Summary: The key for efficient cutting of concrete is proper training and effective tools. Today, contractors are over burdened with the tasks of repairing, renovating or rebuilding tasks. Some repairs require cutting of the concrete wall sections in order to replace them. The jobs for cutting concrete are increasing day by day as old buildings are getting makeovers.
As mentioned above, training and effective tools are mandatory to obtain best concrete cutting results. Concrete saws are one of the finest tools for the task of concrete cutting. However, using improper blades and inappropriate selection of concrete saw can make the task even harder. There are concrete saws that can power 54” blades and are capable of making more than 20” deep cuts. These tools should not be used by novice users because these tools require proper operation in order to achieve desirable results. This article will discuss how to take under consideration for the purpose of cutting concretes.
Get right tools with right settings:
For effective concrete cutting, make sure that you choose the right cutting tool. There are various types of concrete saw that you can use for the purpose of cutting concrete. Whatever type you choose, always make sure that all the guards are well placed and all equipments that come with that concrete saw are in fine condition and operational. After that you have to select appropriate blade which depends upon the concrete that is to be cut.
Install the blade in the concrete saw; don’t forget to carefully read the instruction manual before installing the blade. The speed of the blade should be adjustable; it should not be too slow or too fast. If you run the blade too fast then it will reduce its cutting ability, moreover it can result in the breaking of blade. That is why it is always recommended to read the instruction manual that comes with the saw in order to properly operate the tool to get the most out of it.
Dressing:
Concrete cutting can become a dangerous if it is not handled properly. All the operators of various concrete cutting tools should always show serious attitude towards taking necessary precautions in order to protect their lives and health. Operators should always wear eye, ear and head protection. It is also recommended to wear chest protection as well. The dress should not be loose and operators should have respirators in case of dry-cutting concrete.
Get Set:
Planning is considered to be one of the most important phases of any project/task. You should properly plan the cutting of concrete before starting the cutting process. Carefully measure and then mark the area that needs to be cut. You can use various methods of marking the cutting area. One of the most common methods is to use a chalk for marking the cutting area. If there are any other workers or general public that are not involved in the cutting process but are going in and out of the cutting area then block the access to that area.
Carefully inspect the saw machine before applying it. Carefully check all the screws and drive belt before turning the machine on. Don’t forget to inspect the blade as well before using the machine. Make sure that the blade is correctly installed in the saw. Check the blade for any deformities from damage. If your saw is driven hydraulically, then ensure that all the lines are airtight and have been purged as well. Check out the hose condition to make sure that it can handle the pressure that is required by the saw.
If the saw is connected by electric motors then check all connections and cords and make sure that you don’t drag the cords through standing water. Usually saw motors operate on two-phase power, however, there are few saw motors that operates on 3-phase power; ensure you take all the above points into consideration using the saw machine. Also don’t forget to check the water supply for the blade. Both sides of the blade should be provided with 2 to 5 gal per minute of water. Water is required to cool the blade and also helps in removing the slurry out from the cut.
Let’s start the cut
Make sure that you have all the protective equipments before starting the saw. Carefully position the saw according to the mark that you have made. There are many newer models of saw that comes with a wall fastener or floor fastener. Make use of the fastener according to the instructions mentioned in the instruction manual. One of them most important consideration is that you should always ask all the workers to stand clear of the saw machine. After you start the machine, carefully notice the blade; if it is wobbling or vibrating, immediately shut down the power and try to fix the cause. The blade should never be used if it is wobbling. The most common reason for wobbling is the incorrect installation of the blade.
Make the cut
Begin the cut with the engine at full throttle. Carefully monitor the water flow. If ever you notice that the water flow has stopped, immediately stop cutting or you will damage the blade. Never ever twist the blade during the process of cutting. Make sure that the water is evenly sprayed on both sides of the blade.
Don’t try to use excessive force into the cut because your blade might encounter the rod. If it does so then slow the machine. If, in case, you have to stop mid-cut then put out the blade from the cut. If the slurry that comes out of the cut is brown, not gray then it means that you are cutting into the soil or the fill through the concrete. If this happens then you are required to adjust your saw because it can damage the blade. Always try to make better estimates of concrete thickness before cutting.
Before going for the final cut; carefully install anchors or wedges that will handle the movements of slabs. It is recommended to core-drill the corners in order to cut any possible reinforcing material that has been used. Make sure that your anchors are strong enough to handle the movements of slabs. You have the option of using shoring in order to support the slab, if you do use shoring then make sure that the saw doesn’t cut the shoring support.
Finish it
Once you have made the cut according to the requirement, unlock the drive train of the saw and raise it out of the cut that it has made. Stop the water supply and all power supplies. You can also shut the electric unit. Never ever move the machine until the blade comes to complete rest otherwise you might injure someone.
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