Types of diamond blades: segmented, solid, and turbo

A fundamental aspect of making an informed choice is understanding what types of diamond blades are available on the market and their characteristics. The design of the cutting rim, which is the working part, directly affects the speed of work, the quality of the edge finish, and the intended use of the blade. Each type has been designed for different tasks and materials, so matching the blade to the specifics of porcelain is absolutely crucial for achieving satisfactory results.

Continuous, turbo, and segmented rim – what to choose?

Blades with a continuous (solid) rim are the best choice for cutting porcelain, especially glazed and polished tiles. Their smooth cutting edge guarantees the highest quality cut and minimizes the risk of chipping. They often require water cooling. Turbo blades have a wavy rim with notches, which represents a compromise between cutting speed and quality. They dissipate heat well, making them suitable for dry cutting. On the other hand, segmented blades, with clear gaps in the rim, are intended for fast, aggressive cutting of hard construction materials like concrete or granite. They are not recommended for porcelain due to the high risk of edge chipping.

Criteria for choosing a blade: diameter, thickness, and grit

In addition to the type of rim, there are several key technical parameters that determine the compatibility of the blade with the tool and its effectiveness. The answer to the question of which blade is optimal for cutting porcelain tiles depends on analyzing these very features. Ignoring diameter, thickness, or the quality of the diamond grit can lead not only to poor results but also to damage to the material or tool, and even dangerous situations during work.

The diameter of the blade must be strictly matched to the angle grinder or table cutter (the most common sizes are 115, 125, 230, 250 mm). The thickness of the blade affects the quality of the cut – the thinner it is, the cleaner the cut, requiring less force, but it is more prone to damage. For precision work and beveling, blades with a thickness of about 1.2-1.4 mm are recommended. The quality and concentration of diamond grit in the metal bond determine the lifespan and cutting speed. It is worthwhile to invest in blades from reputable manufacturers, which offer better performance and durability.

Cutting porcelain tiles dry or wet: which method is better?

The choice of cutting technique is fundamental to the final effect, the lifespan of the tool, and the working conditions. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision on whether to cut wet or dry should be dictated by the equipment available, the type of porcelain, and the expected quality of the finish. Understanding the differences between these approaches allows for optimizing the process and avoiding common mistakes, such as overheating the blade or dust creation.

Wet cutting, performed using table saws with a water pump, is definitely the recommended method for porcelain. Water effectively cools the blade, significantly extending its lifespan, eliminating dust, and ensuring a perfectly smooth cutting edge. This is the best solution when processing polished porcelain. Dry cutting using an angle grinder is faster and more mobile, but generates huge amounts of dust. It requires using blades specifically designed for this purpose (e.g., turbo type) and working with short sections to avoid overheating and damaging both the blade and the tile.

Safety when working with diamond blades: essential protective measures

Working with high-speed cutting tools always carries risks. Using diamond blades, especially during dry cutting, generates silica dust, which is harmful to the respiratory system, and also poses a risk of material shards. Therefore, strictly adhering to safety rules and using appropriate personal protective equipment is not a matter of choice, but an obligation for every tool operator.

Before starting work, always check the technical condition of the blade – whether it has any cracks or chips. Ensure that the maximum allowable rotational speed of the blade is not lower than the machine's rotational speed. It is essential to use a complete set of protective measures:

• Safety glasses: Protect eyes from shards of cut material and blade fragments.
• Dust mask: At least FFP2 class (preferably FFP3) to protect the respiratory tract from silica dust.
• Work gloves: Provide a better grip and protect hands from injuries.
• Hearing protection: Reduce the noise generated by the tool to a safe level.

Comparison of popular diamond blade brands available on the market

The market offers a wide range of diamond blades, from budget products to highly specialized tools for professionals. When analyzing which blade to use for cutting porcelain for the best results, it is worth paying attention to the pricing and technological positioning of individual brands. The price often reflects the quality of the diamond bond, which translates to the longevity and smooth operation of the blade. The choice of the right manufacturer depends on the scale of the project and the expected precision.

In the professional segment, brands like Rubi, Montolit, and Distar dominate, offering specialized blades dedicated to the hardest porcelain, guaranteeing the highest quality cuts, especially at 45 degrees. A tier below are manufacturers like Bosch (in the Professional series), DeWalt, and Makita, offering very good quality universal and dedicated blades, which represent an excellent compromise between price and performance. For DIY enthusiasts and smaller jobs, products from brands such as Yato, Dedra, or Graphite may suffice, offering decent quality at an affordable price.

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