News

When it comes to cutting concrete, granite, stone, and masonry materials, using the right diamond saw blade is critical for performance, safety, and cost efficiency. At Supreme Diamond Tools, we want to help contractors, masons, and construction professionals understand the key factors that affect blade performance and lifespan.

This guide covers the most important technical aspects of diamond blades—including aggregate hardness, blade speed, cutting depth, coolant requirements, and horsepower considerations.

1. Aggregate Hardness (Mohs Scale)

The Mohs scale measures the hardness of aggregates and directly affects cutting speed and blade wear.

Tip: The harder the aggregate, the slower the blade will cut. Choose the right bond hardness of the diamond blade to balance cutting speed and blade life.

2. Aggregate Size

The size of aggregates in concrete also impacts cutting efficiency:

• Large aggregates (1–1/2") = slower cutting speed

• Small aggregates (pea gravel, 3/8") = faster cutting speed

3. Steel Reinforcement (Rebar)

Reinforced concrete presents a tougher challenge for diamond blades.

• Light Rebar: Wire mesh, single mat

• Medium Rebar: #4 rebar every 12" on center, single mat mesh

• Heavy Rebar: #4 rebar every 12" on center, double mat

Pro Tip: When cutting through rebar, reduce blade speed, apply steady pressure, and decrease water flow for best results.

4. Operating Speed (RPM)

Every diamond saw blade is rated for a maximum safe speed (RPM). Exceeding this can cause segment loss, overheating, or even dangerous accidents.

Recommended RPM examples:

• 4" blade → Max 15,000 RPM

• 7" blade → Max 8,730 RPM

• 14" blade → Max 4,365 RPM

Rule of Thumb:

• For softer, abrasive materials, use higher speed + more water.

• For harder materials, use slightly slower speeds for better blade control and longer life.

⚠ Warning: NEVER exceed the maximum RPM stamped on the blade. Doing so risks serious injury.

5. Depth of Cut

The cutting depth depends on blade diameter and saw type. For example:

• Concrete Saw Blades:

  • 12" blade → 3–5/8" depth

  • 14" blade → 4–5/8" depth

  • 24" blade → 9–5/8" depth

• Tile Saw Blades:

  • 4" blade → 3/4" depth

  • 7" blade → 2–1/4" depth

  • 10" blade → 3–3/4" depth

Maintaining a forward speed of 8–10 feet per minute (FPM) is the most cost-effective cutting speed.

6. Coolant & Water Flow

Proper cooling is essential for extending blade life. Without enough water, blades overheat and segments may crack or detach.

• Recommended Water Flow: 1/2 to 3 gallons per minute

• Max Water Flow: 5 gallons per minute

✅ Adequate water prevents undercutting, removes debris (swarf), and reduces dust.

7. Horsepower Matching

Matching the blade to your saw’s horsepower is vital:

• Low HP saw with high HP blade → slow cutting, long blade life

• High HP saw with low HP blade → fast cutting, very short blade life

Typical flat saws range from 8–75 horsepower. Always tell your distributor what HP your saw has before buying blades.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right diamond saw blade depends on multiple factors: aggregate hardness, rebar content, blade speed, coolant, and machine horsepower. By understanding these variables, you’ll achieve faster cutting speeds, longer blade life, and lower overall costs.

At Supreme Diamond Tools, we provide a full range of professional diamond blades for concrete, stone, granite, and masonry cutting—engineered for durability, precision, and safety.

👉 Visit us at www.supremediamondtools.com to explore our complete product line.