Cutting Edges
Choosing the right cutting edge for your snowplow or equipment is crucial for optimal performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. With a variety of materials available, each offering unique properties, understanding their strengths and limitations is key to making an informed decision.
This guide will help you navigate the options, from robust steel and high-durability AR400 to the extreme wear resistance of carbide and the surface-friendly qualities of rubber and polyurethane. We’ll explore the key characteristics of each blade type, their recommended applications, and important considerations to ensure you select the perfect fit for your specific needs, whether you’re clearing highways, protecting sensitive road markings, or tackling challenging terrains.
Consider your priorities: Is it maximum lifespan, lowest upfront cost, gentleness on surfaces, or aggressive scraping power? Dive into the details below to discover which cutting edge will deliver the best results for your operation.
Selecting the best cutting edge for your application
| Key Properties | Recommended Use / Advantages | Limitations | |
| Steel | Cost-effective, Versatile, Aggressive | Standard/rural Roads, Gravel, Non-sensitive Surfaces | Loud, Harsh, Wears Sensitive Surfaces |
| AR400 | High Hardness (360-440 HB), Durable | Gravel/unpaved Roads, Heavy Snow, Reduced Downtime | More expensive than mild steel |
| Carbide | Extreme Wear Resistance, Consistent Edge, Shock Resistant | Highways, City Roads, High-wear Zones (municipal) | Higher initial cost |
| Rubber SBR | Metal-free, Flexible, Gentle, Surface Protection | Marked Roads, Airports, Sensitive/damaged Surfaces | Less effective on ice/packed snow; wears faster; tears |
| Plastic UHMW | High Abrasion/Impact/Chemical Resistance; Low Friction, Quiet, Light | Paved/Sensitive Surfaces (marked roads); Light/Heavy Snow | Dimensionally Unstable, Deforms, Wears fast on gravel |
| Combi RC | Shock-Absorbing (corundum), Gentle, Steel-free Contact | Light Plows, Uneven Terrain, Sensitive/Marked Paths | May mark decorative surfaces |
| Combi SRC | Multi-element (Hardox, Rubber, Corundum), Durable, Shock-Absorbing, Efficient | Universal Medium/Heavy Plows, Fast Driving | Not for sensitive/marked roads |
| Combi Wolf Extreme | Hardox 450, Rubber, Wolfram Carbide, Extreme Durability | Heavy Plows | Not for sensitive/marked roads |
Steel
Steel Cutting Edges offer a traditional, cost-effective solution for aggressive clearing of packed snow and ice on roads and gravel. Note their potential for louder operation and wear on sensitive surfaces.
AR400
AR400 Cutting Edges are upgraded, heat-treated steel (360 – 440 Brinell) providing extended wear life. Ideal for rough conditions, gravel, and heavy snow, they significantly reduce replacement needs.
Carbide
Carbide Cutting Edges provide extreme wear resistance and consistent performance for municipal snowplows in demanding zones, ensuring minimal maintenance despite a higher initial cost.
Rubber SBR
(Styrene Butadiene Rubber)
Rubber SBR offers flexibility and multi-layer reinforcement for superior surface protection and reduced noise. Perfect for sensitive environments.
Plastic UHMW
(Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)
Plastic UHMW provides low friction, high abrasion resistance, and quiet, superior protection for sensitive surfaces and light snow, often outlasting rubber.
Combi RC (Norskal)
Steel w/ Rubber & Corundum Segments
Combi RC blends steel, rubber, and corundum segments for gentle, steel-free contact and shock absorption. Ideal for light plows on sensitive marked areas.
Combi SRC (Norskal)
Hardox Steel w/ Rubber & Corundum
Combi SRC blends Hardox® Steel with rubber & corundum for durable, shock-absorbing contact. Ideal for medium / heavy plowing. Avoid sensitive/marked roads.
Combi Wolf Extreme (Norskal)
Hardox Steel w/ Rubber & Wolfram Carbide
Combi Wolf Extreme combines Hardox® steel, rubber, and Wolfram Carbide for unparalleled durability. Ideal for extreme wear in hardest environments.
