A concrete saw is a common tool for masonry and construction work. It is a common but very effective power tool for cutting concrete for different types of concrete work for both residential and commercial projects.
If you are wondering how a concrete saw is made, we have the answer right here. Concrete cutting is our thing!
Before we tackle the step by step by step process of making a concrete saw, let us first discuss some basic information about concrete cutting and types of concrete saws.
Two Methods of Sawing Concrete
- Wet – using water while cutting concrete is a popular and healthier way of cutting concrete. Water is sprayed manually or through a built-in pump that sprays water onto concrete as you cut it. It also keeps the blade of the saw lubricated and cool. This means the blade lasts longer and produces less dust. This means less dust is inhaled by the handler making it safer to use.
- Dry – using the concrete saw as it is, with no water being used. This produces a lot of dust, which is very harmful when inhaled. A diamond-bladed saw is often used in dry sawing because the diamond keeps the blade cool so it doesn’t heat up so easily. A diamond blade reduces the dust produced from sawing but it does not reduce it as much as using water.
Types of Concrete Saws
1). Based on how they are handled
- Handheld concrete saw (small) – these are small, handy but powerful tools that are usually used for smaller projects or for areas that are hard to access when using larger equipment.
- Walk-behind concrete saw (medium to large) – as the name suggests, they need to be held from behind when operating them. These are larger, heavier, and far more powerful than handheld saws. They can also get the job done faster.
2). Based on how they are powered
- Diesel-powered concrete saw – these types of saws do not need an electrical source as they are diesel-powered. This makes them very convenient to use and can be used anywhere. They are recommended for dry sawing because they usually have a dust-containment feature. It still produces some dust and some fumes, so it is often used for outdoor jobs.
- Electric-powered concrete saw – these saws are usually lighter, less noisy and do not produce a lot of dust. They are often used indoors as you need an electrical outlet to use it. They are easy to start, convenient, faster and environmentally-friendly.
- Battery-powered concrete saw – these are cordless concrete saws that are usually charged and connected to an electrical source when the battery runs out of power. They are very convenient and can be used anywhere in any given condition. They are also less of a working hazard due to the absence of a cord.
3). Based on Usage
- Chain Saw and Ring Saw – these are usually small, handheld saws that are used for smaller projects. Because they are small and compact, they are often used in hard to reach areas or any projects where access is an issue. They are ideal for cutting bricks, concrete pipes, floors, and walls.
- Floor Saw – these are used to cut mostly flat surfaces like roads, pavements, floors, slabs, and much more.
- Wall Saw – wall saws usually require a track-mounted system because they are used on vertical surfaces. Wall saws are used to make openings for windows, doors, ventilation ducts, etc. They are also called a track saw.
- Wire Saw – wire saws are made of diamond-laced cables that are pulled through concrete to get the job done.
Choosing The Right Concrete Saw
It is important to know what, how and when you are cutting the concrete so you can use the right concrete saw that is perfect for the job.
When you have determined what type of concrete saw you need, you can start by following these steps:
- Determine the type of blade you will be using – are you using a corundum or diamond blade, handheld or walk-behind? Depending on the usage and how it is powered, you can start choosing the size and the type of blade you will use.
- Enclose the blade with a blade guard – this is a major safety requirement. Do not operate a saw without a blade guard. This is to protect the user from any accident or bodily harm.
- Add a water pump or a water source – a wet saw poses fewer health hazards compared to dry saws. Incorporate a built-in water pump so your concrete saw will produce less dust.
Adjustments will have to be made if you are going to assemble a cordless, electric or gas-powered concrete saw.
Safety Tips
When assembling your DIY concrete saw, make sure that you have turned the power off. Always use complete protective gear.
Saw blades, whether diamond or conundrum made, are very dangerous. SAFETY FIRST! It is better to be safe than sorry.
If you are looking for a specialist concrete cutting company who uses only the best practices to get the job done right, then please call us at Megasaw on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website.