Asphalt Diamond Blade: A Guide to Choosing the Right One

A Concrete and Stone Supplier's Guide to Choosing the Right Asphalt Diamond Blade

Working with tough, abrasive materials like asphalt, green concrete, or soft stone can be a challenge. If you’ve ever tried to cut through these surfaces with a standard concrete blade, you know the frustration: slow cutting speeds, premature blade wear, and a blade that quickly "glazes over," rendering it useless. The secret to success isn't just about having a powerful saw—it's about pairing that saw with the right tool for the job. That’s where the specialized asphalt diamond blade comes in. 

This article, brought to you by the experts at Rocket Supply in Denver, will explain why this type of blade is the essential tool for your next project. We’ll cover what makes it unique, why it's a non-negotiable part of your toolkit, and the key factors to consider when you’re ready to buy. 

What Makes an Asphalt Blade Different? 

At a glance, an asphalt blade may look similar to a standard concrete blade, but its design is engineered for a very different purpose. The key difference lies in the blade’s bond—the metal alloy matrix that holds the diamonds in place. 

• Standard Concrete Blades typically have a hard bond. This is great for cutting hard, non-abrasive materials like cured concrete, as the hard bond holds the diamonds securely, allowing them to grind away the material effectively. 

• Asphalt Diamond Blades, however, feature a soft bond. This allows the diamonds to be released from the bond much more quickly. While this might sound counterintuitive, it’s precisely what you need. As the soft, abrasive asphalt or green concrete wears away the bond, new, sharp diamonds are constantly exposed to the cutting surface. This prevents the blade from glazing over and maintains a consistent, efficient cutting speed. 

Additionally, many high-quality asphalt blades have specialized features like undercut protection or "drop segments" on the steel core. This extra layer of protection prevents the abrasive material from wearing away the steel core of the blade, which is a common cause of premature blade failure and can be a significant safety concern. 

Why You Need a Specialized Blade for Asphalt and Abrasive Materials 

Using a regular concrete blade on asphalt is a surefire way to waste time, money, and effort. Here are a few common problems you'll encounter: 

Glazing:  

The hard bond of a standard blade will not wear away quickly enough. The diamonds will become dull and polished, causing the blade to "glaze over" and stop cutting. 

Reduced Blade Life:  

When a blade glazes, the user often pushes harder, generating excessive heat that can damage both the blade and the saw. The blade’s life is drastically shortened, forcing you to buy a replacement much sooner. 

Inefficient Cutting:  

A dull blade cuts slowly and poorly. This slows down your entire project, increases labor costs, and creates frustration on the job site. 

By choosing a specialized asphalt diamond blade, you ensure a faster, cleaner, and more efficient cut. The soft bond allows the blade to cut smoothly through abrasive materials, maintaining its edge and providing a longer, more productive lifespan. 

Key Factors in Choosing Your Asphalt Diamond Blade 

Selecting the right blade depends on your specific needs. Here's a checklist to help you make an informed decision: 

1. Blade Diameter: The blade must match the size of your saw. A larger diameter blade is needed for deep cuts, while a smaller one is suitable for more precise work. Ensure the blade's maximum RPM rating is equal to or greater than your saw’s RPM. 
   
2. Arbor Size: The arbor is the hole in the center of the blade that fits onto the saw's spindle. Common arbor sizes include 1” and 5/8”. Always verify your saw’s arbor size to ensure a perfect fit.
   
   
3. Bond Hardness: For asphalt and green concrete, always look for a blade with a soft bond. Some manufacturers label their blades for "abrasive materials" to make this clear. 
   
   
4. Wet vs. Dry Cutting: Asphalt blades are available for both wet and dry cutting. 
   
   Wet cutting is generally recommended. The water cools the blade, extends its life, and, most importantly, reduces the amount of harmful silica dust created. 
   
   Dry cutting blades are designed with a different segment configuration to allow for air cooling and are suitable for jobs where water is not an option. However, proper dust control, such as using a Dust Shroud, is essential for safety. 
   
   
5. Undercut Protection: For professionals working with highly abrasive materials, a blade with undercut protection is a wise investment. It adds a protective layer of diamond segments on the side of the blade to prevent wear on the steel core, providing a longer and safer blade life. 

The Rocket Supply Advantage: Your Denver Source for Asphalt Blades 

At Rocket Supply, we understand that having the right tools is the key to success. We're proud to be Denver’s premier supplier of high-quality concrete and stone tools and supplies. We offer a wide selection of asphalt diamond blades from leading manufacturers, ensuring you’ll find the perfect blade for any job, big or small. 

Beyond our extensive inventory, we offer: 

• Expert Advice: Our team has over 150 years of combined industry experience. We can help you choose the right blade for your specific application, ensuring optimal performance and safety. 

• Quality Products: We stock blades that are built to last, providing you with a reliable and efficient tool for every project. 

• Comprehensive Solutions: From the blade itself to the saw that powers it, we have everything you need. Check out our guide to our concrete flat saw to learn more about the equipment that pairs perfectly with these blades. And should your equipment ever need attention, we're here to help. You can learn more about our expert concrete saw repair services. 

Don’t let a worn-out or inefficient blade slow you down. The right asphalt diamond blade can make the difference between a frustrating job and a successful one. 

Visit Us for All Your Concrete and Stone Supply Needs 

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a homeowner tackling a DIY project, choosing the right tool is the first step to a great result. Stop by Rocket Supply in Denver today and let our experts help you find the perfect asphalt diamond blade for your next job.