Different Types of Diamond Blade Rims: Segmented, Continuous Rim & Turbo

When choosing the right diamond saw blade for cutting concrete, stone, brick, or tile, the blade’s rim type is one of the most important factors. The rim design affects cutting speed, smoothness, and durability.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three most common diamond blade rims—segmented, continuous rim, and turbo diamond blades—so you can select the best blade for your job.

1. Segmented Diamond Blades

Segmented diamond blades are designed with deep gullets (slots) around the rim. These gullets allow excellent air flow and cooling, making them perfect for dry cutting applications.

Key Benefits:

• Best for cutting concrete, brick, block, pavers, and masonry

• Fast cutting with aggressive performance

• Long lifespan when used correctly

• Can handle heavy-duty jobs

Best Uses:
Segmented blades are commonly used in construction for cutting reinforced concrete and asphalt, where speed and durability are critical.

2. Continuous Rim Diamond Blades

Continuous rim diamond blades have a smooth, unbroken rim. Unlike segmented blades, they don’t have gullets, which means they cut clean and chip-free. However, they need water cooling to prevent overheating.

Key Benefits:

• Delivers the smoothest, most precise cut

• Ideal for wet cutting applications

• Reduces edge chipping on delicate materials

Best Uses:
Continuous rim blades are perfect for ceramic tile, porcelain, marble, granite, and natural stone. Tile installers rely on them for finishing work where clean edges are essential.

3. Turbo Diamond Blades

Turbo diamond blades combine the best of segmented and continuous rim designs. They feature a serrated rim that allows for faster cutting than a continuous blade, while still providing a relatively smooth finish.

Key Benefits:

• Cuts faster than continuous rim

• Produces smoother cuts than segmented blades

• Can be used wet or dry

• Great balance between speed and precision

Best Uses:
Turbo blades are versatile and commonly used for granite, marble, tile, stone, and medium-hard concrete. They are especially popular for contractors who need a multi-purpose diamond blade.

Choosing the Right Diamond Blade Rim

• Use Segmented Blades → for rough, fast cuts in concrete, asphalt, brick, and block.

• Use Continuous Rim Blades → for smooth, chip-free cuts in tile, porcelain, granite, and marble.

• Use Turbo Blades → when you need a balance of speed and precision across different materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🔹 Which diamond blade is best for cutting concrete?

For reinforced concrete, asphalt, and masonry, a segmented diamond blade is the best choice. It provides fast cutting and can withstand heavy-duty use.

🔹 Can turbo diamond blades cut tile?

Yes. Turbo blades can cut tile, granite, and stone. They cut faster than a continuous rim blade but may leave slightly rougher edges. For the smoothest finish on delicate tile, use a continuous rim blade.

🔹 Do I need to use water with a diamond blade?

• Continuous rim blades require water to prevent overheating and ensure a smooth cut.

• Segmented and turbo blades can be used dry, but water will extend blade life and reduce dust.

🔹 What is the longest-lasting diamond blade?

Blade life depends on the material and bond type. In general:

• Harder bonds last longer on abrasive materials.

• Segmented blades typically last longer in heavy-duty concrete cutting.

• Using water always extends the blade’s lifespan.

🔹 Can one diamond blade cut everything?

No single blade is perfect for all materials. However, a turbo diamond blade is considered the best all-around option because it can cut concrete, stone, tile, and masonry with decent speed and smoothness.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a contractor cutting reinforced concrete, a mason working with brick and block, or a tile installer looking for chip-free edges, choosing the right diamond blade rim will save time, improve quality, and extend blade life.

👉 At Vortex Diamond Tools, we supply premium segmented, continuous rim, and turbo diamond blades for professional cutting applications. Contact us today to get the right blade for your next project.