Cut-Off Machine or Diamond Chainsaw?

Cut-off machines and diamond chainsaws are the two most common concrete cutting tools, and their uses overlap quite a bit, but they are not interchangeable. By understanding the differences between these two types of equipment, employees will be able to make the best suggestions to your customers, resulting in the most successful rentals. 

Cut-off machines -- the industry standard


The choice of power source depends on the application. According to Tom Carroll at CS Unitec, electric saws are popular with homeowners because they're lightweight, less noisy and simpler to use than other types of cut-off machines. They aren't as powerful, however, and can take longer to complete a job.

"Homeowners won't know they're missing that power," notes Kevin Axt at Hilti. "For professionals, an electric cutter is preferred in enclosed environments. In cases like those, it's less about performance and more about what's needed in that particular environment."



Pneumatic saws are also convenient for contractors, since air compressors are ubiquitous on jobsites. Operation is simple and has fewer potential hazards, Carroll says. "If the blade stalls, you just release the air pressure," he says, adding that there's also no risk of fluid leaks. Pneumatic saws are lightweight and simple to maintain as well. 

Axt at Hilti points out that pneumatic saws can be more expensive to use, however, due to the need for a compressor and diesel fuel to power it. 

Most popular among the various types of cut-off machines are gas-powered saws. These saws offer the advantage of portability and familiarity, as most users have operated gas-powered equipment before. They do require more maintenance, however. 

Besides power requirements and maintenance, there's also the question of weight vs. performance. Operators appreciate a lighter saw because they're easier to use, but there is a trade-off. "It depends on what the customer really wants," says Axt. "If the saw is lighter, it will cut shallow with more passes, so it might take longer. A heavier saw, on the other hand, will cut deeper and faster, but is heavier, which can make it harder to handle for some operators."


There are several things customers should be aware of when renting a cut-off machine. "The rental professional and the end-user should read, understand and follow the directions and warnings in the instruction manual," says Steve Parmentier, manager of strategic accounts at Stihl Inc. "Each end-user should be given a copy of the instruction manual when renting a cut-off machine, or any power tool. The rental dealer should also have personal protective equipment available, and it should be offered to all rental customers." 

Diamond chainsaws meet a unique need



A gas saw with a 12-inch depth of cut is the most common in rental companies. There are hydraulic diamond chainsaws that can cut to a 25-inch depth. A 14-inch circular blade on a cut-off saw is designed for a maximum depth of slightly less than five inches.

"Because a diamond chainsaw uses a guidebar with a long narrow flat surface, the saw can provide a deeper cut with no overcut, allowing the operator to make square corners. This is not possible with a circular blade," Bray says. "Diamond chainsaws not only cut deeper with no overcuts, but they can be used to make openings as small as 4"x4"x the cutting depth of the bar. They are also useful in creating odd-shaped cuts in material."

When selecting a diamond chainsaw, the most important thing for a rental business to consider is whether the customer needs to cut openings deeper than five inches. "If the answer is yes, then a diamond chainsaw is the right tool," says Bray. "Most rental companies begin with a gas-driven two-cycle engine, as it offers portability and a lower initial investment." ICS recommends at least an 80cc engine which can use either a 12- or 14-inch cutting-depth guidebar.

If the rental company has contractors with significant cutting needs, they might want to consider a hydraulic or pneumatic diamond chainsaw, which have more power and can utilize guidebars for openings up to 25 inches. 
