Why Cubic Boron Nitride Is Better Than Diamond for Grinding

Diamond grinding tools have always been an industrial mainstay but Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) may be a better solution in many applications. CBN grinding wheels provide the same benefits as diamond tools and even perform better in some applications.

The desirable characteristics of any abrasive include:

• Hardness

• Strength

• Abrasion resistance

• Thermal and chemical resistance

• Ability to maintain sharp cutting edges during use

Hardness is perhaps the most critical property of every abrasive. Abrasives tend to lose hardness during application as a response to very high temperatures. One of the greatest advantages to using CBN is that it maintains its hardness at room temperature and over a wide variety of temperature ranges.

About CBN

CBN is the second hardest material after synthetic diamond. The process of making CBN abrasive is similar to that of synthetic diamonds: scientists treat hexagonal boron nitride at high temperature and pressure to create cubic boron nitride and treat graphite in the same way to create diamond.

About CBN

CBN is the second hardest material after synthetic diamond. The process of making CBN abrasive is similar to that of synthetic diamonds: scientists treat hexagonal boron nitride at high temperature and pressure to create cubic boron nitride and treat graphite in the same way to create diamond.

Machinists make CBN grinding wheels by plating CBN particles on steel, using plated nickel to hold grit in place. A single layer of CBN grit applied to the surface of a metal disc can grind even the hardest surfaces and last for years.

CBN has several attractive characteristics that make it superior to diamond:

• Withstands heat, especially during high-speed applications

• Does not cause grit that can dull bits

• Stays sharp and cool because it does not react with steel

Diamonds can also react with transition metals, limiting their usefulness for grinding certain materials. Cubic boron nitride is stable and does not tend to react unfavorably with standard transition metals.

But What About Diamonds? 

Diamond super-abrasive grinding wheels do have their advantages in some applications, especially in grinding abrasive or hard materials such as aluminum oxide, ferrites, ceramics, tungsten carbide, gray and ductile iron, and carbon. These grinding wheels also have the ability to cut freely with a cool cutting action, which is handy in applications where coolants could damage materials. Diamonds will likely remain a popular choice in many grinding applications in the future but nanotechnology may propel CBN into the top position.

Nanotechnology and CBN

In January 2013 issue of Nature, a scientist from University of Chicago’s Center for Advanced Radiation Sources and his colleagues reported they had been able to make ultrahard CBN by drastically shrinking grain size. The researchers were also able to rearrange the crystals into a zigzag formation of boron and nitrogen rather than in conventional flat layers to give it super resilience.

“Now, we can make this material as hard as single crystal diamond,” says the lead scientist, Yanbin Wang. “In some ways, it’s a better tool than diamonds, especially given its high fracture toughness.”

What to Look For When Choosing A Diamond Wheel Supplier

The suppliers your company chooses can affect your business in many ways. Qualities like expert support, competitive pricing and speedy turnarounds can make significant differences in your success. Continental Diamond Tool is a world leader in the field of superabrasives for industries that include medical tool manufacturing, construction and aerospace engineering. Our small company philosophies and big company capabilities mean that you are in the hands of ethical, hardworking and capable support. Among the qualities that set us apart from the rest:

Speedy Delivery

Every day your supplies take to get to you is one that can hold up your operation. And, when you deal with another grinding tool supplier, you can wait as long as two months for your custom equipment, leading to slowdowns and delays.

We maintain an extensive inventory of raw materials so that we can complete your order fast in our in-house manufacturing facility. These allow us to supply an unlimited number of superabrasive products that fit your needs, timeline and budget. Our average shipping time is between 15 and 18 working days. We are proud of ability to create tools to order at a speed that gets you back to work as quickly as possible, saving you from expensive downtime.

Helpful Technical Support

Our commitment to you doesn't end when our product leaves the door. We have highly trained and knowledgeable staff that can help you with every phase of production, from prototypes to replacements, to improvements and enhancements. We can help you determine which tools are best for the job, how to implement strategies to make your company's work more efficient. Reach out to us for the assistance that will help you overcome obstacles and clear your way to success.

Global Outreach

Throughout the world, we offer support and custom tools to get the job done. Through innovation and commitment to customers, CDT has become the global leader in superabrasives in a wide range of industries. Our small company values, dedicated technical support and outstanding lead times mean that you can be sure that you can get the tools you need wherever you need them.

Competitive Pricing

CDT produces custom diamond wheels at competitive prices. We help people in all industries keep their costs under control to improve their bottom line and make their businesses more profitable. Our sales and manufacturing team work together to ensure that you are getting quality tools at an affordable price.

Since 1973, CDT has been committed to supplying a wide range of industries with the highest quality custom diamond tools. Contact us today to learn how we can serve your needs.

New 130,000 Sq. Ft. Manufacturing Facility Built with Customer and Employee Satisfaction In Mind

The new 130,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility on Rose Avenue in New Haven, Indiana, built by Continental Diamond Tool Corporation (CDT) accommodates new product development, growing customer demand, and increased employee amenities. 

