graph of saw blade rotation speed

When talking to customers, we are often told that the rocksaw we are recommending does not have enough torque.

This is a result of the idea that a lot of torque will provide a faster cut, which is not always true. So should you go for speed or torque when selecting your rocksaw?

The answer here is simple - it depends on the type of rocksaw.

Diamond rocksaw
blade speeds

Blade diarpm
8001200
1000950
1200800
1400680
1600600
1800530
2100450
2400400
2700350
3000300

Carbide rocksaw
blade speeds (incl. grinders)

Blade diarpm
400240
600160
800120
120080
160060
200050
230040
270035
300032
330028

For cutting with a diamond rocksaw you need speed, ideally about 40-50 m/s at the tip. If you must compromise, for given power go for higher speed at the cost of torque.

Lower the requirements on torque by not cutting at full depth, but in incremental cuts, or by installing one of our computerised drivers.

For rock cutting with a carbide rock saw, you need much slower speeds - go for higher torque, typically between 2-5 m/s. No need to go faster, gain as much torque as you can get. Excessive speed can actually be detrimental to carbide pick cutting as the high speed does not allow the carbide pick to gain purchase on the matrix that holds the grains together.