Diamond is the hardest substance on earth, and using diamond to coat a blade will create a durable and highly effective saw blade. While diamond blades are impressive, they are not indestructible, so proper care should be taken to protect the blade and to protect the operator.

Care for a Diamond Blade

Whenever you are cutting extremely hard materials like steel-reinforced cement or ceramics, the friction between the saw blade and the material will create a lot of heat. Depending on how the diamonds are adhered to the blade you are using, the friction can create enough heat to melt the sinter that holds the diamonds in place. In which case, pieces of the blade can fly off and strike the operator, other people, or pieces of equipment. Allowing a small trickle of water to run over the cutting surface will help to keep the blade cool and avoid problems. 

If you are cutting tile or cement inside of a house, you may not have the option to run water over your cutting surface. In this case, you will need to extract the blade from the cut and allow it to cool frequently. Running the saw and allowing the blade to spin in open air will help to decrease the amount of time it takes to cool your blade. 

Protection for the Operator

Cutting through cement or ceramics will create a lot of dust, and there is the potential for sections of the material to fly off and get airborne. Thus, an operator should always wear protective goggles. Cement dust, in particular, can be dangerous if inhaled in that it can lead to silicosis.

Thus, an operator should always wear a respirator. When it is necessary to make cuts without water, the operator should use some sort of a vacuum system to suck up dust and help to prevent it from getting airborne. When it is possible to use water, not only will the water help to keep the blade cool, but it will help to prevent clouds of dust from enveloping the operator.

While a diamond blade makes it possible for an operator to make cuts that could not otherwise be made, it also creates some safety risks. In order to keep your equipment safe, extend the life of your blade, and prevent injury to yourself, you should always take the necessary precautions to care for your blade and keep yourself safe. For more information, talk a company like Web Granite Supplies.