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The masonry / concrete saw is a powerful tool
used for slicing through exceptionally rigid and dense materials such
as concrete, ceramic, corian, tiles granite, porcelain, and stone. The
tool blade is designed to cut both cultured as well as natural stone,
extracting masonry mortar. Some common applications of masonry saws are
wood molding, concave dishing, and trimming. It can also be used for
creating slots for pipes, cables, and conduits. Some masonry saws can
be used as tuck-pointing machines with the addition of the relevant
blade. The saw is capable of both dry and wet cutting and can be
initiated from both the left and right sides of the saw. This tool is
used by carpenters, masons, plumbers, and other building contractors.
The saw is a useful tool to have at home.
Features and working of a masonry / concrete saw
The masonry saw consists of a circular blade
which initiates the cutting action through its rotational motion. The
blade is powered by an approximately 7.9 to 11 amp motor, generating an
output of around 10,000 to 12,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). A
variable speed control feature offers the user the ability to adjust
the working speed depending on the relevant application. Carbon brushes
in the motor protect the motor from overheating. For more efficient
cutting, the tool generally incorporates two diamond blades arranged in
a parallel configuration. Some saws are single-bladed. The engine is
mounted on a shock absorbing platform for smoother operation. Precision
machined pulleys and micro-V belts offer maximum power and durability.
The cutting depth can be adjusted from around
0 to 1-1/4 inch. Saws having a 16 inch blade offer a cutting depth of
around 5-5/8 inches. Due to the friction generated when cutting, there
may be a certain amount of heat generated. A stainless steel water
distribution system enables water to flow over the blade. Sometimes,
the tool incorporates a self-priming, belt driven, centrifugal water
pump. Smooth movement of the blade is enhanced with the 1-1/4 inch
blade shaft held in place by two self-aligning, heavy-duty, pillow ball
bearings.
Wet cutting saws have tubes of around 15 feet
along with a water valve and a water pressure regulator. Precise
angular cutting is enabled with the 0-to-45 degree bevel facility with
the shoe. The shoe can be locked into the desired angle. At 90 degrees,
the depth of cut is around 1-3/8 inches and at 45 degrees, the cutting
depth is approximately 1-3/16 inches.
What to look for in a masonry / concrete saw
Similar to most Cutting Tools, the masonry
saw creates a large amount of dust during the sawing process. The
presence of an efficient dust collection system, with a vacuum nozzle,
will help to keep the work area clean for the user and increase
visibility on the cutting line for enhanced accuracy. The motor housing
usually has an airtight cover to prevent water or dust from damaging
the delicate internal components of the motor. A soft start feature
prevents the tool from starting at a high torque, which could result in
a jagged cut. A cast aluminum hinged blade guard provides adequate
protection for the blade. Safety is further enhanced with a
conveniently located ‘On/Off’ switch. A recoil spring return system
increases the cutting speed and user comfort.
An overload protection feature renders the
motor a longer life. Some saws have a temperature monitoring feature
that prevents the tool from getting overheated. Electrical surge
protection ensures a consistent flow of electricity into the tool. The
durability of the tool is further enhanced with a powder-coated chassis
that is resistant to corrosion and peeling.
A side handle provides a two-handed grip for
the user, thereby increasing stability and accuracy. Added sturdiness
is provided to the tool with a reinforced box chassis and a jig-welded
steel frame assembly. An approximate 20 inch wide wheel base ensures
uniform distribution of the engine weight for easier tracking. For
production cutting tasks that require uninterrupted running, a lock-on
button is provided.
Most saws are shipped with a blade wrench to
facilitate easy changing of the blade. Some reputed manufacturers of
masonry / concrete saws include Flex, Makita, MK Diamond, and TD
Industrial.
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