The bond is one of the most important components of diamond tooling. The tools are often categorized into a select few groupings like hard, medium or soft metal bond grinding tools, hybrid bond diamond tooling, and dry or wet resin bond polishing tools, etc.

Bond refers to the metal or material that holds or binds the diamond pieces to the segment. There are 4 different types of bonds, Extra Soft, Soft, Medium, and Hard.

• Extra Soft: The metallic powder in the sintered segment wears away very quickly, releasing dull diamond crystals, and exposing new abrasive crystals. For the hardest concrete surfaces.
• Soft: The metallic powder in the sintered segment wears away very quickly, releasing dull diamond crystals, and exposing new abrasive crystals. Best used for hard concrete surfaces.
• Medium: Metal bond strength between soft and hard. Most commonly used.
• Hard: The bond of metallic powder in the segment wears away slowly. Best for soft concrete surfaces.

Once you figure out the hardness of your concrete you’ll be able to figure out which bond strength you’ll need. It is always suggested that use a soft bond on hard concrete. The abrasive diamonds are exposed more quickly and efficiently so they are able to grind the surface better. If you use a hard bond on hard concrete, then the tooling will “glaze over” and won’t grind. For soft concrete, Choosing a harder bond so the diamonds will not become too exposed too quickly.

Generally, there are double segments or single segment on diamond tooling. Double segments are the “Go To” option for most jobs. Single segment is used when you’re wanting more direct pressure, whether that is because you have a light grinder and need more direct downward pressure or because the coating you’re trying to remove requires more direct down pressure to remove it. You can get double or single in rectangular or round segments. Both work well, but it’s mostly according to user preference.