The new space is built to improve both customer and employee satisfaction. Along with considerable state-of-the-art equipment upgrades, the new headquarters also includes an impressive glass welcoming center with overlooking guest entertaining area, a complimentary barber shop and workout facility for CDT employees, and an expanded break area with fresh food and plenty of natural light. New research and development laboratories will allow CDT to further enhance their customer’s manufacturing productivity. 

In early 2017, CDT began construction on the new manufacturing center. This Spring, CDT began transitioning departments to the new space, starting with CNC machining, office personnel, and sales. Currently 75-percent of the company is up and running in the new facility, with the final department expected to move by the end of summer. With the growth, CDT is hiring for many positions; interested persons may apply online at www.cdtusa.com/careers.  

About CDT
Founded in 1973 by Ray Viggiano, Continental Diamond Tool took shape with just two employees and 4,500 sq. ft. in New Haven, Indiana. CDT has developed into the leader for providing technically superior precision tooling to numerous industries. After multiple expansions, CDT now occupies its custom-built, state-of-the-art, 130,000 sq. ft. manufacturing center and corporate headquarters at 10511 Rose Avenue, New Haven, Indiana, USA. In addition, CDT owns rotary diamond dresser manufacturer Consort Precision Diamond in the United Kingdom, purchased in early 2018. 

CDT continues to be a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of superabrasive products. Product lines include plated, electroless plating,  metal bond, resin bond, vitrified, and CDT's own unique GL® bond diamond and CBN grinding wheels and tools, as well as diamond dressers and rolls. CDT's quality craftsmen welcome the opportunity to meet industry's most complex critical tooling needs.  

Contact
To learn more about CDT and tour their new space, please contact:
Sarah Fleek, Marketing Administrator
sarah.fleek@cdtusa.net or 260-493-1294

Visit www.cdtusa.net for more information or find us on facebook.com/ContinentalDiamondTool

Grinding Wheels in the Electronics Industry

Grinding wheels and grinding tools of all types play a huge role in the electronic industry - even in ways that many people might not realize. Metal bond grinding tools are used to create a large number of the types of products that we use and love on a daily basis. By taking a look at the types of electronics devices that these important tools help create, you can start to see just how integral of a role they play in life as we know it.

Grinding tools like diamond drills, scoring disks and superabrasive endmills are used during the creation of printed circuit boards, which are a key component to many electronic devices that we find in our homes. If you own a desktop computer, laptop computer, high definition television set or home theater system of any type, you have the advancements enabled by circuit boards to thank for the hours and hours of enjoyment that you have received from these types of devices.

The types of circuit boards that are commonly made using grinding wheels and other grinding tools in the electronics industry are called printed circuit boards. These specific types of deices support various electronic components using tracks and pads that are conductive, allowing electricity to flow from one part of the device to another. The types of printed circuit boards that can be made using grinding wheels of all types include multi-layer boards. Single sided boards, which is a printed circuit board with only one copper layer, and double sided boards, which are a type with two layers of copper, are also commonly made using grinding tools like diamond drills for maximum precision. These types of printed circuit boards are traditionally found in almost every consumer electronic product that you can purchase, except those that are so simplistic in nature that they don't need a circuit board at all.

Part of the reason why diamond drills and metal bond grinding tools are so important to the electronic industry is because of the types of materials that they are capable of processing. Diamond tools in particular are capable of processing carbide alloys, stone, ceramics, semiconductor materials, aluminum, copper, copper alloys, rubber and resin. These types of materials are all used throughout the electronics industry in varying degrees. Copper and copper alloys in particular are hugely useful to electronic devices because they are both incredibly conductive with regards to electricity and resistant to erosion. As a result, they are ideal for situations like copper wiring, like the type that is used to transmit high speed signals into a person's home from a cable television provider.

Grinding Wheels In The Medical Industry

The medical industry relies on both brand new technology and old world skills and knowledge to help keep people healthy and heal injuries. One of the devices used in medicine that truly bridges the gap between old and new is the plated diamond wheel and other diamond tools. This device can be used in a number of procedures as part of a treatment plan that includes both new and old techniques. Learn a bit more about the use of these tools in medicine and you are sure to appreciate their flexibility.

Creation of Orthotics

Today’s orthotics and implants are more advanced than ever before. Creating these custom pieces of equipment requires careful work and precise sizing. Using plated diamond wheels is one of the best ways to cut the metal and plastic pieces with the level of precision required for these devices. Do some research and you will quickly see that nearly all of these types of medical devices are created using diamond wheels of some type.

Bone Sawing

Working in the emergency room or operating room requires a steady hand and a lot of hard work. However, this work can be made much easier with the right equipment for the job. Sawing bone is something that must be done for many different procedures. Fortunately, a quality diamond plated wheel can be used to saw through the bone with minimal effort and the best possible results. A bone saw is one of the most important pieces of equipment in any high-tech medical facility diamond plated wheels are of the utmost importance

Dental Uses

Diamond plated wheels are used extensively in the creation of dental burs and other tools. Only with the best wheels can you get the best possible dental equipment. Additionally, diamond wheels are used for bone sawing in the mouth too as a way of reaching areas that require serious oral surgery.

