What's the Best Multipurpose Diamond Blade?
Most diamond blades are designed for cutting specific materials; some are best for cutting hard concrete or granite, while others are formulated to withstand the higher abrasion of substrates such as asphalt. If a contractor is primarily cutting the same material type day after day, they may only use one diamond blade type. But what about those who have to alternate between cutting hard and abrasive materials?
In an ideal world, they will have separate blades for each type of material and swap them over as needed.
In practice, contractors who primarily cut asphalt may not bother to change the blade if they have to cut a small amount of regular concrete, particularly if it means a trip to a builder’s merchant just to get the right blade. However, this can be highly dangerous as it can cause the blade to overheat and break up.
Likewise, if they are mostly cutting concrete they probably won’t change the blade just to cut a small amount of asphalt. There’s nothing unsafe about this; it will merely shorten the blade life.
When is a multipurpose diamond blade best?
While users such as paving contractors might only need to cut one type of material, others are regularly cutting both hard and abrasive substances. Utility companies are a good example: they may need to cut concrete paving and kerbs at the same time as asphalt roadways and pavements.
Providing separate blades for each type of material is no guarantee that they will be swapped over between materials; workers who are keen to finish a job as quickly as possible are likely to press on with whatever blade is fitted to the saw.
While it is ideal to use a blade that is specific to each material type, a multipurpose diamond blade is an excellent solution for contractors who need to cut concrete and asphalt without changing the blade.
Are all multipurpose diamond blades the same?
Take our two multipurpose diamond blades as examples. They are both professional blades that are equal in quality, but each is more suited to one application or the other. To decide which blade is the best for you, consider how much concrete versus asphalt you typically cut. This ratio will determine the best blade for you.
Best multipurpose diamond blade primarily for cutting concrete
The OTEC D18P multipurpose diamond blade is ideally suited for users who typically cut more concrete than asphalt. As a rule of thumb, you would choose the D18P if the amount of material you cut is 30% asphalt or less.
Best multipurpose diamond blade primarily for cutting asphalt
The OTEC X19P multipurpose diamond blade is the better choice for users who are mostly cutting asphalt or other abrasive materials as it is designed to better withstand abrasion.
Will multipurpose diamond blades cut all concrete?
Multipurpose diamond blades are designed to perfectly cut all normal, regular concrete. However, extra hard or old concrete (which will have hardened with age) may require a blade designed for extra hard surfaces.
If you need a blade for cutting extra hard concrete, the OTEC LT10R Super Premium Hard Materials Blade is suitable for use with angle grinders and handheld saws, while the premium quality OTEC D10P Professional Hard Materials Blade is available in a range of sizes to fit handheld and floor saws.
If you would like further information or advice, speak to a diamond blade expert. Our friendly, professional technical team can be contacted on 020 8311 1144 or via email at customersupport@cmt.co.uk. Alternatively, you speak with us on live chat.
