Unusual Antique Diamond Saw

[Martin King 2Participant @martinking2]

Hi All,

I have been having fun fixing this lovely antique diamond cutting saw which is now almost done; just needs two new brass dop holders for the business end as they are missing.

It was in a terrible state when I got it!

It comes with a large number of new unused copper saw blades that are impregnated with diamond dust, as can be seen the one in the machine is damaged. There is a belt pulley integral to the shaft and this should run around 3000 rpm apparently yet he shaft just sits in plain carbon vee grooved “bearings”?

Here is a demo image i found showing the set up and the parts I have yet to make:

 

I cannot quite understand how the saw edge stands up to use without buckling as it is incredibly flimsy and super thin?

Any thoughts welcome.

Cheers, Martin

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

I have one of those, Martin … in less good condition than yours, and [like so many things] awaiting restoration.

They were typically used in long banks of machines, driven from overhead line-shafting.

The discs don’t buckle because they are only very lightly loaded … the ball almost renders the arm and clamp  ‘weightless’

MichaelG.

.

Edited to clarify teminology

[Chris MateParticipant @chrismate31303]

If you refer to the blade itself, I  would imagine it has to do with the speed its turning & ball ballance.

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

Not quite an instruction manual, but this is a good place to look:

https://www.gemsociety.org/article/diamond-cutting-for-hobbyists-getting-started/

MichaelG.

.

Also: https://www.capetowndiamondmuseum.org/about-diamonds/diamond-cutting-and-polishing/

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

Modern equivalent in use, in India:

https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-diamond-cutting-and-polishing-factory-india-ana-85195-43176972.html?imageid=BCF6396D-B6CD-4995-9BA3-8D36DEB76087&p=148099&pn=1&searchId=ac864ef654406410137de4f4b3253cb6&searchtype=0

MichaelG.

[Martin King 2Participant @martinking2]

Michael,

As always, a mine of information, many thanks!

You are correct about the ball, I have been playing with it; its a bit like a grown up vinyl record stylus balance!

Here is a pic of all the kit:

Cheers, Martin

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

O.K. … I’m envious !

🙂

MichaelG.

[vic neweyParticipant @vicnewey60017]

I’m joining the envious club as well

[Author]

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