Other Uses

These are just a few of the ways that these diamond plated wheels are used by those in the medical profession. You’ll find that many of the devices used in a modern operating room or doctor’s office are shaped and designed with the use of a grinding wheel. Without this technique, the medical procedures of today would be vastly different and likely not as effective.

Now that you better understand the different ways that diamond plated wheels and similar tools can be used in medicine, your appreciation for the products is likely enhanced. If you want to learn more, contact one of the leading diamond tool manufacturers Continental Diamond Tool. One of our experts will be happy to explain more about how diamond tools are used in medicine as well as in other industries. Plus, we can help you find the best products and solutions available from CDT saving you time and money.

The Best Grinding Tools for the Oil Industry

The grinding wheels used in petroleum engineering must be specifically developed to provide the performance needed for these applications. Common grinding applications in the oil industry include the manufacture of drill bits, gage blocks and wear parts. Superabrasives made from polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and carbide are common in this industry, especially for drill bits. Additional types of abrasives used on an oil rig include bonded abrasives and coated abrasives.

Benefits

The benefits of abrasives that have been custom developed for oil and gas applications include greater effectiveness, efficiency and tool life. Grinding tools need the latest bonds to deliver the precision needed for grinding the PCD and carbide bits used in modern drilling. These bits often use centerless wheels that offer a high cutting depth with high grind ratios, which cut costs during grinding operations. PCD abrasives are also used on tools that perform highly-efficient chamfer grinding.

Diamond Abrasives

Diamond abrasives usually refer to abrasives made with PCDs. They are most common in the manufacture of down-hole drill components such as drill bits made to gage. These bits are used in a variety of applications such as centerless, chamfer, form and surface grinding.

Bonded Abrasives

Bonded abrasives include resinoid abrasives and vitrified abrasives. Wheels that use these abrasives in the oil and gas industry can perform both precision and rough grinding applications. Components that are ground with wheels that use bonded abrasives typically have a hard face with a durable coating. These components include the following:

• Couplings

• Down hole stabilizers

• Frac pump plungers

• Pistons

• Polish rods

• Pony rods

• Reamer shoes

• Shafts

• Valves

Bonded abrasives often use proprietary bond and grain formulas to provide performance gains over traditional abrasives such as silicon carbide and aluminum oxide. These benefits include longer grind cycles and a net reduction in cost per part.

Coated Abrasives

Coated abrasives may be used in a variety of forms such as belts, discs, rolls, sheets and wheels. These products are typically composed of cloth, fiber, film and paper for applications that include rough grinding, finishing, lapping and polishing. Products that use coated abrasives can be found in virtually every segment of the oil and gas industry, including petrochemical plants, oil reserves, pipelines and rigs.

Structured abrasives are commonly used to create a consistent finish, while flexible abrasives provide excellent results in high-velocity oxygen fuel spraying applications. Coated abrasives with an agglomerate grain are often used to improve performance with non-woven products such as convolute wheels, belts and discs. Users who wish to lower their total costs for coated abrasive products should consider ceramic belts, flap discs and specialty discs.

Choosing the Right Grinding Tools for the Aerospace Industry

Abrasive technology is an important manufacturing process in many industrial sectors, including aerospace engineering. This technique requires the use of grinding wheels with coated abrasives such as diamond powder, which is extremely abrasive due to diamond's hardness. The best choice of material for bonding the abrasive material to the grinding wheel varies greatly and may need to be customized for a specific application. Diamond grinding creates surfaces with a smoother finish and sharper edges, which is often essential in aerospace research. Superabrasives provide better results in grinding operations that require greater duration, higher speed and cleaner cuts.

Hardness

The most significant factor in selecting the best abrasive material to use in a particular application is the hardness of the material being ground. The Rockwell hardness scales are the most common method of measuring hardness for these applications, especially the Rockwell C scale. This scale is commonly known as the material's RHC, which uses a 120-degree cone under a force of 150 kilogram-force to make an indention in the test material. The RHC measures hardness as a dimensionless number, with values between 20 and 100 generally considered reliable. Superabrasive grinding wheels typically become cost effective for materials with a hardness greater than 45 RHC.

Speed and Cutting

Grinding wheels have ideal ranges for operating speeds and cutting depth that primarily depend on the abrasive material. Diamond grinding wheels should operate at a surface speed between 3,000 feet and 8,000 feet per minute, such that greater speed is better for applications involving frequent interruptions or small areas of contact between the work piece and the grinding wheel. Operators should minimize the depth of the cut to create the best finish and extend the life of the work wheel. The maximum DOC for each pass depends on the particle size of the abrasive material. Abrasives with a grit size between 80 and 150 micrometers shouldn't cut more than 0.002 inches per pass, and abrasives with a grit size between 180 and 220 micrometers should be limited to 0.001 inches per pass. Grit with a size between 240 and 400 micrometers has a maximum DOC of 0.0005 inches per pass, and a 500 to 600 grit size has a maximum DOC of 0.0003 inches.

