收藏: Sintered Diamond Laps

Sintered laps will cut just as aggressively on the first facet as the last. If you haven't used sintered faceting laps before, we recommend you order one grit size larger for sintered diamond tools as compared to plated or brazed parts.Standard diamond laps have a 5mm thin layer of diamond, usually electroplated in place with nickel plating. With use, the plated thin layer breaks down and starts cutting like a finer grit. Sintered diamond faceting laps, on the other hand, have a very thick (5mm) cutting matrix. This contributes to a much longer life and steady,aggressive cutting performance.For many, a sintered lap can provide a lifetime of steady, reliable performance at a cost only 3-4 times higher than the bonded variety.

Sintered diamond laps  are an excellent choice for users seeking durability and consistent cutting performance over time, particularly in faceting. Here's a breakdown of the key points about sintered diamond laps and how they compare to standard diamond laps:

Differences Between Sintered and Plated/Brazed Laps:

Cutting Aggression:

• Sintered diamond laps: These laps provide a steady, aggressive cutting performance from the first facet to the last, thanks to their thick 5mm diamond matrix. This ensures that the lap maintains consistent cutting power throughout its lifespan.

• Plated Laps: Standard diamond laps have a thin  layer of diamond , usually electroplated with nickel. Over time, this thin layer breaks down, reducing the cutting aggression and requiring more frequent replacements.

Durability:

• Sintered diamond laps: The thick cutting matrix (5mm) in sintered diamond laps means they offer a much longer lifespan compared to Plated Laps. They can provide years of reliable service without the degradation seen in plated or brazed Laps .

• Plated Laps: Because they have a thinner diamond layer, plated Laps wear out faster, meaning you’ll need to replace them more frequently. Their lifespan is generally shorter compared to sintered diamond laps.

Consistency:

• Sintered Laps: The thick diamond matrix of sintered diamond laps ensures that they continue to cut aggressively and evenly, providing consistent results throughout their use. This makes them ideal for precision faceting where uniformity is essential.

• Plated Laps: Over time, as the plating breaks down, the lap may start to act like a finer grit, which can lead to inconsistent cutting , especially toward the end of its life.

Cost:

• Sintered Laps : While sintered diamond laps are more expensive, costing about 3-4 times more than plated Laps , their long lifespan and consistent performance can justify the investment in the long run. They are a more cost-effective option in terms of performance per use.

• Plated Laps : While initially less expensive, plated Laps wear down quickly and require replacement more often, leading to a higher cost over time if used for demanding tasks.

Recommendations for Using Sintered Laps:

• Order a Larger Grit Size: If you're switching from plated or brazed tools to sintered diamond laps, it's recommended to order one grit size larger. This accounts for the fact that sintered Laps cut more aggressively and may provide a coarser finish initially compared to plated Laps .

• Longevity and Investment: If you're looking for tools that will last a lifetime and maintain steady cutting power, sintered diamond laps are an excellent investment despite their higher initial cost.

Benefits for Faceting and Other Uses:

• Long-Term Reliability: Sintered diamond laps are great for professional faceters or anyone who requires precision and consistent cutting performance over time.

• Steady Performance: The aggressive and consistent cut of sintered diamond laps ensures that your faceting or polishing tasks will remain efficient throughout the lifespan of the lap.