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Concrete Chainsaw. Tips from Professionals

Traditionally, chainsaws are believed to be used for wooden objects only. But there is a special class of chainsaws that can be used to cut concrete and all kinds of rocks and stones. People who work in the construction industry or mining would be familiar with this type. In this blog, I shall answer some of the most common queries most beginners and professionals have about concrete chainsaws.

Concrete chainsaw.

Concrete chainsaws are a robust version of traditional saws that use a diamond-coated chain cooled with water. They can be used to cut different types of concrete, bricks, masonry items, rocks, and even steel pipes/bars. Ensure that you turn on the water supply. Draw an initial outline on the concrete and score the outline with an initial cut of a few inches’ depths. Then cut out the entire outline by plunging the guide bar through the opposite surface of the concrete.

The short answer gives you a surface-level understanding of these saws. In this blog post, I will explain in more detail how concrete chainsaws work and how they should be used.

What is a Concrete Chainsaw?

A concrete chainsaw utilizes a powered chain for cutting concrete, bricks, tiles, and other masonry items. The chain’s cutting blades contain diamond grit which imparts extraordinary strength and endurance for action on tough surfaces.

Compared with regular wood-cutting chainsaws, concrete chainsaws use a much stronger and harder cutting chain to cut tough surfaces. The chain’s cutter teeth are laser welded with diamond segments which increase their hardness and endurance.

● How are they different from regular chainsaws?

There are two major differences between normal chainsaws and those that can cut concrete. The first is the chain material. Regular chainsaws use cutter blades made up of stainless steel, while concrete saws have diamond-coated blades. The second major difference is that concrete chainsaws have a pressurized water circulation instead of bar and chain oil in regular chainsaws.

The water helps to dissipate a large amount of heat produced due to the chain’s grinding action. Furthermore, it helps to wash away the dirt produced in the process. You should know that dust produced by grinding stone, marble, and rock is composed of crystalline silica particles. Exposure to these particles raises the risk of lung cancer and other breathing problems. To lower this dust formation, you should always turn on the water cooling.

Another very interesting feature of concrete chainsaws is that they are free of any kickbacks during operation. Regular chainsaws operate on wood which is a fibrous material due to which the chain often gets snagged in it. Whereas concrete is a non-fibrous, brittle structure, the chain doesn’t get caught in it, thereby reducing any kickback risk. Nevertheless, I still recommend wearing full protective gear while using concrete chainsaws.

● Where are these chainsaws used?

Concrete chainsaws find applications in the construction industry, demolition jobs, firefighting, and mining works. The thin guide bar coupled with the diamond-coated chain provides better precision and less material wastage. They are used to cut out sections in brick walls in firefighting emergencies. In addition, they can cut out certain small rocks while digging in mines or even while sculpting a statue. Compared to circular saws, their thin guide bars can make precise cuts with less over-cutting, which is accurate 90-degree edges.

Can a Chainsaw Cut Concrete?

A normal chainsaw can not cut concrete. But a specialized chainsaw with a diamond-coated chain material can cut through concrete. They can also be used to cut marble and all kinds of rocks and other stones.

Traditional chainsaws use a steel chain to cut through wood. The chain is lubricated with chain oil to ensure its longevity and performance. Concrete chainsaws use a pressurized water flow to achieve both cooling and dust control.

The harder the material that you want to cut, the harder the cutting tool needs to be. It needs to have a greater hardness than the material you are working on. The Mohs hardness scale makes a relative comparison between the hardness of various minerals. The scale ranges from 0-10, with 0 being the softest and 10 being the hardest material.

According to the Mohs scale, diamond stands at 10, thus having the maximum hardness amongst all the materials. In comparison to diamond, the Mohs hardness for ordinary steel falls between 4 and 4.5. While that of concrete stands between 6 and 7.

Looking at the hardness scale, it is clear that a regular steel chain would not suffice to cut concrete instead of the chain cutting the concrete. The concrete wears out the chain quickly, and it can be thrown away. A diamond-coated chain with the maximum hardness value is the solution for this. It can work on any type of concrete surface. Not only that, the diamond coating enables the chain to work on various other types of minerals such as coal, gypsum, quartz, etc.

How Fast Does a Concrete Chainsaw cut?

Generally, you can expect that a chainsaw can cut through concrete 1 foot x 6 inches deep in 2 to 3 minutes, without steel rebar. But the cutting speed of a concrete chainsaw depends on various factors. These include the concrete composition, amount of steel rebar, the chain’s overall quality, and the power of the chainsaw.

1. Aggregate type:

Aggregate is an essential concrete ingredient that imparts durability, hardness, and texture to the concrete surface. Typically, concrete is a mixture of three main components, i.e., cement, water, and aggregate. Examples of aggregate materials include sand, gravel, limestone.

