Characteristics of concrete saws and features of their choice

Construction and repair are complex processes that require not only knowledge and skills, but also the availability of special equipment. One of the most difficult stages in the transformation of a living space is the stage of production of the necessary concrete structures. To accomplish this task, specialists use special saws that allow them to perform work of varying degrees of complexity. On the shelves of specialized stores, you can see a large assortment of products of this group, which differ in price range, model, and also the country of manufacture.

Cutting concrete is a complex process which can be done in two ways.

• Dry - performance of work, observing small time intervals, which make it possible to cool the tool and remove dust particles. This method does not make it possible to make deep cuts due to rapid heating and disc breakage.
• Wet - a professional method that allows you to quickly complete a large amount of work.

The concrete saw is a versatile tool that is used to perform a large number of concrete-related work. Modern manufacturers produce two types of this device:

• manual;
• specialized.

There are three types of hand tool models:

• electrical;
• hydraulic;
• gasoline.

The main advantages of hand tools are the following characteristics:

• high level of speed and power;
• large volume of productivity;
• efficiency.

Electric tools (electric saws) are the most popular type of saws for concrete, which can be operated from an outlet or from a battery. Among the main advantages are the following:

• affordable price range;
• availability of replaceable components;
• performing work by a reciprocating method;
• lack of vibrations;
• mobility;
• small size;
• the ability to carry out repairs without special tools;
• high power level.

Disadvantages:

• short period of operation;
• the presence of an electrical power source.

There are two types of electric tools: saber and chain.

The working principle of the chain cutting tool is to cut the concrete using a diamond-coated chain and simultaneously supply water to reduce the temperature of the working surface. Advantages:

• work from the electrical network;
• lack of exhaust emissions;
• small weight;
• the ability to perform deep cuts;
• high speed of transmission of electrical energy;
• low price.

Reciprocating mechanisms are universal equipment that is used by professional craftsmen and is used to cut not only concrete, but also wood and metal. The mechanism is powered by a battery, and a hacksaw blade is a consumable. Advantages:

• versatility;
• flush cutting;
• high power;
• high level of productivity;
• quick replacement of deformed components.

Hydraulic tools are used for working with solid building materials and have several advantages:

• ease of use;
• high level of reliability;
• small size and weight;
• high power and speed of work;
• convenient and versatile adjustment.

There are two types of hydraulic equipment:

• disk;
• chain.

The disc model can be used not only by hand, but also with the help of a trolley.

Advantages:

• automatic system for stopping work in the event of a malfunction;
• the ability to carry out work in any conditions;
• oil-based work.

The diamond-coated chain mechanism is the professional tool for the most demanding tasks.

Advantages:

• the presence of a trigger valve;
• regulation of water flow;
• modular design;
• ease of use;
• reliability;
• long period of operation;
• large slot depth;
• the formation of right angles.

Professional equipment includes several types of saws.

• Wall saw - a device that consists of a motor, a hydraulic pump, guide rails, a cutting blade and a control panel. Advantages: the ability to perform large volumes of work of high complexity, fast cutting of reinforced concrete structures, high quality construction work, no noise and vibration, reliable installation on the working surface. Disadvantages: high price range, required special skills and practical experience, 380 W power supply.
• Seam cutter - special equipment that allows horizontal cutting of building structures. The device consists of a metal frame, a motor and a cutting work surface. Manufacturers produce two types of this device: stationary and portable. Advantages: Cutting thick building materials, no vibration. Disadvantages: work only in the horizontal direction, high price.
• Wire rope machine - special equipment, which can be either hydraulic or electric. Its set may include an oil station, a rope band, rollers and a cooling system. Advantages: sawing structures with a thickness of 500 mm, performance of work in any direction. The cutting element is a diamond-coated wire rope. Disadvantage - use only by professional builders.

Concrete saws are used to process the following building materials:

• cellular concrete;
• lightweight concrete;
• heavy concrete based on a polymer substance or slag;
• silicate brick;
• ceramic building material;
• artificial building products;
• gypsum;
• drywall;
• chalk;
• limestone.

Among the most popular types of work, for which a saw is required for concrete, builders distinguish the following:

• demolition and liquidation of walls, partitions, enclosing and supporting structures;
• changing the configuration of civil, defense and industrial premises;
• the formation of openings, corners and niches;
• construction of concrete structures;
• scrambling channels for communications, electrical cables and wires;
• cutting of building products.

The concrete cutting machine is a versatile equipment that is used not only by professional builders, but also by home craftsmen. In order to extend the life of the purchased equipment, several conditions must be observed:

• performing work without the use of physical pressure;
• short cutting period for dry building material;
• cutting at right angles.

Before starting work, novice craftsmen need to carefully study the recommendations of experienced specialists:

• the size of the fraction in the concrete slab affects the speed of work;
• particles of basalt and quartz quickly reduce the sharpness of the working surface;
• the power of the tool depends on its size;
• there are special discs for each type of building materials;
• performing a test cut will allow you to assess the reliability of the tool and the quality of work;
• when performing dry cutting, it is necessary to periodically pull out and cool the disc;
• Diamond core bits allow you to make even round holes.

Construction work is not only a complex process, but also a creative one. To carry out repair work on your own, you need to have not only experience and knowledge of construction, but also good equipment. Before going to a specialized store, you need to know exactly the purpose of the purchased equipment. To perform one-time work, it is not necessary to stop choosing expensive and professional equipment, it is enough to buy good quality hand tools. The advice of professional craftsmen and the advice of experienced consultants will help you make the right choice and purchase the right tool.

For an overview of the Makita electric diamond saw for concrete, see below.