Saw Blade Speed Recommendations for Safe Operation

Most rock saws come set up to operate at a safe speed which is suitable for the size of blade that is fitted.  However, it is always worth while to fully understand the issue of safe operating speed as both operator safety and blade life is significantly improved when saws are run at optimal speed.
 

There are quite a few charts available on the internet which recommends a range of safe operating speeds for various sized blades.  Please use the links provided below to more fully understand the variable factors influencing optimal blade speed.

 
Generally, the faster speeds are recommended for thinner rimmed saw blades and softer material while thicker saw blades and harder material require slower speeds.
 
Links to further reading (copyright remains with the authors):
Basic Speed Guidelines - sourced from Barranca Diamond:
 
Blade Type 301
Gemking
303 Series
Continous Rim
Recommended RPM
Operating Range
in Surface Feet Per Minute
3000 - 4500 4500 - 6000
Blade Diameter Approximate Arbor Shaft
RPM Range
4" (100mm) 2860 - 4300 4300 - 5730
5" (125mm) 2290 - 3440 3440 - 4580
6" (150mm) 1910 - 2870 2870 - 3820
7" (180mm) 1640 - 2460 2460 - 3270
8" (200mm) 1430 - 2150 2150 - 2870
9" (225mm) 1270 - 1910 1910 - 2550
10" (250mm) 1150 - 1720 1720 - 2290
12" (300mm) 960 - 1430 1430 - 1910
14" (350mm) 820 - 1230 1230 - 1640
16" (400mm) 720 - 1070 1070 - 1430
18" (450mm) 640 - 960 960 - 1270
20" (500mm) 570 - 860 860 - 1150
24" (600mm) 480 - 720 720 - 960
30" (760mm) 380 - 570 570 - 760
36" (910mm) 320 - 480 480 - 640

If you need further advice, please contact us any time.