Tungsten Carbides Tipped (TCT) Blades for Aluminum

Benchmark Abrasives Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) Saw Blades for Cutting Non-Ferrous Metals

When it comes to metalworking and welding, precision and durability are non-negotiable. One essential tool in this process is the tungsten carbide tipped saw blade. This guide will delve into the benefits, uses, and best practices for using these impressive cutting tools.

What Are Tungsten Carbide Tipped Saw Blades?

Tungsten carbide tipped (TCT) saw blades are renowned for their robustness and longevity. Tungsten carbide, a compound consisting of tungsten and carbon, is nearly as hard as diamond and provides exceptional cutting power and resistance to wear. These blades are specifically designed to slice through metals cleanly and efficiently, making them indispensable in metalworking and welding.  Their cool, burr-free cuts provide unmatched finished surfaces.

Benefits of Using Tungsten Carbide Tipped Saw Blades

• SUPERIOR DURABILITY – Tungsten carbide is significantly harder than steel, meaning these blades last significantly longer and require less frequent replacements.
• ENHANCED CUTTING EFFICIENCY – The hard, sharp edges of tungsten carbide can cut through metal with ease, resulting in cleaner cuts and fewer burrs.
• VERSATILITY – Suitable for cutting various metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and mild steel, these blades are versatile tools for any metalworking shop.
• HEAT RESISTANCE – Tungsten carbide can withstand higher temperatures, reducing the risk of blade warping or losing its temper during intensive cutting tasks.  Handle the workpiece after completing your cut without getting burnt.
• REDUCED DOWNTIME – Longer blade life and fewer interruptions mean greater productivity and cost savings over time.

What Can You Cut with These Blades?

TCT saw blades are perfect for cutting pipes, beams, and sheet metal. Whether you are fabricating components or dismantling structures, these blades ensure precise cuts that meet rigorous specifications.  Here are some suggested cutting applications:

• Non-Ferrous Metals – cut up to 3/8” or thinner aluminum in plate, angle, grating or extruded.  Can also be used to cut other nonferrous materials up to 3/8” thick.

Benchmark TCT blade for Metal cutting are designed to cut Ferrous materials.  If you are looking to cut ferrous materials like Steel or wood, check out our other material specific pages.

TCT Blades Available at Benchmark Abrasives

Benchmark carries three categories of TCT blades, designed to match your material and machine.

1. TCT Blades for WOOD (check out the TCT Blades for wood page for more info)

2. TCT Blades for METAL (check out the TCT Blades for Metal/Steel page for more info)

3. TCT Blades for ALUMINUM - can easily pierce through thick aluminum sheets, enabling you to make precise straight cuts without overexerting yourself. It provides clean, burr-free edges for a seamless finish. This TCT circular saw blade features a wide and sharp tooth for smooth cutting performance. They are crafted using tough and tempered high-density steel, which makes them solid and durable.

These Cutting blades are ideal for cutting non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, brass, copper, bronze, and more as well as plastics, plexiglass, PVC, acrylics & fiberglass. It is designed to maximize performance on aluminum and other non-ferrous metals. We offer various types of special aluminum cutting saw blades that are suitable for aluminum, copper, brass, bronze, and most plastics.

• Sizes: 5-3/8” to 14”
• Number of Teeth: 50T, 60T, 80T, 100T, 120T
• Available kerfs: 0.079” to 0.098”

Tool Compatibility: Circular Saws, Low Horse Power Saws, Miter Saws, Worm Drive Saws, MK®  Diamond Saws, Evolution®  Metal Cutting Saws

Choosing the Right Tungsten Carbide Tipped Saw Blade

When selecting a TCT saw blade, consider the following factors:

• Blade Tooth Configuration: The number of teeth and their configuration will influence the cut quality and speed. Fine-toothed blades with lost of teeth are ideal for thin or delicate metals, providing smooth edges, while coarse-lower count toothed blades can quickly slice through thicker materials.
• Tooth grind:  Benchmark uses Triple Chip Grind (TCG) configuration on our blades.  This configuration maximizes life by sharing the chip load between teeth, allowing for a cooler cut.  TCG provides superior cutting tip toughness.
• Blade Diameter: Match the blade diameter to your specific saw for optimal performance and safety.
• Metal Type: Ensure the blade's design is suited to the metal you intend to cut.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

1. Regular Cleaning. Remove debris and buildup from the blade, using a wire brush or specialized cleaner.
2. Proper Storage. Store blades in a dry, cool place to avoid rust and other environmental damage.
3. Routine Inspection. Check for signs of wear or damage before each use to ensure safety and efficiency.  If your blade is warped it will not provide straight cuts.
4. Professional Sharpening. When blades start to dull, have them sharpened by a professional to maintain cutting precision.
5. Increase the useful life of your blade with our saw blade lubricant. The specially engineered tube wax will coat the cutting edge of your blades teeth, providing quick clog free cuts.  Faster Cuts, Sharper Teeth, Longer Blade Life!!!

Machine Brands that are compatible with Benchmark TCT Blades for Aluminum

• Bosch®
• DeWalt®
• Makita®
• Milwaukee®
• Panasonic®
• Skil®
• Hitachi®
• Ryobi®
• Evolution®
• Metal Devil®
• Porter-Cable®
• Jepson®
• Other Low Horse Power Saws

Machine Selection by Blade Size

Check out this handy chart for suggested machine brands best suited for each size of blade.

Safety

Always wear proper PPE to include (but not limited to) safety glasses, hearing protection, respirator, and hand protection.  Keep all guards in place on your machine.