The working principle of a reciprocating saw for concrete
Reciprocating saws designed for processing concrete and other “stone” materials can be used for cutting the following construction and finishing materials:
- Cellular concrete: foam concrete and aerated concrete blocks, gas silicate concrete, foam gas concrete blocks and other similar building materials;
- Lightweight concrete: expanded clay concrete, pumice concrete, perlite concrete, wood concrete, polystyrene concrete and fire concrete;
- Heavy concrete made on the basis of Portland cement, asphalt, slag cement and polymer cement;
- Silicate, red and karmic bricks, clinker bricks, foam concrete, etc.;
- “Wild” stone, porcelain tiles, plasterboard slabs, artificial stone, limestone, shell rock and chalk.
Most often, a reciprocating saw for concrete is used for quick, efficient and relatively inexpensive work:
- Dismantling of walls, partitions, ceilings, concrete columns, pilasters, crossbars and other types of building structures and elements made of concrete and other “stone” materials”;
- Redevelopment of residential, office and industrial premises;
- Arranging window and door openings in concrete walls and adjusting the dimensions of existing openings;
- Final finishing of corners after operation of disk machines;
- Cutting holes and niches;
- Punching grooves for laying utilities, cutting ventilation ducts, arranging openings for sockets and switches. Other similar works;
- Cutting to size: concrete blocks, reinforced concrete products, foam concrete blocks, all types of bricks and other “stone” building and finishing materials.
Concrete cutting saw
Device and purpose
Petrol cutters are used for dismantling work.
A hand saw for cutting concrete can greatly facilitate the processing of reinforced concrete, stone, composite, brick and monolithic structures during all kinds of construction work. As a rule, wall saws with diamond blades are used for cutting reinforced concrete, but their use is not always available.
The fact is that the weight and dimensions of such machines are quite large, and therefore they cannot be used in hard-to-reach places, confined spaces, for high-altitude work in industrial mountaineering and other similar areas. Hand-held circular saws do not allow cutting to a sufficient depth.
Wall saws are often too bulky and heavy.
Therefore, when carrying out work using wall cutters and other heavy equipment, hand-held chain saws are always used. The reciprocating design of the cutting set allows you to work at a sufficient cutting depth - 30 - 40 cm, in addition, it allows the end entry of the saw and cut with a 90-degree rotation, which is important when constructing openings and niches.
A band saw for foam concrete allows you to cut to a sufficient depth.
The main cutting tool of the device is a diamond chain stretched on a special tire, which drives and guides the chain. The chainsaw chain for concrete has special soldering in the form of diamond-coated segments, which makes it more durable and efficient.
The bar and chain are detached from the saw like a headset, which simplifies the maintenance and repair of the tool.
The device has a power unit - a gasoline or electric engine.
Electric chain saw for concrete.
The gasoline unit, as a rule, has a two-stroke operating principle and is protected from moisture and dust. Torque is transmitted to the chain using a clutch or gearbox; most often, modern tools have an automatic centrifugal clutch, which allows you to immobilize the chain at idle speed or stop it when jammed and other emergency modes.
The tire of a chainsaw for stone differs from the tire of a regular chainsaw for wood. It is more complex due to the channels through which water flows to the circuit. Water is necessary to cool the cutting belt and remove concrete-sand sludge and chips, without which the chain will not be able to work for a long time.
The bar and chain are removed from the device.
If the tool is equipped with an electric motor, then this is usually a brushed single-phase unit running on alternating current 50 Hz and 230 V. The power of the electric motor can range from 1 to 3 kW, sometimes more powerful machines are also available. Particular attention in the design of electric saws is paid to protecting the engine from water and dust.
Important! Hand-held reciprocating saws for concrete are used for cutting concrete, stone, brick or asphalt in hard-to-reach places during construction and dismantling work. It is also advisable to use them for small volumes and sizes of structures.
Application area
Saw on foam concrete at work.
Electric saws and gas cutters for concrete can be used to cut the following materials:
- Cellular concrete , including foam concrete, aerated concrete, gas silicate, foam aerated concrete and similar materials;
- Lightweight concrete , including expanded clay concrete, pumice concrete, perlite concrete, polystyrene concrete, wood concrete, fire concrete and the like;
- Dense and heavy concrete based on Portland cement, asphalt, slag cement, polymer binder and other types of binder. Heavy concrete can be cut with weak reinforcement;
- Sand-lime and ceramic bricks , clinker, building blocks made of foam concrete and other materials;
- A natural stone;
- Porcelain tiles and other types of artificial stone;
- Gypsum, drywall, chalk, limestone;
- All kinds of composite and complex building materials from solid substances.
