When it comes to cutting various materials in the construction and manufacturing industries, diamond blades are a crucial tool. Among the various types of diamond blades available, general purpose blades are often favored for their versatility. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand and make the most out of general purpose diamond blades for concrete cutting.
What are General Purpose Diamond Blades?
General purpose diamond blades are designed to handle a variety of cutting tasks, particularly for materials like concrete, masonry block, brick, and pavers. These blades are not specialized for a single material but are engineered to perform adequately across a range of common construction materials.
Key Characteristics
- Bond Type: General purpose blades typically have a bond that is neither too hard nor too soft. This balanced bond allows the blade to cut through different materials without being overly aggressive or too slow.
- Segment Design: The segments on a general purpose blade are usually designed to handle moderate levels of hardness and abrasiveness. They may not be as efficient as material-specific blades but offer a good balance between performance and versatility.
- Gullet Size: The gaps between the segments (gullets) are crucial for slurry removal. General purpose blades often have gullets that are neither too wide nor too narrow, making them suitable for a variety of materials.
Applications and Limitations
- Suitable Materials: General purpose blades are ideal for cutting concrete, masonry block, brick, and pavers. They can also handle some softer materials like certain types of stone, but their performance may vary depending on the specific material.
- Limitations: While general purpose blades can cut a wide range of materials, they are not the best choice for materials at the extremes of the hardness spectrum. For example, they may wear out quickly when cutting abrasive materials like asphalt or critically hard materials like reinforced concrete with large aggregate.
- Asphalt: Using a general purpose blade to cut asphalt can reduce the blade's life by up to 70% compared to cutting the materials it was specified for.
- Critically Hard Materials: Cutting materials like reinforced concrete with large aggregate can cause the blade to glaze over and stop cutting effectively.
Choosing the Right General Purpose Blade
- Material Understanding: Even though general purpose blades are versatile, it’s essential to understand the material you are cutting. Knowing the hardness of the concrete and the presence of any reinforcing steel or aggregate can help you select the most appropriate blade.
- Blade Quality: A higher-quality general purpose blade will generally have a heavier steel core and superior tension, making it more durable and safer to use. This is particularly important if the blade will be used by less experienced operators.
Best Practices for Using General Purpose Diamond Blades
- Wet Cutting: Always use a wet blade while it is wet to prevent overheating and extend the blade's life. Operating a wet blade dry can cause it to burn out quickly due to friction.
- Proper Setup: Ensure the blade is correctly set up on your saw. The gaps between the segments should be adequate for slurry removal to prevent overheating.
- Aggregate Consideration: Be aware of the aggregate composition in the concrete you are cutting. Different aggregates can affect the blade's performance and longevity.
- Operator Technique: The saw operator plays a significant role in the blade's longevity. Applying minimal pressure and avoiding burying the blade too deeply can help extend its life.
Cost Considerations
- Initial vs. Long-Term Cost: While general purpose blades might seem like a cost-effective option initially, they may not offer the best value in the long run, especially for heavy users. Material-specific blades, although more expensive upfront, often provide a lower cost per foot cut and longer blade life.
General purpose diamond blades are a valuable tool for any construction or manufacturing operation that requires cutting a variety of materials. By understanding their characteristics, applications, and limitations, you can maximize their performance and extend their lifespan. Always choose a high-quality blade, follow best practices, and consider the specific material you are cutting to get the most out of your general purpose diamond blade.