provide extended blade life.

Segments come in different heights. The total segment height is not as important as the diamond depth – the portion of the segment that contains diamonds. The diamond depth combined with diamond concentration and quality determines the overall performance value of the blade.

The accompanying chart shows the effect different variables have on a diamond blade cutting speed and blade life.

What to Consider When Choosing a Diamond Blade:

•  What is the material?
•  Brick?
•  Block?
•  Combination of Brick and Block?
•  Green Concrete?
•  Cured Concrete?
•  Asphalt?
•  What is the cutting method? Wet or Dry?
•  What kind of equipment is being used?
•  High speed hand held saw?
•  Masonry table type saw?
•  Walk behind saw? (low or high H.P.)
•  Hand held power tool?
•  How deep is the cut?
•  Use proper blade diameter for depth required.(remember, a 5" cut requires a 14" blade.)
•  How big is the job?
•  Higher quality blades are more economical to use.

This troubleshooting guide may help identify, diagnose, resolve and prevent diamond blade problems. The following are samples of some of the problems you may encounter in the field along with potential causes and prevention guides to help diagnose and prevent future problems.