As you can see in the photo, it is possible to cut small holes in natural stone.
Most often, such saws are used in the following areas:
- Dismantling work to demolish walls, partitions, ceilings, columns, diaphragms, crossbars and other elements of enclosing and load-bearing building structures;
- Work on redevelopment of apartments;
- Construction of additional window or door openings in the walls, as well as adjustment of existing ones during major repairs;
- Finishing corners after disk machines work;
- Cutting niches, holes and openings;
- Laying grooves and cutting niches for socket boxes, laying various channels and communications, as well as ventilation holes and channels;
- Cutting building materials such as concrete blocks, reinforced concrete products and stone, brick, foam concrete and others.
It is especially convenient to cut openings.
Important! The presence of large fittings can become a serious obstacle and require the use of a gas or rotary cutter. The instructions for the tool must indicate the limits of applicability of the device.
Since you work with the tool yourself, it is important to remember about safety precautions and protective equipment - gloves, glasses and a helmet. Although the device is relatively safe, the cost of ignoring these rules may be too high.
Device and principle of operation
A reciprocating saw for concrete is an analogue of a hand saw for wood, powered by a gasoline Internal Combustion Engine or a powerful electric motor operating from an alternating current network of 220-230 Volts. The working tool - a tire and a cutting chain with diamond elements - provide a fairly deep cut (30-40 centimeters) and the possibility of end entry into concrete with a 90-degree turn. This is very important and relevant when arranging niches, window and door openings.
Of particular interest is the cutting tool - a diamond endless chain stretched over a so-called splint (saber). The chain is equipped with special diamond-coated segments and is cooled by water flowing through special channels.
The cutting tool is driven using either an Internal Combustion Engine or an electric motor with a power of 1 to 3 kilowatts. Clutches and gearboxes are used as transmission.
Modern reciprocating saws are equipped with a centrifugal clutch. The centrifugal clutch allows you to stop the cutting tool at idle speed, when jammed, when you “meet” a solid obstacle “too tough” and in other emergency situations.
It should be noted that reciprocating saws powered by a gasoline engine have objective advantages. Firstly, this is a higher cutting power, and secondly, it is 100% energy independent, autonomous and able to work in field conditions.
General characteristics and applications
The saw is a device that is best suited for work related to laying concrete blocks. It is this unit that will help you cut the template block to the required dimensions under any conditions.
Not all types of concrete can be sawed. The power of the saw is enough to work with:
- cellular concrete (for example, foam concrete);
- lightweight concrete (for example, expanded clay concrete);
- dense, heavy concrete based on slag cement or polymer binder;
- silicate and ceramic bricks;
- natural stone;
- artificial stone;
- gypsum, drywall, chalk, limestone;
- other solid building materials.
In addition, concrete cutting is most often used for:
- dismantling;
- redevelopment;
- finishing corners;
- constructing and cutting openings in walls;
- laying grooves, channels, communication and other openings;
- cutting materials.
However, we can cut concrete blocks only taking into account the type of unit that will be used to carry out the work.
Useful tips
- Concrete reciprocating saws are the only possible effective cutting tool for cutting stone material in hard-to-reach places. The use of this tool is economically justified for small volumes of work;
- A reciprocating saw is not recommended for cutting reinforced concrete. In this case, to cut the reinforcement it is necessary to additionally use a gas or disk cutter.
To sum it up, it's worth adding. A reciprocating saw is an object of increased danger, both for the operator and for other workers. Therefore, it is very important when carrying out such work to strictly observe the Safety Rules and use personal protective equipment: goggles, gloves, helmet and overalls.
Application area
Concrete saws are used to process the following building materials:
- cellular concrete;
- lightweight concrete;
- heavy concrete based on a polymer substance or slag;
- sand-lime brick;
- ceramic building material;
- artificial building products;
- gypsum;
- drywall;
- chalk;
- limestone.
Among the most popular types of work for which a concrete saw is needed, builders identify the following:
- demolition and liquidation of walls, partitions, enclosing and load-bearing structures;
- reconfiguration of civil, defense and industrial premises;
- formation of openings, corners and niches;
- construction of concrete structures;
- stripping of channels for communications, electrical cables and wires;
- cutting of construction products.