When a hard aggregate material is used, it increases the time required to cut a unit length of concrete. The most usual example is quartz. Likewise, using a soft aggregate material like limestone makes it easier and faster for the chainsaw to cut concrete.

The size of the aggregate particle (also known as pitch) plays a vital role. It would be extremely difficult to cut a coarse specimen with over 1.5-inch gravel pitch. Whereas cutting more fine concrete with about 0.2-inch crushed gravel fragments is a much easier job.

2. Rebar:

Rebar consists of reinforced steel rods that provide tensile strength to the concrete structure. It becomes a bit tricky even for a professional to cut a concrete core with rebar. Not only does this affect the chain’s life, but it also adds to the additional working hours. It has been found that a 1% increase in steel content in a concrete core raises the cutting costs by about 2.5$/ft of concrete.

As a tip, always use low speed while cutting down steel. This may be time-consuming but would be easier for your cutting bits. Also, ensure that the water supply is kept a bit down too. Too much water coupled with high speed and heat could wear away the dry welds of the diamond segments.

How does a Concrete Chainsaw Work?

A concrete chainsaw works similarly to a regular chainsaw. It only uses a special diamond hardened chain, and instead of chain oil, water to cool the chain. It means you need a suitable water supply to use it.

Wielding a concrete chainsaw isn’t as straightforward as traditional wooden chainsaws. Let’s first look at the recommended steps that you should follow while using a concrete chainsaw:

● Step 1. Pre-Requisites:

Before starting with the job, there are some preparations you need to do:

  • Check the fuel tank: Before using the chainsaw, ensure that the engine is in optimal working condition and the fuel tank is topped up.
  • Examine the chain tension: Ensure that the chain tension is sufficient. The diamond chain must not sag unnecessarily down the guide bar. Nor should it be tightened to the extent that it is difficult to move it manually.
  • Check the safety features: Check if all the chains saw safety features are in working well. This includes the chain brake, the mud flap, and the slurry baffle. These mechanisms are there to direct the muddy water away from the engine while cutting.
  • Water supply: Water supply is critical to ensure the chain stays in working condition. Ensure the water delivered has a pressure of at least 20psi and a minimum flow rate of 4 liters/min.
  • Remove obstructions: Clear away all the obstructions from the concrete to be sawed. These may include electrical connections, plumbing lines, or ducts.
  • Wear safety gear: While using chainsaws, always wear PPE that should include a proper helmet with face-shield and earmuffs, gloves, steel-toed shoes, and chainsaw chaps for leg protection.

● Step 2. Plan the Cut:

  • Outline: Before cutting, draw an online on the concrete block using a marker. This acts as a visual guide while cutting.
  • Mark with the initial cut: Score the outline by plunging the guide bar about 1.5 inches deep into the concrete. Don’t cut through at this point. Rather make an initial cut (1.5 inches deep) along the outline. This helps in achieving a nice, straight finish. Always remember starting the cut from the bottom, then the top, and finally the sides.

● Step 3. Finish the Cut:

After scoring it initially, now use the plunge cutting method to cut out the marked section. This is done by plunging the guide bar through the cut-out at full throttle till it reaches the opposite surface. Plunge cut it throughout the outline until straight edges have been obtained and the cut-out has been removed.

It is important to apply a suitable feed force while plunge cutting. Make sure the feed force isn’t too high to drop the RPMs considerably. Once cut, handle the concrete block with caution. It is quite heavy and can injure a person if not dealt with carefully.

Will a concrete chainsaw cut rock?

A concrete chainsaw equipped with a diamond chain can cut all types of rocks, masonry items, bricks, and concrete.

Always consult the Mohs hardness scale to check if a concrete chainsaw would be useful against a specific material. The scale ranges from 0 to 10, with 10 being the hardness of diamond. This scale can help you compare the relative hardness of minerals and whether they can be conveniently cut with a diamond chain.

Will a concrete chainsaw cut rebar?

A concrete chainsaw can cut rebar, but it will shorten the diamond chain’s life. Rock the chainsaw up and down to cut rebar and concrete simultaneously. Use the wall walker as a pivot.

Cutting rebar with a diamond chainsaw isn’t as simple as cutting rock. Usually, straight plunge cutting isn’t an effective method in cutting down those steel rods as they are ductile. Make sure you always rock the chainsaw up and down to cut both the rebar and concrete simultaneously. A wall walker fulcrum is provided for this purpose. The fulcrum can be pressed against the wall and on rotating the handle up and down. This way, you can achieve a 4 to 1 mechanical advantage. This makes it a lot easier to cut the rebar.

How deep can you cut concrete?

The depth to cut concrete with a saw depends on the user’s expertise. Most beginners can cut through slabs that are less than 6-inches thick. If you are more experienced, you can cut through 12 to 14 inches of concrete. The maximum depth depends mainly on the bar length.

