42 or 46 beads per linear meter? Considerations on cutting results with Ferriera di Cittadella’s grooved wire
Ferriera di Cittadella’s Cobalt-Free grooved wire, introduced in February 2025, has consolidated its market position thanks to its excellent cutting performance. Compared to previous versions, it offers numerous advantages that have now become standard. Here are the main results obtained after months of use by customers:
- Optimal bead protection: thanks to an innovative design with two plastic rings, the wire protects the beads, improving both yield and cutting precision.
- Uniform consumption of beads: the beads wear evenly, maintaining their shape and extending the wire’s lifespan.
- Superior cutting quality: continuous removal of dust and debris ensures smooth and even slabs, reducing imperfections.
- Polishing savings: the smooth surface of the slabs shortens polishing time, cutting down on processing costs.
- Reduced vibrations: the plastic rings improve cutting stability, minimizing vibrations and wear on rubber coatings.
- Quieter environment: fewer vibrations contribute to a more comfortable and quieter working environment.
- Energy savings: the wire’s cutting features allow for time recovery at the end of the cut, lowering costs.
- Increased lifting efficiency: the rings facilitate wire lifting, protecting it and speeding up the process.
- Ease of use: the design of the wire enhances its ergonomics and handling.
The wire is available in the following diameters: 4.3 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.3 mm, 5.5 mm, 6.3 mm, 6.5 mm, 7.3 mm, and 7.5 mm.
42 OR 46 BEADS? THE DIFFERENCE IN PERFORMANCE
The adoption of the 46 bead per linear meter has shown superior performance compared to the traditional 42 bead version. A comparative test on a 5.3 mm wire confirmed the improvement of the above-mentioned features. After 432 hours of continuous use on a multi-wire machine, the wire with 46 beads was still in excellent condition, with beads measuring between 4.70 and 4.75 mm in residual diameter. In contrast, the 42 bead wire had reached its end of life.
However, it is important to note that even 432 hours of cutting represents an excellent result for both configurations. These results confirm the potential of Ferriera’s technology to extend wire lifespan and increase operational efficiency, with both economic and environmental benefits. The company continues to conduct research aimed at developing increasingly high-performance solutions.