Bonding

The choice of bonding material is more complex than many of the other decisions involved in diamond grinding. The material comprising the work piece is a critical factor, as is the size of the abrasive particles. Aerospace engineers must also consider the operating speed of the grinding wheel and the type of coolant that will be used. Additional factors in selecting a bonding material include the type of bonding material and its hardness. Some grinding applications use electroplating rather than bonding to attach the abrasive material to the grinding wheel.

To find more information on which application is best for your project, contact CDT today.

The Importance of Maintaining your Grinding Wheels

To understand how important it is to dress grinding wheels, you must first understand just how grinding wheels work. A grinding wheel is an abrasive cutting tool. It rotates quickly while in use and is very similar to a saw. However, a saw blade is only sharp along the edge. A grinding wheel has small sharp grains distributed over the surface of the wheel. Dressing grinding wheels is important maintenance.

When you press another material to the grinding wheel, its surface is gradually worn away. The results range from subtle to dramatic depending on the wheel and its intended use. Grinding wheels come in different materials. The surface material of the grinding wheel will decide what items it will work on. For example, aluminum oxide wheels work well on many steels, wrought iron, annealed malleable iron, and bronzes. Silicon carbide works well on rubber and stone.

Grinding wheels come in various shapes, including cup, dish, and cylinder shapes. The shape of the wheel typically changes over time with use. When you notice that the wheel's shape is different from that initially displayed, it’s time to discuss the matter of dressing grinding wheels. You have options available to you such as diamond dressers for grinding wheels and aluminum oxide dressing sticks. Each has its own distinctive features.

Grinding wheel dresser diamond tools are an extremely hard and efficient option. Diamonds are best known for their sparkle and elegance, but they also have a durable quality that makes them ideal for dressing tools. The hard diamonds score and reshape most dressing wheels very quickly and efficiently. A diamond dresser for grinding wheels will work with nearly any material. Choose the dresser design that’s best for your desired finish and get to work returning your grinding wheel to its former glory.

Aluminum oxide dressing sticks are a good option as well. Aluminum oxide is often used to dress tools made from diamond. The diamonds are easily sharpened with aluminum oxide. If the tool you’re working with is itself diamond, opt for this type of dressing stick to keep it maintained.

Dressers come in many shapes so you can restore any type of grinding wheel easily. A chisel dresser creates a fine contour. Plunge dressers are best for a concave radius. Grit dressers have broad even faces for fast dressing on a large surface. There’s a tool for any grinding wheel so you can always keep your surfaces in top shape. Plan to use your dressing tools often and your grinding wheels will have a long life span.

CBN Grinding Wheel 101

Cubic boron nitrite grinding wheels are used for projects that require intricate attention to detail. They provide a high-quality tool that will help you produce a beautiful, well manufactured product.

What is a CBN Grinding Wheel?

A CBN wheel is made from cubic boron nitride. This material is one of the hardest materials available, second only to diamonds. The main feature of the material is that it features a high abrasion resistance and thermal conductivity that maintains its sharp cutting edges. It’s a great choice when doing advanced products that require a high attention to details.

Why Use This Type of Wheel?

CBN wheels are important for grinding HSS. This is because it's a better material for sharpening and for durability, one of the best available. Diamond is harder than CBN, but over time many people have discovered that diamond is not a suitable abrasive grain and isn’t a good choice when grinding on high speed dry wheels. Choosing to buy grinding wheels with cubic boron nitrate will offer you the durability you need, while giving you the finished product you desire.

Benefits of CBN Grinding Wheels

These types of wheels have an almost indefinite life span when they are properly cared for. Many have chosen to use these wheels instead of the normal granular wheel because of their durability. The strong nature of the wheels comes from the bonding that takes place between the grains and the supporting steel hub. Thanks to this bonding feature, the wheels can be used dry without any coolant. Only a small amount of pressure is needed to sharpen a tool. The grind is very fine and there are almost no sparks when used for sharpening, unlike similar grinding wheels. The wheel remains cooler than a conventional wheel as well, making it nearly impossible to burn the tools. Choose certified wheel suppliers when looking for a grinding wheel.

Why Buy Grinding Wheels?

Those who have used grinding wheels have seen the benefits of the strong material. The main advantages are that it doesn't heat up when used for sharpening, it provides a perfectly balanced wheel, and has a low risk of blowing up. When it comes to your projects, time, and money, these are benefits that soon become valuable.

Choose certified CBN grinding wheel suppliers when looking for a grinding wheel. You’ll save time and money when you choose a supplier that is well versed in the benefits.

The Right Tools for Every Application

It’s not the discovery and control of fire that really separated man from the other animals – it’s tool-making that truly took the human race out of caves and into civilization. Tools changed the course of human history, and today they are still at the heart of every great item made by the hand of man. When you want to make amazing products, you need truly amazing tools. Get the right abrasive grinding wheels for your metal-shaping projects and you’ve got the tools you need to make your business a success.