As the concrete becomes deeper than 6-inches, it becomes more challenging to handle the chainsaw as it tends to vibrate more. Most concrete walls are thick, so a beginner-level saw user can cut them if he uses the chainsaw properly and knows the correct technique. The typical length of a guide bar is 14-inches which defines the upper limit for the concrete that can be cut.

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  1. Cathy Graham says:

    Can you recommend a specific brand of concrete chainsaw?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      I recommend the Husqvarna K970 Chain Saw for cutting concrete. It’s a reliable brand known for its strong, diamond-coated chain. It’s perfect for construction and mining work.

  2. William Brooks says:

    Great explanation of how concrete chainsaws work!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, William! I’m glad you found the explanation helpful. If you have any more questions about concrete chainsaws, feel free to ask.

  3. Ron Spencer says:

    Very clear instructions on how to use a concrete chainsaw safely and effectively.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Ron! I’m glad you found the instructions helpful. Stay safe while using the concrete chainsaw!

  4. Connor Graham says:

    What safety precautions should one take while using a concrete chainsaw?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      When using a concrete chainsaw, always ensure proper water supply for cooling and dust control. Draw an outline, score it with an initial cut, then plunge cut through the concrete. Stay safe!

  5. Bella Cook says:

    Could you provide more details on the types of concrete that can be cut with these chainsaws?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your question. Concrete chainsaws can cut various types of concrete, rocks, stones, and even steel pipes. The diamond-coated chain ensures durability and precision in cutting different materials.

  6. Kenzi Andrews says:

    Great article for beginners looking to learn more about concrete chainsaws.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Kenzi! I’m glad you found the article helpful for beginners interested in learning about concrete chainsaws.

  7. Ruby Long says:

    I would love to see a comparison between different models of concrete chainsaws.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your interest! I will definitely consider creating a comparison between different models of concrete chainsaws in a future blog post. Stay tuned!

  8. Hazel Hudson says:

    Very informative article, learned a lot about concrete chainsaws.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Hazel! I’m glad you found the article informative. If you have any more questions about concrete chainsaws, feel free to ask.

  9. Tara Carpenter says:

    Is there a specific technique for plunge cutting with a concrete chainsaw?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, there is a specific technique for plunge cutting with a concrete chainsaw. Draw an outline, score it with an initial cut, then plunge the guide bar through the surface for a straight edge.

  10. Theodore Turner says:

    How often do you need to change the diamond-coated chain on a concrete chainsaw?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Concrete chainsaws with diamond-coated chains last longer than traditional chainsaws. The frequency of changing the chain depends on usage, but they are durable and well-suited for cutting tough surfaces like concrete.

  11. Carmen Graham says:

    Interesting to learn about the different uses of concrete chainsaws in various industries.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Carmen! I’m glad you found the information on concrete chainsaws interesting. Stay tuned for more detailed insights in upcoming posts!

  12. Gwendolyn Peck says:

    The section on cutting rebar with a concrete chainsaw was very helpful.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Gwendolyn! I’m glad you found the information on cutting rebar with a concrete chainsaw helpful. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

  13. Devon Cook says:

    Is it easy to find replacement parts for concrete chainsaws?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, replacement parts for concrete chainsaws are easily available. The diamond-coated chain is the most crucial part to look for. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for best performance.

  14. Wayne Chambers says:

    I had no idea that concrete chainsaws existed, very interesting read!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Wayne! Concrete chainsaws are truly fascinating tools with unique capabilities. I’m glad you enjoyed learning about them on my blog post.

  15. Marilyn Scott says:

    Can a concrete chainsaw be used for DIY projects at home?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Concrete chainsaws are perfect for DIY projects at home, just ensure you follow the correct steps and wear protective gear. Enjoy your project!

  16. Justin Morales says:

    What should one do if the concrete chainsaw gets clogged while cutting?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      If your concrete chainsaw gets clogged while cutting, make sure to turn off the saw first. Then check for any obstructions in the chain, clear them out, and ensure the water supply is on. Stay safe!

  17. Lauren Bell says:

    This article made me want to try using a concrete chainsaw!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Lauren! Be sure to follow the safety and usage guidelines when trying out a concrete chainsaw for the first time. Stay safe and enjoy the new experience!

  18. Chris Murray says:

    Do concrete chainsaws require special maintenance compared to regular chainsaws?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Concrete chainsaws require a diamond-coated chain and water cooling for optimal performance. They’re used in construction, mining, and firefighting industries. Make sure to follow safety guidelines while using them.

  19. Keith Henderson says:

    I never knew the Mohs hardness scale could be used to determine cutting tools, interesting!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Keith! I’m glad you found the information on the Mohs hardness scale and cutting tools interesting. Stay tuned for more insights on concrete chainsaws.

  20. Colleen Fox says:

    I appreciate the detailed explanation on how aggregate type affects cutting speed.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Colleen! I’m glad you found the explanation helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions about concrete chainsaws.

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