Cutting Tungsten Bands: What Works?

Tungsten wedding bands are notoriously difficult to cut, with some jewellers even warning that they can't be cut off in an emergency. However, it is possible to cut them with the right tools. In an emergency, medical professionals can break or snap a tungsten ring using vice grip pliers. To cut a tungsten ring, a diamond-coated blade is required, such as a rotary saw or a power ring cutter.

Using vice grip pliers to fracture the ring

Tungsten carbide rings are incredibly durable, scratch-resistant, and exceptionally strong. This makes them a popular choice for wedding bands, especially for men who work with their hands. However, this also means that tungsten rings are almost impossible to cut off in an emergency. So, if you need to remove a tungsten ring quickly, you will need to fracture it.

Vice grip pliers are the best tool for this job. They are a type of locking pliers that will allow you to grip the ring and apply enough pressure to fracture it. This method is much faster and easier than trying to cut the ring and is commonly used by medical professionals.

To fracture a tungsten ring using vice grip pliers, first, place the pliers gently around the ring, being careful not to pinch the skin. Lock the pliers by squeezing the handles together. Then, turn the knob on the handle anti-clockwise to open the mouth of the pliers until it is larger than the outer diameter of the ring. Next, turn the knob clockwise to tighten the grip, ensuring the teeth of the pliers are grasping the ring securely. Make sure the knob is hand-tight to prevent slipping and causing further injury.

Now, unlock the vice grip by pressing the tab on the inside of the handle and release the ring. Turn the knob 180 degrees clockwise. This will ensure that when the pliers are locked again, the distance between the jaws is just smaller than the outer diameter of the ring by about 1-2 millimetres. Finally, place the pliers back around the ring and squeeze the handles until they lock. The vice grip will crack the ring by applying force from opposite sides, and the ring will fall off the wearer's finger safely.

It is important to note that you should wear safety glasses when attempting this procedure, as there is a risk of shards flying when the ring fractures.

The rotary saw blade method

A rotary saw with a diamond-coated blade can cut through tungsten carbide. This is because diamonds are one of the few substances that can scratch tungsten. This method is extremely quick and can cut through the ring in a matter of seconds.

If you are looking to cut a tungsten wedding band, this method is probably the best option. However, if the ring is on a wearer's finger, it is safer to fracture the ring instead.

Titanium ring cutters

While tungsten rings are often advertised as "indestructible", they can be cut. However, a regular wire cutter or hacksaw will not be able to cut through a tungsten ring. Instead, a rotary saw with a diamond-coated blade can cut through a tungsten carbide ring in seconds. In an emergency, instead of cutting the ring, it is better to fracture it.

In an emergency situation, titanium rings can be cut off with manual or power ring cutters. A high-quality, diamond-coated disc or tempered tool steel blade is required to cut titanium rings. A diamond blade will make the job much easier and quicker and will also last much longer than a tool steel blade. The process is quite simple: the lower jaw of the cutter slides between the ring and finger, and the circular saw is turned by a cordless power driver to cut through the ring.

A power ring cutter with a diamond-coated disk blade will cut through even the strongest, aircraft-grade titanium rings in less than 5 minutes without heat or discomfort. The blade guard slips under the ring and completely protects the finger while cutting. A diamond disc saw is the secret to cutting hard metals. The diamond disc works differently from steel saws—it grinds the metal away instead of cutting it. Continued application of water is strongly recommended while cutting to keep the disc cool and to extend the life of the disk.

Angle grinders

While tungsten rings are extremely hard and brittle, making them difficult to cut, it is possible to cut them with an angle grinder. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Selecting the Right Angle Grinder and Cutting Disc

Choose an angle grinder with a motor that draws 9 amps or more, as this will provide sufficient power for cutting through tungsten. Look for features such as a spindle lock for quick disc changes and a guard to protect you from debris. As for the cutting disc, a diamond-cutting disc is ideal. Diamond discs contain industrial-grade diamond particles that provide super-hard cutting edges, making them effective for cutting hard and dense materials.

Preparing the Workpiece

Before cutting, ensure the tungsten ring is securely clamped in place to prevent it from shifting during the cutting process. This step is crucial for safety and achieving a straight cut.

Cutting Technique

For straight cuts, hold the grinder at a 90-degree angle to the ring and slowly cut through the metal with light pressure. Use a clamped straight edge as a guide for longer, straighter cuts. To cut curves, mark the desired curved line on the ring and carefully cut along the line with multiple passes of the grinder, removing small amounts of material with each pass. For tighter curves, consider using a cutting disc with a smaller diameter for more control and accuracy.

Safety Precautions

Always wear appropriate safety gear when using an angle grinder, including work gloves, protective eyewear, and sturdy footwear. Ensure the work area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling metal dust. Be cautious of flying debris and never apply too much pressure when cutting, as it can cause the disc to bind, kick back, or break.

Alternative Methods

While using an angle grinder is one way to cut tungsten rings, it's important to note that there are other methods available as well. One common alternative is to use a vice grip or locking pliers to shatter the ring. This method involves clamping the vice grip around the ring and slowly applying pressure until the ring breaks. Another option is to use a hammer to gently strike the ring until it fractures and falls apart.

Dremel cutting tools

Dremel offers a range of cutting tools that can be used to cut through tough materials such as tungsten wedding bands. Dremel's Rotary-Tool system is a versatile option, with variable speeds that allow you to cut through various materials, including tungsten. The system consists of a rotary tool and a range of attachments, including cutting kits and blades.

The Dremel EZ Lock 1-1/2-inch Rotary Tool Metal Cut-Off Wheels, available in a 5-pack or 12-pack, are designed for cutting metal. The EZ Lock system allows for easy accessory changes without the need for wrenches. The Dremel Universal 1-1/4-inch Carbide Flush Cutting Oscillating Multi-Tool Blade is another option, designed for cutting through tough materials like tungsten. It is available as a single blade or in a 3-piece kit.

For a more comprehensive solution, the Dremel Rotary Tool Accessory Kit (130-Piece) provides a wide range of accessories, including cutting wheels, grinding bits, and carving bits. This kit enables you to tackle various projects, including cutting tungsten. Additionally, the Dremel EZ728-01 11 PC EZ Lock Cutting Rotary Accessories Micro Kit offers a range of cutting accessories with the EZ Lock system for quick and easy changes.

When using Dremel cutting tools to cut tungsten wedding bands, it is important to prioritize safety. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety goggles and gloves, to shield yourself from sharp tungsten shards. Additionally, ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area to mitigate the risk of inhaling metal dust.

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