Certain manufacturing would never be possible without serious tools that do a tough job. We carry everything from mounted grinding wheels to plated wheels, machinery to suit any type of manufacturing project. Isn’t it time you add large company capabilities to your business’s resume?

Grinding Wheels for Maximum Productivity

If it’s maximum productivity you need, look for CBN grinding wheels. The metal bonding on these wheels creates a very tough tool that holds its shape even after hard use. They’re commonly used in wet grinding. They work well on glass, quartz, silicon, ceramics and many other materials, including optics. This offers very low-maintenance, high-quality machining.

Replating for Extended Use

Have a used grinding wheel diamond bonded tool replated for long use. Once the bond has begun to dull, send the tool back to us. On an affordable plan, it’s easy to have that tool replated so that it performs like new again. These tools have an aggressive bond to hold form even after lots of use.

Grinding Wheels for High Efficiency and Precision

Copper or phonelic resin is at the heart of resin bonded grinding wheels. Use these when you want high-efficiency equipment that works precisely and quickly. They self-sharpen, and despite the superabrasive grinding they tend to stay at low temperatures. Use these wheels to polish, sharpen or grind at will. Like bonded wheels, these tools perform well for wet and dry tasks. Use them for glass, alloys, ceramics and many other materials.

Carborundum — the trusted name in grinding wheels

Look for Carborundum grinding wheels when you want a trusted, name brand tool. It’s a well-known name in the grinding business, and their tools are available in many different sizes and types.

Get the quality superabrasive tooling you need in one week or less with our fast delivery policy. Start manufacturing like a large company at prices even small companies can afford. You need the right equipment for every job to get the right results. Start with a company that has all the right machinery. Start with technical experts at Continental Diamond Tool Corporation.

Continental Diamond Tool has acquired Consort Precision Diamond

Continental Diamond Tool Corporation (CDT), an industry leader in Diamond & CBN grinding wheels and tools, today announces their acquisition of Consort Precision Diamond Company Limited, a leading manufacturer of Rotary Diamond Dressers in the United Kingdom. You can find them exhibiting together at GrindTec 2018 this week: Hall 4,  Booth 4082.

About CDT

Continental Diamond Tool, a private company located in New Haven, Indiana, is a leading producer in the global market for superabrasive grinding wheels and custom tooling. For more than 40 years, they have specialized in the design, manufacture and application of diamond and CBN cutting and grinding products and services. Their Electroplated, Resin Bond, Metal Bond, Vitrified Bond, and CDT-exclusive Hybrid Bond products serve a wide range of industries, including medical, oil & gas, automotive, aerospace, cutting tools, power generation, wood & saw, electronics, and many others.

About Consort Precision

Consort Precision Diamond Company Ltd is a private company established in 1984 by its shareholders as a manufacturing facility specializing in the production of Rotary Diamond Dressers for niche grinding operations. Their highly accurate precision components are used predominantly in automotive, aerospace and land-based turbine engine production.

For information on Consort Precision Diamond's Rotary Diamond Dressers, please contact our Customer Service at 800-443-6629 or info@cdtusa.net and they can assist you with a quote.

What should you look for in a grinding wheel manufacturer?

When creating intricate projects that require precision, you will need a quality CBN (cubic boron nitride) grinding wheel. To make sure you are getting a product that meets your needs and will stand up to the use that is required, you need to find the right CBN Grinding Wheel Manufacturers. Not all manufacturers are created equal, so be sure to do some research before choosing where you will purchase your next wheel. Keep the following tips in mind when you are making your decision.

4 ways to identify the best grinding wheel manufacturer

When looking for a grinding wheel supplier, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Remember, your project and product need a wheel that will create a high-quality product and you need a supplier that will get you the wheel you need quickly and correctly, with no hassle.

First, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is the supplier certified?

• Do they have satisfied customers?

• What kind of reviews is the supplier getting?

• Where do the grinding wheels come from?

Getting some simple answers before you buy will help save your time and money in the long run. Abrasive suppliers offer a wide variety of products for many different kinds of grinding applications. Choosing the wrong product can cost the supplier time and money. Choosing the wrong supplier will cost you even more time and money.

Choosing the right grinding wheel

Now that you know where you are going to buy your next cubic boron nitride grinding wheel, you will need to know how to choose the right grinding wheel. To identify a  quality grinding wheel, you should consider:

• Are the abrasive grains distributed throughout the wheel?

• What is the percentage of grain and bond? The percentages should be spaced throughout the wheel. The grains do the cutting while the bond holds the grain together.

• What shape of wheel do I need? Most wheels come as a straight wheel. The grinding face is on the periphery of a straight wheel. Another variation of the straight wheel is the recessed wheel. The right grinding wheel supplier will have a knowledgeable customer service department that can assist you in finding the right wheel for your needs.

Other grinding wheel purchase considerations

The grinding wheel is only one component of a well engineered machine. The wheel, work material, and the working function all combine to create the tool needed for your job. Buying Diamond grinding wheels for carbide takes some time and attention. Be sure to do the research needed before making the investment. Choose the grinding wheel that is best suited for you needs, while taking into account all the components of the process.

