ANALYSIS OF THE WEAR MECHANISM OF DIAMOND GRAINS AT DIFFERENT CUTTING SPEEDS

The aim of this study is to investigate the wear mechanism of diamond grains at different cutting speeds and determine the optimal conditions to improve the efficiency of granite processing using diamond saw blades. The study considers both cutting speed parameters and feed rate to establish optimal operating conditions that achieve high productivity with minimal tool wear and an extended tool lifespan. The research was conducted using a specialized edging machine equipped with a 600 mm diamond saw blade. The object of study was Kapustinsky granite, characterized by high hardness and a complex microstructure. During the experiment, the wear of diamond grains was measured using electron microscopy after each cutting stage. Two main feed rate options were used: 1,2 mm/rev and 1,6 mm/rev. The cutting speed varied between 20 and 45 m/s. The results of the study showed that the optimal cutting speed for achieving balanced cutting efficiency and minimal diamond grain wear is 30–35 m/s. At these speeds, effective grain renewal is ensured, maintaining the cutting ability of the tool at a sufficient level. Higher speeds (above 35 m/s) lead to intense destruction of diamond grains, an increase in the proportion of cracked and worn grains, and a decrease in productivity and tool lifespan. Additionally, speeds below 25 m/s result in insufficient grain renewal, which also reduces cutting efficiency. Based on the results, the optimal cutting speed for working with Kapustinsky granite was determined to be 30–35 m/s at a feed rate of 1,2 mm/rev. Using these conditions ensures stable grain renewal, reduces tool wear, and improves processing efficiency. Practical recommendations derived from this study allow for a 15 % reduction in tool replacement costs, improve cutting process efficiency, and extend the lifespan of diamond saw blades by 20–25 %. This will help reduce overall production costs and improve the competitiveness of the stone processing industry. The scientific novelty of this study lies in analyzing the impact of different cutting speeds on the wear pattern of diamond grains and determining optimal operating conditions to reduce energy consumption and improve the productivity of hard material processing. The recommended regimes can be applied to enhance technological processes in the stone processing industry, which is an important factor for improving economic efficiency and the quality of natural stone processing. Keywords: diamond grains, cutting speed, wear, cutting efficiency, granite processing, diamond tools, optimal conditions, stone processing industry.