Masonry Magazine April 2009 Page. 21
Sometimes, new products are designed with a lot of bells and whistles, but marginal benefits. The latest power cutters, masonry saws, and cut off machines are different. They're loaded with new technologies to protect the engine, cut 28-inch masonry materials, or increase run times. Masonry contractors will also benefit from less vibration, more power, and better performance. Here's a look at what contractors can expect.
Smart engines eliminate costly repairs
HUSQVARNA CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS NORTH AMERICA in Olathe, Kan., figured out how to eliminate the problem of workers burning up engines by using the wrong fuel. The five-horsepower engines on the new 12- and 14- inch K750 power cutters have Oil Guard, which protects the engine from improper fuel.
"If a hardscaper is using temporary labor, and there's a lot of gas on the jobsite gas and oil mixtures, regular gas, diesel you don't have to worry about the wrong gas being used," says Mike Ward, Husqvarna product manager for power cutters. A sensor detects if the engine has the correct oil, based on the dye concentrate in the two-cycle oil and gas mixture, Ward says. If the wrong oil or no oil is used, the engine won't run above an idle.
"The biggest problem that we run into with high-speed saws is when the saws don't run on the gas and oil mix. It's a very expensive repair. The cylinders are ruined," says Andy Lundberg, product manager for tile and masonry for Husqvarna. "You can't, no matter how hard you try, ruin these [K750] saws. They have to have oil to run."
Ward says Husqvarna also launched an electric power cutter that's capable of wet cutting. The K3000 Electric has GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) protection built into the machine for safety and convenience.
"You can cut wet, which gives you dust suppression, so you can cut indoors," Ward says. Strategically placed nozzles shoot water onto the blade, which gives the blade the correct amount of water needed for cutting, "You have less slurry to clean up at the end of the day."
Increased cutting capacity for large pavers
AT LEAST ONE MANUFACTURER is responding to the popularity of large pavers by offering a powerful saw capable of cutting oversized, thick materials. Earlier this year, MK Diamond Products Inc. unveiled its newest masonry saw, the MK-1280, that features a 16-inch blade that cuts to a depth of six inches, says Brian Delahaut, VP of the Torrance, Calif.-based company.
We Saw It All. Perfectly!
MK Diamond saws are engineered for durability and precision cutting
BX-4 Wet/Dry 14" Masonry Saw
Lightweight masonry saw with heavy-duty direct drive 1-3/4 HP motor and a unique misting system to reduce dust. It features a built-in water pump and a removable air filter for easy cleaning.
MK-2005G Pro Wet/Dry 14" