Homebrew PCBs

>> Are there any problems running the diamond saw dry?
>> I am thinking about cutting apart finished assembled SMT boards.
>> Any vibration problems damaging components? Especially crystals?
>> Bertho

The reason the saw is used with water is to stop the diamodiferous grit on the rim from being detached when hot. The grit is pressed into the blade rim (usually aluminum alloy), heating causes the grit to un-bond from the rim. Secondly, the water clears away the accumulated swarf giving a faster cut. For all intents and purposes, keep it wet to save the blade. Unless the board is being assembled by a manufacturer, why not cut the board before populating it? This will alleviate any vibration problems and ingress of water into sensitive components





      

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