Here Are Our Top 5 Tips to Look for in a Concrete Cutter

Products for cutting concrete and industrial materials are a necessity across most jobsites in the construction industry. When purchasing a concrete cutting product, there are a number of important factors to consider to ensure a quality investment. Industry trends play an instrumental role in product development and can result in game-changing technology. With the end-user in mind, manufacturers continue to release new products which respond to market demand and changes within the industry.

1. Lightweight

Thanks to ever-improving technology, a small package can now pack a powerful punch. A well-engineered, lightweight design helps to increase maneuverability, while providing the power needed to get the job done. Reduced operator fatigue from a lighter product may prevent the need to take a break to rest, decreasing overall time spent on the job. As technology continues to advance, products will become even lighter and easier to maneuver. Industry professionals want equipment that is easy to carry around, and it is a priority of manufacturers like Stihl to meet the needs of the market.

2. Dust Control

Across the concrete industry, stricter construction regulations and elevated attention to the health risks triggered by the inhalation of silica dust has led to an increased focus on dust control. One of the most effective dust suppression techniques when cutting concrete is using water to bind the dust in a liquid slurry before it gets a chance to enter the air. At Stihl, a recently launched feature called electronic water control is being used more frequently. An electronic water control allows the operator to squeeze the throttle trigger and automatically start water flow to the cutting tool. Once the throttle has been released, water flow quickly ceases to stop the flow of unnecessary water in between cuts.

Additionally, health concerns and construction regulations prevent industry professionals from using gasoline-powered tools indoors, requiring virtually every concrete cutting job to be done outside. A low- or zero-exhaust emissions concrete tool is a valuable additional asset to a construction professional’s arsenal of equipment. For example, the battery-powered Stihl TSA 230 Cutquik cut-off machine offers great jobsite access, allowing users to cut indoors and at other locations where traditional gasoline-powered cut-off machines are not permitted or sensible. Products with an onboard water connection and control help to suppress dust when wet cutting concrete. An optional pressurized water tank provides water flow when a water hose is not accessible, and an available depth guide with vacuum adapter reduces dust when operating where water cannot be used.

3. Power and Ease of Use

When looking for options to ease environmental and health concerns and reduce time and money spent on the job, it’s important not to sacrifice power and ergonomics. The current trend is toward products that offer comfortable and simple operation without compromising power. Equipment that features a lightweight build and excellent maneuverability are of high value.

With new technology, battery-powered products can offer superior cutting performance and control. Cut-off machines driven by a low-maintenance, brushless, commercial-grade, high-torque electric motor create little noise. While battery-powered cut-off machines continue to gain popularity, contractors still need the power and the cut depth available on gasoline powered handheld cut-off machines. At Stihl, we have seen a strong interest in electronically controlled fuel injection which provides for easier starting and a higher power to weight ratio.

4. Versatility in Cutting Capability

Professionals are not limited to one type of task or cutting material on the jobsite and may prefer a tool capable of making more than one type of cut. Deep cutting, an application used in renovations, is becoming a popular service offered by general contractors in addition to general construction, hardscaping and design-build. In previous years, subcontractors had to be hired for deep cutting tasks, adding onto project costs and time. Owning one tool that can meet various cutting needs is ideal for industry professionals. Tools featuring a large maximum cut depth enable general contractors to offer these deep-cutting services themselves, helping to reduce internal costs. Concrete cutting saws are further empowered when combined with chains specifically designed to deliver high cutting speed, smooth cuts and good performance during plunge cuts, at an affordable price.

5. Cost and Time Efficiency

With any equipment purchase, professionals should look for products that provide opportunities to reduce their operating costs and time spent on the job. In addition to decreased impact on environmental and health implications, low- or zero-emissions products are ideal for saving users time and money. A battery-powered concrete cutter is a great addition to a fleet of gas-powered equipment as it features instant starts and makes switching between tasks easy. The cost of fuel is eliminated as well as the need to stop for refueling. Products that deliver higher fuel efficiency than a standard two-stroke engine are an excellent option for those who prefer gasoline-powered equipment, allowing users to save refueling time and money during construction and renovation projects.

Dan Pherson is a product manager for Stihl Inc., based in Virginia Beach, Va.