Safe Rock Cutting
Why Glue Up?
Just Our Opinion…
- It Saves Time In The Long Run
- It Provides Blade And Saw Component Insurance By Increasing Material Stability
- It Gives The Ability To Align And Cut More Precise Slabs From The First To The Very Last Part Of Rock, Maximizing Material Usage
At CigarBoxRock Lapidary, we wet test all of the vintage saws that we renew. Virtually all rock, big or small is “Glued Up” in our cutting room.
Our vintage USA renewed saws have gone through a three month process prior to wet testing and we cannot risk a rock coming loose. Not mentioning blade damage, when a rock shifts it causes huge stress that can affect many components within diamond lapidary saws.
Please See Photo Illustrations
- In our shop every rock is “Glued Up” with “JB Weld Part# 8280.” There are several adhesives that work but non quick set “JB Weld” has never failed us and we often “Glue Up” some quite large and heavy chunks.
- Wait overnight for the original “JB Weld Part# 8280” to fully set.
- You can glue to any relatively flat surface. We as a rule try to glue to the best part showing. It my be a cut surface or a non cut surface. On occasion a rough grind may be necessary to insure a somewhat flat spot to glue to.
- Soft wood 2″ x 2″ cut to about 5 inches in length are great for most small to medium rocks. Try 2″ x 4″ and 2″ x 6″ for big heavy rocks.
- “Glueing Up” is a great organizing habit to consider in your lapidary shop. It does take some discipline to organize your next day’s cutting but it helps you follow through on your next day’s plans.
- Your last slab will usually be your best. Simply cut through the glue and wood joint. Your diamond saw will cut rock, glue and wood no problem. Soak the last slab in acetone for 10 or 15 minutes this will help to pop off the adhesive with a sharp strong knife. The “JB Weld” does not melt but it will come off of you can just grind it flat. Sometimes on high value material the “JB Weld” is handy for a quality backer material.
- Be proud in knowing that you are systematically insuring your blades and saws will keep in alignment and operate as stress free as possible.
Warm Regards,
Tim Larocco
Owner – CigarBoxRock Lapidary