Mistakes and accidents in cutting operations adversely affect the bottom line, and recognizing the causes of those mishaps can be key to maintaining the equipment and the individual. Here are some of the common problems with diamond blades and the suggested solutions.

Burning CAUSE: Insufficient coolant (water) at the cutting surface of a wet cut core bit or blade.

REMEDY: Increase the flow of water and check for proper direction of the water to the cutting surface.

CAUSE: Insufficient cooling (air).

REMEDY: Allow the blade to cool every few feet of cut by running it at full speed out-side the cut.

Worn out-of around CAUSE: Worn shaft bearings on the saw allow the blade to run eccentrically.

REMEDY: Install new bearings.

CAUSE: Blade arbor hole is damaged.

REMEDY: If the blade is in good condition, the core can be rebored.

CAUSE: Blade mounting arbor is worn or the wrong size.

REMEDY: Replace worn arbor busing or arbor shaft.

Core cracks CAUSE: Blade is too hard for the material being cut.

REMEDY: Change to a softer bond.

CAUSE: Excessive cutting pressure, jamming or twisting of the blade.

REMEDY: The saw operator should use a steady, even pressure without twisting the blade in the cut.

CAUSE: Overheating through inadequate water supply or not allowing a dry blade to cool down intermittently.

REMEDY: Use adequate water pressure on wet cutting blades and allow adequate air flow on dry blades.

-Information provided by Diamond Products

To ensure maximum work platform life, timely lubrication is a must. Here are general guidelines technicians should use.

* Base the frequency of lubrication on component operating time. A job log should be maintained to indicate usage, including hour meter readings, and to determine which lube points will require attention.

* Check oil levels and perform lubrication only when the platform is parked in the transport position on a level surface and while the oil is cold.

* Make sure the oil level is at the bottom edge of the check port on plug-type check points.

* Grease unsealed fittings until grease extrudes from the fittings. Too little lubrication can lead to shorter component life.

* Lubricate items not equipped with grease fittings, such as linkages, pins and levers, with oil weekly unless otherwise stated.

* If rust or corrosion is present, clean components thoroughly before applying lubricant.

* Replace grease fittings that are worn and will not hold the grease gun.

* Where wear pads are used, cycle the component and relubricate to ensure complete lubrication of the wearing surface.

-Information provided by Grove Manlift