Segment Design

The segment design of a diamond blade has a direct impact on how fast it cuts, how clean the cut is, and how long the blade lasts. Whether you’re cutting concrete, tile, pavers, or reinforced materials, choosing the correct rim style and segment pattern makes all the difference. This guide breaks down the major rim types, segment configurations, and the best uses for each—so you get better performance and longer blade life with every cut.

Rim Type Breakdown

1. Segmented Rim

Best for: Concrete, masonry, block, brick, dry cutting
Segmented blades feature individual diamond segments with gullets between them. These gullets push air through the blade for cooling and allow dust to escape, making segmented blades ideal for tougher, abrasive materials.

Benefits:

• Fast cutting on hard or abrasive materials
• Handles dry cutting better than most blade types
• Ideal for handheld saws and walk-behind saws

 

2. Turbo Rim

Best for: Stone, tile, masonry, mixed materials
Turbo blades combine continuous material with angled or serrated edges to drive air across the surface. This results in faster cooling and smoother cuts.

Benefits:

• Cleaner edge than segmented blades
• Faster cutting than continuous rim
• Works well on natural stone, porcelain, and harder materials

3. Continuous Rim

Best for: Tile, porcelain, ceramics, glass
A continuous rim provides a smooth edge with no interruptions, making it the preferred choice for delicate materials where chip-free precision is essential. These blades perform best with water cooling.

Benefits:

• Smoothest cut quality
• Best option for wet tile saws
• Prevents chipping on porcelain and fine tile

Segment Height Comparison

Segment height determines blade lifespan and durability. Taller segments generally mean more usable diamond material.

Segment Height	Typical Lifespan	Best Use
7–10mm	Shorter life, budget-friendly	Light masonry, DIY cuts
10–12mm	Standard professional height	Concrete, block, pavers
12–15mm	Extended life, heavy duty	Cured concrete, demolition
15mm+	Premium longevity	Reinforced concrete, high-abrasion cuts

Segment Pattern Differences

Drop Segments

Best for preventing blade warping and reducing binding on deep cuts. These include a lowered center section that helps keep the blade straight under heavy load.

U-Slots

The “U” shaped gullets improve cooling and dust removal. Helpful when cutting dry or when using smaller saws with less power.

Laser-Welded Segments

Made for high-heat, heavy-duty cutting. Segments are bonded by laser, allowing them to withstand high RPMs, deep cuts, and demanding materials.

Sintered Segments

Pressed and fused with heat. Common on budget blades. Suitable for lighter cutting but not recommended for high-stress or high-heat work.

Vacuum Brazed Segments

Diamonds are brazed to the surface, creating sharp, aggressive cutting action. Great for metal, steel, rebar, and mixed demolition materials.