In “Jam Cutting,” (Fixed Cutting) the cutting head is locked in a fixed position and the material is pushed into the blade as shown in Figure 1. “Jam Cutting” with the cutting head locked in position usually provides greater efficiency than merely holding the head down.
“Jam Cutting” works well with wet diamond blades cutting some soft materials. It is less efficient overall than the “Step Cutting” method for most material, especially when using dry diamond or abrasive blades.
IMPORTANT
: Always wear proper safety equipment; wear safety glasses, safety footwear, snug-fitting cothing, hearing and head protection, and respiratory equipment where required.
How to Use “Jam Cutting” and “Step Cutting” With Diamond Blades
- To lock the head into position, tighten lever nut at back of saw or lower the cutting head to desired cutting depth, depending on the model saw you are using.
“Step Cutting” with diamond blades is done by applying more pressure to blade and making a deeper cut. Unlike “Step Cutting” with abrasive blades, “Step Cutting” with diamond blades requires only a few passes through the material.
- In cutting, clamp the material securely or hold it firmly against the conveyor cart backstop. IF THE MATERIAL IS ALLOWED TO SLIP, RESULTING SEIZURE OF THE BLADE MAY BEND THE DIAMOND BLADE CENTER OR CAUSE A RIM SECTION TO BE TWISTED OFF.
- Do not force the material or bump into the blade. WHEN NEARING COMPLETION OF THE CUT, RETARD AND SLIGHTLY HOLD BACK THE CONVEYOR CART. If this is not done, the material may be pulled into the blade so fast that excessive pressure on the rim may cause warping or twisting of the rim section.
- When a new diamond blade is broken in, make the first few cuts slowly until the blade cuts freely and easily.
- When the blade is cutting freely and easily, USE IT! As long as it cuts satisfactorily, do not dress the diamond blade or remove it from the blade shaft.
- After continuous cutting of extremely hard and dense materials, the blade may slow down and it may be necessary to “dress” the cutting edge. To do this, make a few rapid, shallow cuts using the “Step Cutting” method. If this is not sufficient, then make one or two cuts in a soft abrasive light weight block.