Why You Should Use Hydraulic Equipment

In 2019, Canada began building the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Concrete work was involved because the material is versatile, durable, and strong enough to support large-scale structures. 

The job also requires equipment to cut through the substance. For example, poured concrete needs expansion joints cut into it to control post-set cracking.

However, concrete cutting is difficult because of its durability, so you should consider a hydraulic saw to shear the material. There are also other reasons to use hydraulic equipment.

Below are the benefits of hydraulic tools, when you should use them, and if they have limitations. 

Benefits of Hydraulic Equipment

Two primary reasons to opt for a hydraulic saw for concrete cutting are because it's precise and shears deeply. You predrill holes to make a "track" for the saw. This track will outline the exact shape and size to cut. 

The Dragon Ring Saw is especially good at slicing deep into concrete. It can reach 20 inches deep into concrete or block. Hydraulic saws also keep their surroundings cleaner. 

These machines run hot while operating, so they need water to keep them cool. The water serves a second function by washing away dust. The reduced dust keeps workers safer and makes cleaning afterward easier. 

Hydraulic saws are faster and quieter because they can run on motors and make fewer vibrations. The remote control function exposes fewer workers to danger, so they're a safety alternative to chainsaws.

A hydraulic saw system doesn't need as much room to work as a chainsaw. They're better choices for hard-to-reach areas and underwater work because they don't need manual operation. 

When Should You Use Hydraulic Saws? 

We've already mentioned how hydraulic tools are the best equipment when working in confined spaces or underwater. These saws are also helpful to remove whole sections of concrete. 

Here are other situations where a hydraulic saw would be beneficial: 

• Cutting through steel-encased concrete
• Cutting through concrete-encased steel supports
• Shearing concrete retaining walls
• Shearing reinforced bar

You can expect a hydraulic saw to cut through most types of reinforced concrete. These saws' primary limitation lies in the blade diameter. Blade sizes are restricted because larger blades are hard to manage. 

The other drawback is more of a user issue. Workers will need the experience to use this concrete equipment. Cutting concrete isn't easy.

Thin slabs are prone to cracking, while thick concrete is hard to cut through. It takes skill to learn how to shear this substance, especially with a tool that can be remotely controlled. 

Are You Having Trouble Cutting Concrete? 

The concrete industry is enormous thanks to how valuable the substance is. This usefulness - specifically, its toughness, is also a disadvantage. Concrete cutting is not a simple task. 

Hydraulic equipment can make the job easier, but your tools are only as good as where you purchase them.

ACG Saws & Tools operates from Ottawa, Ontario, and is a reliable source of hydraulic saws and other concrete equipment that ships internationally. Contact us at ACG if you want to know more about our products and services.