Safety Measures During Concrete Cutting
The first safety consideration during concrete cutting will be an understanding that concrete dust can be injurious to the alveoli of the lungs, irritate they eyes, and also damage the finish of many types of furnishings.
Consequently, it is important to have a method to contain concrete dust. Two methods that are commonly employed to control dust are wet cutting, where dust is trapped in the cooling water and the use of a pneumatic system to remove dust that is similar to a vacuum cleaner.
When you are using an abrasive concrete cutting disk or a diamond blade, cooling water will be used to lubricate the cutting service and reduce the temperature of the blade that will become elevated due to the high level of friction during cutting. You should also ensure that there is a method for water to be removed from the cutting service. There should be a drainage or vacuum system to remove the water from your cutting surface.
Since concrete cutting tools that are electrically powered will generally draw a large current, it is extremely important that you ensure that all of your equipment is properly grounded and that all electrical insulation is in place and not worn, in order to reduce the chance of an electrical shock.
Concrete Cutting Technique
In general, thicker surfaces are more difficult to cut. Surfaces that are less the 10 cm in thickness can be cut fairly easily with a hand saw. Cutting concrete that is thicker than 15 cm takes professional expertise in order to perform safely.
The surface of the area to be cut should be marked with a chalk line prior to beginning to cut. A 15 ampere circular saw that has an abrasive or diamond blade should be used and the depth of your cut should be set at 5 cm.
Begin sawing at the concrete brim and gradually follow the chalk line you have marked on the concrete. You can reduce the temperature of the blade and reduce dust by periodically apply water to it.
Cutting Concrete More Than 10 cm Deep
You should utilise an electric or gasoline powered cut-off saw when you need to cut concrete that is in excess of 10 cm in depth. A cut-off saw will enable you to cut up to 15 cm in depth. Many housing foundations, driveways, concrete and basement walls are 10 to 15 cm thick.
As before you should outline the area to be cut with chalk. Set your cutting depth at the appropriate level and begin your cut. Proceed gradually, maintaining your cut-off saw’s line. Maintain the speed of the saw so that it does not overheat and cause shrapnel and debris to be propelled through the air due to a broken blade. Applying water to the blade can also help prevent it from overheating.
It is also helpful to have an assistant remove concrete dust from your chalk line as you are cutting so you can clearly view your cutting line and it also helps to control the concrete dust.
Concrete cutting is an essential part of many construction jobs. If it is not executed carefully, it can be dangerous, particularly for deeper cuts. However, if the proper personal protective equipment is worn, and safety procedures are adhered to, this risk will be minimal.
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