3. Key processing techniques for base materials
Heat treatment is the pivotal process determining the ultimate properties of the base.
Quenching: Heating steel above its critical temperature, then rapidly cooling it to induce a martensitic structure characterised by high hardness and strength.
Tempering: Steel that has undergone quenching is hard but brittle. Tempering reduces its brittleness, enhances toughness and ductility, thereby achieving balanced mechanical properties.
Stress treatment: Utilizing specialized equipment and techniques to induce uniform pre-stress within the base, enabling it to resist centrifugal forces during high-speed rotation, maintain stability, and prevent vibration.
4. Key structural characteristics of the base
The base is not a simple steel plate; its various structural designs are engineered to optimize performance.
Grooves: Positioned on the base, connecting the central bore to the outer circumference, typically spaced to correspond with the cutting head. Their primary functions include releasing thermal stresses (high temperatures generated during cutting cause the substrate to expand; these slots provide expansion space, preventing distortion or deformation from heat), reducing noise and vibration (interrupting the propagation path of vibration waves to effectively lower cutting noise), aiding heat dissipation (enhancing airflow to assist cooling), and guiding coolant (enabling more efficient flow of coolant to the cutting area).
Laser-engraved information: Key details such as brand, specifications, maximum operating speed (RPM), and rotational direction arrows are typically laser-engraved onto the base for safe usage.
Centre bore: Enables precise alignment with the machine tool spindle for torque transmission.
Keyway: Prevents the saw blade from slipping on the shaft.
5. Surface treatment of the base
Nickel plating: The most common treatment method. Its primary purpose is rust and corrosion prevention, particularly in humid environments utilising water cooling. The coating also reduces friction with flanges.
Teflon coating: Applied to certain dry-cutting blades, it provides anti-adhesive and lubricating properties, minimizing the adhesion of stone powder to the substrate.
