How to choose a tile saw: blade and cut

To cut tiles, bricks, blocks and stone you need a saw with a water-cooled diamond blade. If you work on site and move the machine often, choose a lightweight model, which in the collection starts from 14.5 kg; for large slabs and continuous work you need machines with a sliding carriage, up to 100 kg, with cutting lengths of up to 155 cm. The choice depends on three figures: blade diameter, cutting length and height, and weight.

The types

• Electric bench saws: compact, with blade and water tray, such as the DC-250 Smart or the DL-125 by Rubi. They are the most common on building sites.
• Saws with sliding carriage: the workpiece rests on a carriage that slides under the blade, for straight, repeatable cuts, such as the Riga 720 by Officine Polieri.
• Bridge saws with sliding head: the blade moves over the workpiece, which stays still, for slabs and heavy materials, such as the Arca.
• Large-blade models: for thick materials, with blades that in the collection reach 360-406 mm (14-16 inches).

How to choose by job

The features to look at

Blade diameter

It ranges from 100 mm to 406 mm. It is the figure that determines how much thickness you can cut. Some machines can take two blades: for example 300 mm as standard and 350 mm as an alternative. The blade must suit the material: diamond for tiles, stone and brick.

Cutting height

From 35 to 80 mm. It is the maximum thickness that passes under the blade. Low values are enough for tiles; for blocks and bricks you need the high value.

Cutting length and diagonal cut

The cutting length ranges from 57 to 155 cm. The diagonal cut gives the maximum size of a square tile that you can cut diagonally (from 43.5 to 107.5 cm per side). If you cut large formats, look at these two figures first.

Weight and size

From 14.5 to 100 kg. A heavy machine is stable but cannot be moved easily: it needs a bench or a fixed spot. Also check the dimensions, which reach about 2 metres in length.

Speed and power supply

The blade turns at 2790 to 4000 rpm. The typical power supply is 230 V 50 Hz; some models are also available at 110 V or 60 Hz for export. If you export or work outside Italy, check the voltage.

Jolly cut

Some machines state the jolly cut thickness (from 15 to 65 mm): if you need these special cuts, check the value on the data sheet.

Common mistakes

• Choosing the blade without looking at the material: an unsuitable blade cuts badly and wears out quickly.
• Forgetting the water in the tray: water cooling protects both blade and material.
• Not checking the direction of rotation: the blade must be fitted the right way round.
• Forcing the feed: pushing the piece against the blade chips the tile. Feed slowly.
• Not cleaning the tray at the end of the day: the sludge hardens and is then difficult to remove.

Frequently asked questions

Is water always needed?

Building-site saws are usually water-cooled. Fill the tray before starting, if the machine has one.

Which blade should I fit?

A diamond blade suited to the material and to the machine's diameter. Do not exceed the maximum diameter shown on the data sheet.

Can I use it on a site power supply?

Yes, if connected to a socket protected by a residual current device (RCD). Most models are 230 V.

What diagonal cut do I need for a 60x60 tile?

A diagonal cut of at least 60 cm per side. In the collection it ranges from 43.5 to over 100 cm, so the smaller machines may not reach it: check the figure before choosing.

The Rubi, Raimondi, Officine Polieri and other brands' saws are in the Masonry saws collection: to choose the model suited to your material or for a quote, write to the AMES technicians.