Chances are, you already know that there are two types of diamond blades for tiles: wet cutting diamond blades and dry cutting diamond blades. The blade you choose depends on the type of job you are doing, the machine you are putting the blade in, and the material you are cutting. Plus, you should also take into consideration your personal preferences when choosing the right blade for you. Whichever option you choose, here are some important diamond blade do's and don’ts to keep in mind to protect your investment, your project, and your personal safety.

Wet Cutting Diamond Blade Do’s

Before you begin working with your blade, it’s important to always follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s specifications, especially when it comes to blade specifications based on the material you are cutting.

Wet cutting requires continuous water flow to every side of the blade to reduce friction during operation and maintain blade life and cutting efficiency. Make sure the water flow isn’t blocked or hindered and that all fluids are at the right levels.

In addition, you should also:

• Inspect the diamond blade to see if there is any damage during shipment or from previous use. Damaged blades should not be used.
• Check the manufacturer’s guide and ensure that you are using the recommended pulley sizes and operating speeds.
• Check mounting flanges for equal diameter, flatness, and excess wear and tear. The mounting flanges should have enough space around the arbor hole.
• Periodically check the blade for any marks or cracks in the steel centre or segments. Check for excessive wear and tear under the segments as well.
• Ensure that the diamond saw blade is mounted on the right diameter blade shaft between proper blade flanges and use a wrench to securely tighten it in place.
• Ensure the saw has the right operating conditions including:
• Blade shaft bearings are free of end and radial play
• V-belts are properly tensioned and pulleys are checked for excessive wear
• Lead off adjustment is correctly set allowing the blade to travel in a straight direction
• The blade guard it is in place before operation
• Lastly, only operate the saw using adequate safety attire (glasses, helmet, shoes, and hearing protection).

Wet Cutting Diamond Blade Don’ts

• Don’t use the blade without checking that it is designed for the material you are cutting.
• Don’t use a new blade or remount a used one that has a core that is not flat or cracked. Never use damaged blades.
• Don’t use mounting flanges where the bearing surfaces are not clean or flat.
• Never force an incorrect-sized blade onto the machine. If you do, you will risk damaging the blade and the machine, and create unsafe operating conditions.
• Don’t stand in direct line of the blades during start-up or operation.

Dry Cutting Diamond Blade Do’s

Similar to wet cutting, you should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations about the specification for material and suitability of that material for dry cutting applications.

Before you begin cutting, you should:

• Inspect the diamond saw blade for any damage that could have occurred from shipment or previous use.
• Inspect the blade during use, examine core flatness, fatigue cracks, segment damage, undercutting, and damage to the arbor hole.
• Check the mounting flanges to make sure they are the correct diameter and ensure they do not have any excessive wear and tear that could compromise the project and your safety.
• Inspect for proper saw machine conditions and that the spindle bearings are void of end and radial play. You can check the manufacturer’s guide for proper maintenance conditions.
• Follow the manufacturer recommendations for the right operating speeds depending on the blade diameters.
• Maintain a firm grip of the hand-held saws while cutting.
• Wear proper safety equipment while using the dry cutter, such as safety glasses, footwear, snug clothing, hearing and head protection, and respiratory protection when needed.

Dry Cutting Diamond Blade Don’ts

• Never cut dry unless the blade is specially designed for dry cutting by the manufacturer.
• Don’t go beyond the maximum operating speed—this will prevent you from damaging the blade or causing too much friction and heat.
• Never operate the saw without using proper safety guards.
• Never use the blade to cut a material other than what is recommended by the manufacturer.
• Do not force fit the blade on any saw other than what is specified by the manufacturer.
• Don’t force the blade onto the machine blade shaft, adjust the size of the mounting hole, or over-tighten the mounting nut.
• Never stand in direct line with a diamond or abrasive blade during operation, or start-up.
• Do not try to cut more than 1 ½ inches deep per pass using dry cut blades.
• Do not make continuous, long cuts with this type of blade. Give it time to cool down by turning in the air every few minutes.
• Do not force the blade into the material to be cut. Let the blade cut at its own pace.
• Do not cut for grind using the sides of the diamond blade.
• Do not allow the blade to deflect in the cut.
• Do not use dry cut blades to make curves.

Get All the Equipment and Tools You Need at Centura

Whether you choose wet or dry cutting tools, you can find all you need at Centura Tools. We offer a variety of products including tile cutters,  large format tile tools, in-floor heating products, Schluter products, tile leveling systems, flooring products, high-end tools, professional equipment for flooring and tile installers, and more.

We stand out from our competitors because we source our tools and products from around the world to ensure our customers are getting the best international brands. Products from Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, and the U.S. fill our shelves, and we pride ourselves on offering the best prices and products on the global market.

If you are looking for something you don’t see in our store, let us know and we can source the specific items you need.  Contact us at (416) 785-3311 or visit our store to see our amazing products. Our professionals will be available to help you make the right decisions about your tiling project.