A pneumatic concrete saw is an air-driven cut-off saw used to cut concrete, masonry and asphalt where a petrol or electric saw cannot be used. Vikay supplies concrete saws from India in the class corresponding to the Chicago Pneumatic CP 0044.
Air is the practical power source for cutting in three situations: underwater and in flooded workings, where electricity is out of the question; in tunnels and confined spaces, where petrol exhaust cannot be ventilated; and in atmospheres where an ignition source is not acceptable.
The saw runs a diamond or abrasive blade with water feed, which suppresses dust and cools the blade. Because the motor is pneumatic, it can be stalled in the cut without damage and restarted immediately, and it has no exhaust emissions at the tool.
Typical applications are tunnel and shaft work, underwater cutting, demolition openings in occupied buildings, utility and pipe cutting, and any confined space where fumes or electrics are prohibited.
When should a pneumatic concrete saw be used instead of a petrol saw?
- Underwater or in flooded workings, in tunnels and confined spaces where exhaust cannot be ventilated, and wherever combustion or electrical ignition sources are not permitted.
Can it be stalled in the cut?
- Yes. A pneumatic motor can be stalled without damage and restarted immediately, unlike an electric motor which can burn out.
Does it need water?
- Wet cutting is normal practice with a diamond or abrasive blade. Water suppresses dust and cools the blade, which extends blade life and controls silica exposure.