The Diamond wire saw cutting technique involves using different wire sizes infused with diamond abrasion to cut through fabric. Diamond being the most rigid metal, this technique can incise nearly everything softer than diamond. This attribute gives it a vast scope of applicability since practically every element is softer than diamond. The use of diamond for cutting is not a recent practice; research traces this practice back to 2500 BC, in Egypt. Advancement in synthetic diamond production has aided to revolutionize the process to avail the contemporary the diamond wire saw. Various companies offer a wide range of these saws used for multiple functions.
Types of diamond saws
Open-end diamond saw
This type of saws use thin wires making it possible to cut thinner portions. They work with a low wire speed and do not generate significant heat because of little contact pressure between the wire and sample. Additionally, the cutting wire is coiled continuously around a metallic cylinder onto which there is the release of residual heat. These saws have relatively long cutting periods, but this is immaterial since their design is for small samples. The wire creates a self-cleaning effect by constantly changing the cutting direction.
Endless diamond saw
These saws have an extremely high wire speed hence a shorter cutting period. Their usage may be cutting hard elements such as glass and ceramics. They generate heat which is removed by a liquid, mostly water. They can be hand-directed in cutting objects, and unlike other saw types, one cannot get cuts on fingers in case of accidental touching.
Uses of Diamond saws
These diamond saws have a wide array of uses and can be used on any object less strong than diamond. Some of the uses include: Large demolition projects utilize these saws to cut the various concrete pieces and structures in a demolition site. It could be a bridge that needs demolition, a dam that needs pulverization, reinforced concrete structures, columns, beams or even pillars. The saws come in handy in dismantling large steel structures in the case of decommissioning mine sites. These saws are vital in making angular cuts vertical and horizontal structures and making cuts in confined, restricted or sensitive areas. In extreme instances, their usage may be in the subsea cutting of pipelines, oil rigs, conductors and other various underwater structures. A diamond saw provides an important quality surface, especially in the cutting of construction stones. Cutting of precious metals such as gold and silver also employs this technique
Why use diamond wire cutting
The diamond wire cutting technique is particularly advantageous due to its ability to produce a minimal kerf. It translates to the generation of lesser waste, which can save a fortune when cutting precious and expensive material. This technique works with precision leaving clean, dry cuts. Correspondingly, the wire cutter enables circular incision on all sides, averting it from being pinched. This feature makes wire cutting an effective method of resisting compressive forces while cutting. Wire cutting is a clean and quiet method. Depending on the machine, there could be little to no vibrations and noise production. Therefore, one may use it in quiet environments such as schools, hospitals and commercial or residential property. This technique is relatively faster than other cutting methods; also, its power consumption is minimal. It does not jeopardize the structures surrounding the cutting area. Lastly, this procedure is suitable for cutting in a narrow surrounding that would be unmanageable with other saws.