When selecting diamond powder for lapping and polishing, the first question is usually crystal type: monocrystalline or polycrystalline. They behave very differently on the workpiece.
Monocrystalline Diamond (HDY, HDG, HDH)
- Single crystal, sharp cutting edges.
- High material removal rate and cutting efficiency.
- Best for lapping, rough polishing and fast stock removal.
- Sharp edges can leave deeper scratches on very brittle materials.
Polycrystalline Diamond (HDYP, HDP)
- Made of many micro-crystals sintered or etched together.
- Self-sharpening: new cutting edges are exposed as the particle wears.
- Smaller effective cutting edges reduce scratches and surface damage.
- Ideal for final polishing and damage-free mirror finishes on sapphire, SiC, optics.
How To Choose
| Goal | Recommended |
| Fast stock removal | HDY monocrystalline, coarser grades |
| Balanced lapping | HDY / HDG monocrystalline |
| Scratch-free polishing | HDYP polycrystalline |
| Ultra-fine mirror finish | HDP / HDPN detonation poly, nano |
Many processes use both: monocrystalline for the rough steps, polycrystalline for the finish. Our engineers can set up the full sequence for your material – ask us.