Matrix-Based Diamond Tool Selection.
The matrix is one of the prime factors when selecting which tool to use for cutting a specific material depending on how hard, or abrasive, the material is. The matrix is what decides the rate at which the metallic powders wear down and expose new diamond crystals at the surface to maintain what would be considered a sharp or effective removal edge.
For cutting hard materials, a diamond blade with a soft bond would be needed. This means the metallic powders in the segments or teeth of the diamond blade wear fast enough to release old, dull crystals; and expose new diamond at the edges to continue cutting efficiently. On the other hand, to cut a soft, abrasive material like asphalt or freshly- poured concrete, you would need to use a diamond blade with a hard bond so that the segments do not wear down prematurely, and the blade’s life is not shortened dramatically. Diamond is especially suited to cut highly-abrasive materials, such as ceramics and tiles… in addition to granite and stone.
The diamonds used in these cutting and grinding tools are synthetic or natural industrial diamonds of different grain sizes and shapes. It should be understood that all of these hard vs. soft matrix considerations don’t equate to making the choice of the proper tools a guessing game. But, you should be aware that these considerations have a very profound impact on what success you might expect when using diamond tools. The best advice is to follow the manufacturers’ recommendation and guidelines for diamond tool selection, your wholesaler, distributor or retailer can also often offer excellent guidance as well.