Get a custom quote from an experienced supplier of cutting and grinding products now.

The Perfect Cut

Many industries call for the careful touch achieved by diamond-based tools. When you're in the market for a diamond saw blade manufacturer with whom you can build a successful relationship, make sure you go with a versatile company. You need someone who knows the ins-and-outs, not just of diamond saw manufacturing, but also of its uses and benefits. In order to understand all the advantages, you need an expert well-versed in the many uses of diamond tools.

When customers ask why they need to buy diamond saw blades above all others, versatility is generally the answer. In those industries where a perfect, polished cut is top priority, nothing does it better than diamonds. Because diamond plated and tipped saws grind rather than hack or cut, they lead to a smoother finish. For materials that leave no margin for error, such as marble and granite, composite materials, certain metals, quartz, ceramic, and fiberglass, mere cutting can ruin the finish. Always choose to buy diamond blades, as the super abrasive grinding creates a cleaner, more flawless edge.

The versatility of diamond tools continues. Be aware of the benefits of using a continuous rim diamond blade on wet and dry materials. In fact, using a diamond blade on wet or damp materials sometimes leads to a better, smoother cut. With concrete, granite, and certain kinds of marble, especially, wetting down the material is widely understood to create better results. However, when manufacturing medical tools, working with quartz or fiberglass, or dealing with carbine, a dry grind promises a look that is just as clean and smooth.

It's easy to see why it is so essential to choose a relationship with an expert company. Better still, look for manufacturers of diamond blade saws who guarantee quality work and understand the importance of quick delivery. A speedy turn-around practically ensures repeat business as everyone will be both happy and fully satisfied. It's a win/win situation for everybody. That's why it's essential to forge a solid relationship with a quality manufacturer who will get you the machines you need.

Diamond tip saw blades are the standard in many industries, especially those which depend on professional grade work with no mistakes. Whether you're making a memorial or working on the latest medical innovation, you want flawless craftsmanship created by a company that stands by its work, promises remarkable customer services in all areas, and understands how to manufacture solid, efficient diamond-based tools.

To get your custom quote, click here.

Which Blade Is Right For You?

If you're in the market for diamond sawblades, you may occasionally need some advice on exactly what you need, why these are the best choice, and where you should get them. It's important to first realize how essential it is to look for quality diamond blade manufacturer, so that you know you're getting a machine that will do exactly what you need. It's so much better to go with a company that understands the importance of quality work in a high-tech, professional setting, has an amazing customer service department, and provides quick turn-around for all products and tools. But what comes next?

Diamond blade saws are more than capable of cutting a variety of materials, so begin by thinking about your needs. For instance, do you want a saw that will work with different things or one that works best with something specific, such as stone or granite. Remember, a diamond cutting disc is excellent for cutting concrete and asphalt of all kinds, marble, ceramic, bricks, granite, carbide, quartz, optic materials, fiberglass, and many metals. With such far-reaching possibilities, diamond blades are the go-to choice in aerospace and medical engineering, construction, certain types of masonry, and stonework for statuary and memorials.

Next, remember that there's a difference between dry and wet cutting. Diamond blades grind the materials they go up against, they don't cut in the traditional sense. Grinding creates smoother, cleaner lines, so diamond saws chip far less and they're easier to control. However, with certain materials, the grinding does lead to dust. That's why those who work with stone, granite, concrete, and marble, especially, often prefer a wet cut. For work that demands a flawless finish, this is definitely one of the biggest benefits to consider.

One of the best reasons to buy diamond blades is because they're so long-lasting. The initial cost is a worth it, especially when you consider every aspect, such as the overall horsepower of the machine you intend to use, the diameters and hole sizes of the blades you choose, and the height and thickness of the segments in which you're interested. If you detail out exactly what you will need, you'll have a quality piece of equipment that you can easily use for years.

Above all, make sure you understand that you need to go with a reputable diamond blade manufacturer who knows what it's doing and does it well. A company that stands by the products it produces will always serve you better. Get a quote now

What do Scientists, Construction Workers and the Medical Industry Have in Common?

It sounds like a joke: What do scientists, construction workers, and the medical industry have in common? The answer is diamond cutting blades that let each do extraordinary jobs to make the world a better place. From shaping gemstones into dazzling creations that fit on the most slender finger to grinding through asphalt and concrete to make way for a new mall, these diamond cutting tools represent a marriage of power and precision. 

When selecting a diamond cutting blade for a particular job, there are several things you should consider. First, what type or shape of diamond saw blades will work best? The circular blade gets wide usage because it handles so many tasks with ease. It’s also available in extremely slender forms. On the other hand, specialized diamond cutting tools work better for certain jobs. For instance, working with a gemstone requires smaller tools, so bonding diamonds to a thin wire is necessary.

