Coatings for HSS Cold Circular Saw Blades: Performance, Protection & Precision

Introduction to HSS Cold Saw Blades

High-Speed Steel (HSS) cold circular saw blades are a mainstay in metal fabrication workshops across the UK. Known for their ability to produce precise, burr-free cuts in ferrous and non-ferrous metals, these blades operate at slow rotational speeds with coolant to reduce heat buildup. But not all HSS blades are created equal—their surface coating can make a significant difference in cutting performance, blade life, and material compatibility.

This guide explores the most common coatings used on non-tipped HSS cold saw blades and how to choose the best option for your operation.

Why Blade Coating Matters

Coatings applied to HSS saw blades serve several important functions:

• Increase surface hardness

• Reduce friction and heat

• Prevent welding of material to the blade

• Improve wear resistance

• Extend blade life between sharpenings

Choosing the right coating can dramatically enhance both productivity and cut quality, especially in high-volume or abrasive material environments.

Common HSS Saw Blade Coatings

1. Steam Oxide (Black Oxide)

Steam-treated or black oxide-coated HSS blades are the most common, especially for general-purpose ferrous cutting.

• Colour: Black

• Features: Porous finish improves coolant retention and reduces micro-welding

• Best For: Mild steel, free-cutting steel

• Advantages: Cost-effective, anti-stick, better heat dissipation

2. Titanium Nitride (TiN)

TiN coatings are golden in colour and widely used for their excellent hardness and oxidation resistance.

• Colour: Gold

• Features: Increases blade surface hardness to ~2,300 HV

• Best For: Steel, alloy steel, and some stainless steels

• Advantages: Longer life than steam oxide, higher cutting speeds

3. Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN)

TiCN builds on TiN’s performance with enhanced toughness and lower friction.

• Colour: Blue-grey

• Features: Hardness ~3,000 HV; lower coefficient of friction

• Best For: High-strength steel, stainless, and exotic alloys

• Advantages: Superior wear resistance, longer tool life under extreme load

4. Titanium Aluminium Nitride (TiAlN)

A high-performance coating for extreme applications. TiAlN performs well in dry cutting environments and at elevated temperatures.

• Colour: Violet-black

• Features: Forms aluminium oxide layer at high temps for heat resistance

• Best For: High-alloy steel, stainless, titanium, and dry cutting

• Advantages: Outstanding thermal stability, superior tool life in tough conditions

Comparison Table of HSS Saw Blade Coatings

Which Coating Should You Choose?

Your selection should depend on your material type, cutting speed, and production volume:

• Low-to-mid production + mild steel: Steam Oxide

• General steel fabrication: TiN

• Precision/high-performance + stainless or hardened steels: TiCN

• Dry cutting or difficult alloys: TiAlN

Contact us today for a tailored quote.