Classification of saws
Concrete saws are divided into types according to several criteria. Depending on the quality and method of application, a distinction is made between manual and special. The first category covers equipment that is used as joint cutters, wall cutters and wire saws. The distinctive features of these devices include:
- high speed and, as a result, increased productivity;
- efficiency;
- power.
The hand saw is preferably used for cutting thin concrete structures. In turn, this category is divided into the following subcategories:
- Electric: chain; saber
- Hydraulic: chain; disk.
- Gasoline.
To understand the advantages of a certain category, a detailed description of each unit is necessary.
Electric saw
Electric concrete saw DeWalt.
If the main building material is concrete, then to achieve guaranteed success you need a saw of this particular category. Its advantages:
- replaceable blade;
- cutting occurs in a reciprocating manner;
- the counterweight ensures virtually vibration-free operation;
- To change the saw, you do not need to use special tools.
In addition, this unit can be powered from two sources - an outlet or a battery. Its price is not high, which is explained by its compactness and power. The device also has several disadvantages:
- short battery life;
- dependence on electrical communications.
Depending on the cutting method, there are chain saws and reciprocating electric saws. An example in the first subcategory is the American device of the ICS brand. The principle of its operation is to cut concrete using a diamond-coated chain. At the same time, water is supplied, which simultaneously cleans the cut from dirt and cools the chain.
dry, wet, characteristics and device
A power cutter is compared to a stand-alone circular saw - the main element of the device is a rotating disk with a cutting edge. Unlike the latter, the gas cutter is more compact, convenient to use, and independent of electricity. Also, a circular saw is designed for cutting wood, plywood, and with the help of a gas cutter they work with harder materials - stone, concrete, asphalt, metal elements - beams, pipes.
The constant demand for the device has been confirmed - during times of crisis, sales did not fall significantly. The scope of use of gas cutters is quite wide - the purchase of such a mechanism frees you from the need to buy expensive specialized equipment for dismantling structures made of reinforced concrete, concrete, and stone.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of a gas cutter over other special devices for cutting materials is its mobility and ease of use. A running gasoline engine is not connected to a source of electricity; the equipment is convenient to use for working in remote locations. The most durable materials can be cut - granite, reinforced concrete, other types of concrete, natural stone. The cutting depth directly depends on the diameter of the cutting element - some models reach 40 cm.
When cutting, the mechanism is predominantly held in the hands, hence the high maneuverability. There are devices with a cooling and water supply system - this allows you to work for a long time without turning off the device, without fear of overheating. Water circulation reduces the amount of dust generated during cutting - an important point when working indoors; a significant accumulation of dust makes breathing difficult and interferes with visibility.
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Specifications
The devices are equipped with a powerful gasoline engine capable of accelerating the cutting element to 6000 rpm. The weight reaches 10 kg, the device is convenient to operate - the weight is not very noticeable thanks to the comfortable handle.
The disc cutting plate is coated with a layer of diamond coating - guarantees smooth cutting edges, corresponding to the intended boundaries. The depth of immersion depends on the diameter and has a fairly wide range.
Some models are equipped with a special transport trolley, controlled remotely, which greatly facilitates the work. Such units cost significantly more. Simple hand-held devices have different weights; an important characteristic is the level of vibration.
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Petrol cutter device
Regardless of the features and performance of the model, the main elements of the device are the engine and the diamond-coated cutting disc. The price mainly depends on the quality and size of the latter. Hand tools are equipped with a comfortable handle that allows you to hold the gas cutter firmly in your hands for precise cutting of materials. There are two groups of gas cutters - for wet and dry cutting.
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For dry cutting
Models of this type do not have additional protective elements and there is no cooling system. It is necessary to leave the device idle every half a minute - the device cools down, you can start working again. The price of dry cutting devices is lower - this is a dubious advantage. The cutting process takes longer; cutting reinforced concrete is accompanied by a large amount of dust. When working with such a gas cutter, you need to take care of additional protective equipment - a respirator, goggles, gloves.
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For wet cutting
Devices for wet cutting have a special casing with a cooling liquid - it flows through tubes and is supplied to the reinforced concrete being processed, the disk during operation of the device. The price of the equipment is significantly higher, but is fully justified by a number of advantages:
- the diamond disc does not overheat during repair work;
- The cooling system increases the lifespan of the device or disk;
- the amount of dust generated is significantly less than during dry cutting;
- A gas cutter for wet cutting does not need a break to cool down - you reduce the duration of work.