You also need to think carefully about the kind of bond you want for your diamond cutting tools. The bond refers to the powder metals that hold the diamond to the base, and the bond is either soft or hard. Though it might seem a bit counter-intuitive, you want a soft bond on the diamond cutting blades when you’re grinding through very tough material. The softer bond falls away more quickly, allowing new diamond edges to make frequent contact with the material you’re cutting. By creating contact with newer diamond surfaces that are sharp, the diamond saw blades make a better go of cutting up hard material. Don’t forget to consider what size diamonds you need, what concentration of diamonds you need on the blade, and their toughness. Take your cues from the material you’re cutting as you choose the right diamond cutting disc for the job.

Regardless of what kind of work you’re doing, consider whether you need to use water with your diamond cutting wheels. Water reduces dust flying into the air during grinding. It also cools the diamond saw blades and helps give these blades longevity. So, usually, it’s advisable to use diamond cutting tools wet and not dry.

When ordering a diamond cutting disc, be sure to request the correct diameter, blank thickness, arbor hole, and slots. In addition, consider adding diamond plated ribs to your blade to reduce wear and help with side cutting. Also specify the kind of edge you want, either round or square, for your diamond cutting blades. Ask about any special requests you have about tolerance and the thickness of the cut.

An Update on New Facility — Now Hiring!

Continental Diamond Tool is happy to report that construction on its new facility is progressing steadily. The building's exterior is almost complete. Finishing touches will be made to the interior of the building over the next several months, with completion slated for Spring 2018. 

CDT broke ground at their new facility in New Haven earlier this year. This expansion cost nearly $12 million. The new building will also make room for 77 additional jobs. 

The new 112,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility will be equipped with state-of-the art equipment, allowing CDT to maintain their strong growth rate, better serve their customers and potentially double their employment base.

The project includes $5.25 million in manufacturing equipment, $400,000 in research and development equipment and $100,000 in information technology equipment.

If you or someone you know if looking for a new career opportunity, CDT is now hiring for the following positions: 

CNC programmersCNC operatorsCNC set upManual MachinistsElectroplatersDraftsmen (proficient in SolidWorks)

Click here to apply.

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Resin Hybrid Grinding Wheels are 'Gold' for the Cutting Tool Industry

Last month CDT released its response to the competition's hybrid wheels to handle the extreme cutting conditions in tool grinding. Cutting Tool manufacturers have been pleasantly surprised by the results.

In a head-to-head comparison, the competitor's fluting was originally done in two passes. The CDT Hybrid Bond achieved a single pass at double the feed rate with no damage to the workpiece while achieving a 25% increase in finish.  

With equally outstanding primary and secondary grind results, the Hybrid Bond increased the primary and secondary operations by four times while continuing to produce a better finish.

The Hybrid Series for Tool & Cutter Grinding uses Advanced Bond technology, allowing for a quicker grind without losing the wheel edge. Flute from solid, regrind, gash and end work, and relief.  Cutting Tool manufacturers will find:

• Excellent precision at the highest feed rates

• Increased productivity while lowering process costs

• Superior wheel life and long dressing interval

• Withstands cutting forces from high-speed, high-temperature applications

Because the Hybrid bond is not your standard “one size fits all” but is tailored to the specific grinding application, it allows for the highest quality tool in the most efficient amount of time in the Cutting Tool industry. This level of customization is unique to CDT's newest bond. 

These one-of-a-kind properties improve the performance of the CNC Tool and Cutter Grinder in many ways:

• Free cutting action with superior form retention and surface finish

• Self sharpening bond lengthens wheel life and dressing interval

• High material removal rate with high temperature stability

• Maximum heat dissipation with low and constant power consumption

• Optimal wheel profile stability lowers costs due to wear

If it's time to replace your old conventional worn parts with high quality precision grinding wheels and tools, you should consider CDT's Hybrid Series for Tool & Cutter Grinding. Backed by more than 40 years of superior craftsmanship and expertise in this field, CDT products are made in America and generally ship in 15 days. CDT customer service techs are happy to look through the parameters of your project, make recommendations, and supply a competitive quote - call 800-443-6629 for more information.

Do Your Grinding Wheels Need A Tune Up?

t’s a fact that grinding wheels will endure wear and tear over time. Because of this, they require regular maintenance to keep them working like new, so grinding wheel dressers and dressing sticks become integral parts of the process.

Grinding wheel dressers are also known as grinding dressers or wheel dressers. Diamond dressers offer many benefits, some of which include a decreased dressing cost per piece, a constant high-precision operation, optimal dresser versatility, and fast dressing of even the most complex wheel profiles. Since different designs and applications call for different dressing tools, it’s important to work with a supplier that can help you determine which type will work best for your needs. Four of the basic types most commonly used with CNC grinders include stationary dressers, crush rolls, diamond crush rolls, and rotary dressers, all of which are used for grinding more complex shapes.

Aside from the grinding dresser itself, you may also need dressing sticks. These are stick-shapes made from a hard material, generally the same material as a dresser, but they use a stronger bonding agent. This gives them a harder composition than the grinding wheel. Properly selected grinding sticks can not only be used for dressing and truing conventional vitrified abrasive wheels, but they can improve the performance of CBN and diamond grinding wheels as well.

