Home >> Science & Nature >> Rocks & Minerals

What Type of Rock Saw Do I Want for Rough Rock?

Rock saws are the most complicated of all the various types of saws. They are mainly used for cutting through large amounts of rock, as opposed to single rocks. There are a variety of materials that make up rock saw blades. It is important to select the correct blade for the task. It is also important that only experienced persons use rock saws as they require someone with strength and endurance along with the knowledge of how the saw will react when meeting up with rough rock.

Slab Rock
- Slab rocks are rocks like agate, petrified wood and hard cherts. Although cherts are not normally rough, you can encounter rough spots when sawing them. Blades for this type of rock are thick and not made for precision. There will be wasted rock when using this type of blade, but that is not usually a concern with this type of rock since they are plentiful.
CBN Blades
- Cubic boron nitride blades are an option when it comes to cutting rough rock. Cubic boron nitride is a synthetic material that resembles the hardness of diamond, but it is not as hard a diamond blades. You will need to use a coolant when using this type of blade. The disadvantage of a CBN blade is that it can be expensive at about $45 each. Another disadvantage is that once the CBN material wears off the blade, the blade no longer cuts through rough services and has to be replaced.
Diamond Blades
- Diamond blades are the hardest available and are made to cut with precision. Diamond blades can saw through any rock type, but work their best when cutting through rough rock. Diamond blades come in a variety of thicknesses to suit your purpose. Plus, the diamond surface does not wear off, so the blades are long-lasting, even when cutting through rough rock. Diamond rock saw blades do require you to use a coolant when sawing.
Rock Saw Models
- There are many models of rock saws and all work with various types of blades. When choosing a saw, try out the size to make sure it meets your needs. You also want to be certain that the saw has variable speed options and safety devices. For cutting rough rock, you should consider a saw that has the coolant unit attached. The blade is what cuts through the rough rock, but the saw itself has to be one that you can operate easily.

Rocks & Minerals