Diamond blades consist of four components:
Diamond crystals
-
Diamond grit used in blades are manufactured in various grit
sizes and quality grades.
- Bonding matrix
A metal bonding matrix holds diamond crystals in place. Metal
powders such as Cobalt, Iron, Nickel, Tungsten, Bronze and other
metals are used in various combinations. The bonding matrix plays
several vital roles:
- Disperses and support the diamonds
- Provides controlled wear while allowing diamond protrusion
- Prevents diamond pull-out
- Acts as a heat sink
- Distributes impact and load as the diamond crystals grind the
cutting surface
In the cutting process, the diamonds in the metal bond grind the
material. This grinding process cuts the material and at the same
time the material wears the metal bond, which exposes diamonds to
the surface, refreshing the blade and extending its useful
life.
- Segments
The mixture of diamond crystals and bonding metal powders is hot
pressed into segments. These segments are wider than the core to
provide clearance during cutting.
These segments are specifically designed to wear at a rate
appropriate to the aggregate being out. Diamond concentration in
the segment can vary from low to very high, depending on specific
cost and application requirements.
- Steel core
The segments are attached to a premium steel alloy core.
The steel core is precision-made steel disc that has slots. The
slots (also called "gullets") provide faster cooling by allowing
water or air to flow between the segments.
Most blade cores are tensioned at the factory so the blade will
run straight at cutting speeds. Proper tension allows the blade to
remain flexible enough to bend slightly under cutting pressure and
snap back into position. An arbor hole is precisely bored into the
centre.