Choosing the Right Blade - Thickness & Diamond Grit

Choosing the type of diamond blade is important in blade selection, but blade thickness and diamond grit play crucial roles as well.

Choosing the Best Diamond Blade Thickness

A blade’s thickness (kerf) is measured at the periphery and includes the plated diamond thickness. Depending on the diameter of the blade, there are different thickness that are available (special thickness also available upon request):

Blade Diameter Blade Thickness Available

1” to 5” 1/16” to 1/8”

6” to 8” 3/32” to 1/8”

9” to 14” 1/8” to 5/32”

16” + 5/32” or higher

There are different factors that affect the blades performance based on the size and thickness:

• Thinner blades (1/16”) trim slightly faster and produce less dust

• Thicker blades (3/32” or higher) trim slightly slower and produce slightly more dust

• With small diameter blades (1-1/2” to 4”), making straight cuts is faster with a 1/16” blade but as more side pressure is applied when making radius/curved cuts, it’s advisable to use a thicker blade (3/32”)

• Larger blade diameters 6” to 16” need to be thicker to retain their rigidity to avoid warping or bending

Choosing the Best Grit for Diamond Blades

While there are many diamond grits available, 3 in particular (35/40, 45/50. 60/70) are used in the majority of electroplated diamond blades and tools.

35/40: When speed of cut is important and a finished, smooth edge is of less importance. This grit will leave small nicks on the edge of gel coated parts (especially if they’re thin). Only recommended on blades 3/32” thick or thicker. If used on 1/16” thick blades, blade life will be greatly reduced.

45/50: This general purpose grit produces a largely nick-free finish and is recommended in 95% of all blade applications. The exceptions are gel coated or acrylic FRP laminates where a finer grit will be preferred. 45/50 grit offers a good compromise between speed of cut and finish and can also be used on 1/16” thick blades.

60/70: Recommended for trimming gel coated or acrylic FRP laminates or when a smooth, nick-free edge is important. However, blade life is reduced compared to a 45/50 grit blade.

The right combination of blade type, thickness, and grit can make a big difference in your specific trimming job. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us for help.