Fine particles will be flying off of the wheel during truing or dressing and it’s important to note that, when working with grinding sticks or any superabrasive tools, you should wear safety glasses in order to avoid eye injury. Remember to always store grinding wheel dressers and other metal tools in a dry location to avoid rust. Maintain a clean work area to cut down on the likelihood of injury and check for damaged parts before using any grinding wheel, dresser, or dressing stick.

Whether you use a CBN or diamond grinding wheel or other cutting products, having the right tools for the job is of the utmost importance. A company like Continental Diamond Tool can provide quality tools and custom manufacturing to suit your specific needs, with precision products and outstanding customer service without rival. Order products tailor-made to your project’s needs, produced by skilled technicians who can supply a finished product in as little as a week. Enjoy stellar customer service that will ensure, from start to finish, that you are getting the right product for your needs.

When the Material Gets Tough ...

When you need to cut through thick, abrasive surfaces, equip yourself with a diamond saw blade that has the power to tackle these kinds of jobs. Eliminate frustration by using the best tool for cutting through concrete, glass, marble, granite, and similar hard materials. Used extensively for shaping gems, slicing superconductors, and in construction, these diamond cutting blades offer both heft and precision.

The circular design is the most common. However, there are other kinds of diamond saw blades. Stone blocks that need cutting respond well to a grouping of diamond gang saw blades. These consist of diamond segments attached to a steel plate that has a sizable length. Band saws with diamonds typically have them placed on the teeth. Some industries get creative in developing their own tools using diamond blades. For example, diamond abrasives applied to wire become a precision tool for jewelry makers.

What makes a diamond saw blade special is its ability to grind up material and not cut it. Powder metals form the bond that holds the diamond segments to the blade. As the bonds wear down, new diamond surfaces get exposed, creating sharper angular surfaces for grinding. When deciding what type of blade to use, it’s best to select a bond that works well with the material you need to cut. For example, cutting a hard material requires a bond that gives way more quickly so that sharper diamond edges become available fast enough to grind the material. 

There are three different ways to make diamond cutting wheels. Sintering and vacuum brazing are not as effective as plating. This process allows a layer of diamond bits to work while being exposed from the bonding agent, a set-up that’s preferable to having them actually embedded in the bond.

Plating allows you to preserve your tools by making it easy to refurbish the saw blade when it’s worn out. Instead of trashing the entire saw, you merely have the blade replated. With plating, it’s possible to remove the run down layer of diamonds and apply a new one. Because diamond cutting blade are restorable in this way, they’re a wise investment for any business or individual who uses them frequently. In addition, through the electroplating process, the diamond layer holds its form for an extended period of time, giving it superior performance. Even though it’s strippable, the abrasive bond is very strong. Plated diamond cutting tools typically last a long time because you can refresh them when the blades wear out.

Superior Craftsmanship

Dense materials once proved challenging to cut. Specialty diamond blades and tools, however, have redefined every line. These items provide quality abrasions, eliminating concerns of rough edges or heavy centers. Superior craftsmanship is effortless in carbide industries, engineering fields, stone carving and more.

Diamond plated saw blades provide users with ways to effectively grind down difficult materials, such as ceramics, concrete or asphalt. Their sharp teeth, known as segments, effortlessly move against an item and peel away its uneven layers. This creates a polished effect and streamlines abrasive operations.

The potential applications of diamond plated saw blades are endless, and there are now multiple saw designs to make those applications seamless:

Circular Saw: a small disc defines this tool, with diamond-infused teeth surrounding its edges. It's known for its accuracy and ease, with hand-held or table-mounted options available. The Circular Saw is the most common option for manufacturing.

Gang Saw: multiple diamond segments shape this slim, long-bladed saw. These segments are securely mounted to the edges, delivering sharp results. The Gang Saw is typically used for initial cuts, sliding across coarse materials and polishing them before more precise tools are applied.

Band Saw: the Band Saw features a flat design, with one side fitted with industrial diamond teeth. This creates a uniform process, with all cuts consistently delivered with every pass.

Choosing to buy diamond plated saw blades allows users to discover a wealth of possibilities. Industrial diamonds adapt well to materials, especially those noted for their density. Stone, coal balls, composites, fiberglass items and more all yield to these tools. Their even edges and steady cores ensure smooth finishes for every project. These options are also long-lasting, making them ideal for constant usage.

All saws require maintenance. Specialty diamond blades and tools are no exceptions. These items battle against hard materials on a regular basis. This can easily dull the blades, causing the grains to fade. Users must, therefore, remember to clean their saws regularly with dry cloths. Be certain that no unwanted particles are present and always note the condition of the diamond segments. If they're worn they'll be ineffective. Test them often to gauge their strength.

Many materials once seemed impossible to cut. Individuals who buy diamond saw blades, however, discover that those same materials are now easily transformed. Discover the convenience, and power, of diamond blades within a wide range of manufacturing fields. Choose CDT today.