The most common reasons for cutting into concrete are to widen openings; cut out space for new doors or windows; shape beam pockets; remodeling and additions. The first and best solution is to sub the job out to specialty contractors who can save you time and money and make your life a lot easier. However, if you decide to do it on your own, understand the limitations and capabilities of concrete cutting tools will help you determine which one will be best for the job.
The two most common concrete cutting tools are diamond chainsaws and cut-off machines. Although their uses may overlap to some extent, they are, however, not interchangeable and knowing the differences between the two types will help you make the right choice.
Diamond Saws
A diamond chainsaw meets a unique need when it comes to concrete cutting. Designed in a similar way to a wood-cutting chainsaw with a chain driven by the powerhead, a diamond chainsaw has segments of diamonds laser-welded onto the chain instead of the typical cutting teeth of a wood saw. The grinding action of these diamond segments is designed to wear away hard material like concrete and brick. It creates a safe cutting operation without the kickback normally associated with a wood chain and has the ability to cut up to twice as deep as a circular-blade cut-off machine. Depending on the model and size, there are gas saws that can cut from 10 inches to a full 16 inches in depth. The most common type used on job sites is a gas saw with a 12-inch depth of cut, whereas a fourteen-inch circular-blade cut-off saw will reach a maximum of less than 5 inches in depth.
If the job requires a cut of more than 5 inches to be made than a diamond chainsaw is the right tool to use. For most jobs, a gas-driven 2-cycle engine diamond chainsaw is adequate as it offers portability and lower investment. At least an 80cc engine is recommended and a machine that can use either a 12 inch or 14-inch cutting depth guide bar. Visit https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23252479 to know about how to control dust from concrete saw cutting.
Cut-off Machines
Cut-off machines are the industry standard and go-to-choice for most jobs. These hand-held saws use either a diamond blade or an abrasive composite resin wheel to cut concrete, asphalt, or metal. Available in twelve or fourteen-inch sizes, they are typically powered by a 2-stroke gas engine but can also use an air compressor, electric motor, or a hydraulic power unit, depending on the required application. This type of tool is popular with most operators as it is lightweight, simpler to use, and less noisy than other types. However, they are not very powerful and it can take much longer to complete a larger job.
Electric saws are recommended for enclosed environments whereas hydraulic saws have the highest weight to power ratio. They are convenient for contractors who have hydraulic power readily available, if not, they will work out to be more expensive.
Pneumatic saws are very convenient where an air compressor is available. A pneumatic saw is simple to use, lightweight, easy to maintain and has fewer potential hazards like the risk of fluid leaks. However, if a compressor and diesel fuel to power the machine are not available, it can be very expensive to use. Users are also required to wear the appropriate safety and personal protective equipment outlined in the instruction manual. Click here to get more about concrete cutting tools.
Gas-powered units are among the most popular types of cut-off machines as they offer the advantages of familiarity and portability; however, they require more maintenance. Operators always prefer lightweight equipment as they are easier to operate, but there is a trade-off if, for example, a heavier saw is required to cut deeper and faster, which makes it more difficult to handle but gets the job done faster and more effectively.