From a tile cutter to a stone-cutting machine: what and how to saw granite

Granite is one of the strongest and most durable natural stones, valued not only for its rich texture and beauty, but also for its exceptional resistance to loads, temperature fluctuations, and wear. These qualities make it in demand in construction and finishing; however, the very hardness of granite turns its processing into a difficult task. To neatly saw such a hard material, diamond blades for granite are used, because diamond is the hardest mineral in nature. But it is important to understand: not every disc is suitable for this work. The choice of tool directly depends on the equipment used and on the tasks facing the craftsman.

Equipment for cutting granite

Three main types of power tools and machines are used for processing granite:

Tile cutter

• Although this machine was originally created for cutting tile, many models cope perfectly with granite up to 20–30 mm thick and up to 1200 mm long.

• Discs with a diameter of 180–250 mm are used.

• Coolant feed is mandatory — without it the disc overheats and will quickly fail.

• To achieve a neat cut without chipping, craftsmen use a pendulum technique: the workpiece is cut gradually, for example, by 3–5 mm per pass.

Stone-cutting machine

• This is specialized equipment designed specifically for working with stone.

• It operates with discs 300–400 mm in diameter.

• The machine allows you to immediately cut massive workpieces up to 70 mm thick and more.

• The cut is performed in one pass, since the carriage with the material moves into the rotating disc.

• Some models are equipped with a pendulum-cut function for precise processing.

Angle grinder

• A compact and universal tool for dry cutting.

• Discs — 125 and 230 mm, with a cutting depth up to 70 mm.

• The cut is performed manually, which requires experience: too fast and deep a pass can overheat the disc.

• The grinder makes it possible to work in hard-to-reach places and perform shaped cuts.

Interesting fact: modern professional tile cutters and stone-cutting machines are equipped with laser marking and a water-supply system with filtration. This makes it possible to significantly increase the service life of the discs.

Types of diamond discs for granite

The choice of disc depends on the result required: finishing or rough cut, speed of work or maximum neatness. The main varieties:

Continuous (crown)

• Has an even diamond rim.

• Operates exclusively in wet mode.

• Distinct for an ideally clean cut — without chips and irregularities.

• Minus — low cutting speed compared to other types.

Turbo

• Has a continuous rim with wavy grooves for cooling.

• Suitable for both wet and dry cutting.

• Cuts faster, but small chips are possible on the edge.

• Optimal for most construction tasks where speed is important.

Segmented

• The rim consists of separate segments separated by gaps.

• Provides excellent cooling and high cutting speed.

• Used for rough work — leaves noticeable chips.

• Differs by increased service life and can work to a depth of several centimeters.

Interesting fact: the service life of a diamond disc depends not only on the type and manufacturer, but also on the machine’s RPM. For example, using a disc at excessively high RPM leads to accelerated wear and loss of the diamond layer.

What to pay attention to when choosing a diamond disc for cutting granite

Choosing a disc for granite is not only a matter of convenience, but also a guarantee of safety, cut quality, and tool durability. To avoid a mistake, consider several key factors.

Marking and technical characteristics

• Maximum RPM. If the disc rotates faster than specified by the manufacturer, there is a risk of tool destruction and injury.

• Direction of rotation. Indicated by an arrow on the disc body. Incorrect installation leads to ineffective cutting, faster wear of the diamond layer, and increased vibration.

• Operating mode (dry/wet).

  • Dry — for dry cutting (usually segmented or turbo); plus: mobility; minus: heavy dust and rapid heating.

  • Wet — for work with water; lasts longer and gives a neater cut.

• Tip: always check for factory markings and certificates — a quality indicator. On counterfeits, the marking often rubs off or is applied unevenly.

Size and compatibility with equipment

• Tile cutter: 180–250 mm.

• Stone-cutting machine: 300–400 mm.

• Angle grinder: 125 and 230 mm.

Remember:

• Installing a disc of a larger diameter than the tool allows is strictly prohibited — it is dangerous.

• A disc that is too small reduces cutting depth and slows down the work.

• Fact: sometimes craftsmen put a large disc on a grinder for cutting depth. This risks breakage and serious injury, since hand tools spin faster than what large discs are rated for.

Type of cut and edge quality requirements

• Finishing cut (cladding, facades, adjusting slabs): choose continuous (crown) or turbo — even cut with minimal chips.

• Rough cut (blanks, trimming large volumes): segmented — faster on hard material but leaves chips.

• Tip: to combine speed and quality, choose premium turbo discs — faster than continuous yet still accurate.

Cooling and dust removal

• Wet cutting: water reduces friction, cools the disc, and carries away dust → longer life and higher cut quality; especially recommended for expensive facing granite.

• Dry cutting: when water connection is impossible — take breaks to avoid overheating and damaging the diamond layer.

• Interesting fact: water supply cuts dust levels by dozens of times; granite dust contains quartz harmful to the respiratory system.

Tips and life hacks for cutting granite

Preparation of the material

• Marking: use a marker or carpenter’s pencil; for long cuts — a metal ruler or laser level.

• Fixing: secure the slab/workpiece; on machines use carriages and stops, for hand cutting use clamps.

Correct choice of mode

• Don’t rush — better several passes than one overloaded cut.

• Pendulum method: for thick granite, 5–10 mm steps reduce load and overheating.

• Cooling: use water whenever possible — the disc will last 2–3× longer.

• Life hack: without water supply, occasionally spray the workpiece (use caution with electricity).

Working with an angle grinder

• Always use a guard — fragments fly at bullet speed if the disc fails.

• Let the tool’s own weight feed the disc; avoid excessive pressure.

• In dry cutting, take 20–30 s breaks to prevent overheating.

• Life hack: guide the grinder toward yourself for a more controllable line.

Minimizing chips

• For a clean cut, use continuous or turbo discs in wet mode.

• Start from the face side so any chips remain on the back.

• After cutting, refine with a sanding sponge or diamond polishing pad (“turtle”).

Safety

• Use a respirator for dry cutting — granite dust contains silica.

• Glasses and gloves are mandatory.

• Work only with serviceable tools — play/runout causes chips immediately.

Saving the disc’s resource

• Run at nominal RPM — don’t exceed the specified speed.

• If cutting worsens, dress the disc with a few cuts in soft abrasive (e.g., sand-lime brick) to refresh the diamond layer.

• Use discs specifically for granite (diamond blades for granite). Universal “for stone” discs last less and cut worse.

Result

Although granite is one of the hardest materials, a properly selected diamond disc makes its processing efficient and safe. For precise and clean cuts, choose continuous or turbo discs; for large volumes and rough work — segmented ones. The main rule is to use the disc as intended, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and not skimp on cooling.
Remember: a quality diamond disc, when used correctly, can last several times longer than cheap counterparts and ensure a perfect result when working with stone.