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Tips for choosing
Safety comes first.
It is important to choose the right gas cutter - the result of the work depends on a high-quality, convenient tool. The choice should be based on several points:
- Performance. Depending on the intended purpose of purchasing the device, pay attention to the maximum cutting depth. Cutting a metal pipe or reinforced concrete of considerable height - the diameter of the required equipment depends on this. The maximum cutting depth is too small - the disc will not reach the opposite edge in the concrete.
- Safety. When working with a gas cutter, this point should come first. In the process of cutting reinforced concrete, sparks and dust arise. To prevent them from getting on the operator, the devices are equipped with special covers - they cover the disks and prevent possible injuries. If this part is not available, it is advisable to think about purchasing additional personal protective equipment - a respirator, goggles, gloves, a helmet.
- Ease of use. Most devices are designed for manual work - when purchasing, you need to pay attention to the handle and the weight of the equipment. Hold the tool in your hands - the handle should be pleasant to the touch and not create unnecessary pressure on your palms. Many modern gas cutters are equipped with two handles, which allows the weight to be evenly distributed - this simplifies the work and makes it possible to more carefully control the cutting process on concrete. The weight of the models reaches 10 kg - this makes it easier to control the mechanism. Heavier designs are equipped with special stable legs, thanks to which the gas cutter can be easily installed on the intended surface, fixed, and slightly guided when cutting.
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Diamond blade cutters
RUB 127,680
Hydraulic cutter Atlas Copco LS 14
Max cutting depth: 133 mm Blade size: 350 mm Oil consumption: 20-30 l/min Max pressure: up to 170 bar
RUB 131,369
Hydraulic cutter Atlas Copco LS 16
Max cutting depth: 160 mm Blade size: 400 mm Oil consumption: 20-40 l/min Max pressure: up to 172 bar
RUB 134,609
Hydraulic cutter Husqvarna K 2500
Max cutting depth: 145 mm Blade size: 400 mm Oil consumption: 40 l/min Max pressure: up to 140 bar
RUB 263,992
Hydraulic ring cutter Husqvarna K 3600
Max cutting depth: 260 mm Blade size: 350 mm Oil consumption: 40 l/min Max pressure: up to 140 bar
RUB 153,546
Hydraulic cutter Hycon HCS14
Max cutting depth: 137 mm Blade size: 350 mm Oil consumption: 20-30 l/min Max pressure: up to 172 bar
from 155,780 rub.
Hydraulic cutter Hycon HCS16
Max cutting depth: 162 mm Blade size: 400 mm Oil consumption: 20-40 l/min Max pressure: up to 172 bar
RUB 172,788
Hycon Hydraulic Cutter HCS18
Max cutting depth: 187 mm Blade size: 450 mm Oil consumption: 20-34 l/min Max pressure: up to 172 bar
RUB 319,855
Hycon HRS Hydraulic Ring Cutter
Max cutting depth: 300 mm Blade size: 400 mm Oil consumption: 30-40 l/min Max pressure: up to 160 bar
Price on request
Hydraulic cutter Chicago Pneumatic SAW 14
Max cutting depth: 133 mm Blade size: 355 mm Oil consumption: 20-30 l/min Max pressure: 170 bar
Price on request
Hydraulic cutter Chicago Pneumatic SAW 16
Max cutting depth: 160 mm Blade size: 405 mm Oil consumption: 20-30 l/min Max pressure: up to 170 bar
Tool structure
A diamond chain saw for cutting concrete will make the job much easier.
With its help, you can easily process stone, brick, composite and reinforced concrete structures. Most often, tools with diamond discs are used for such work, but due to their significant dimensions, they are not always applicable. They cannot be used in confined spaces or at heights. They also do not always allow cutting through the material to the required depth. In such cases, electric concrete chain saws are used. The cutting part allows you to go deep into the structure to a sufficient distance (more than 50 centimeters). Another advantage is that such a saw can enter the material from the end at an angle of 90 degrees. This will be needed to construct openings and other niches.
The diamond chain is the main cutting element. It is tensioned on a bar, which subsequently moves the chain. The chain has special brazings - diamond-coated protrusions that make the chain more rigid and durable.
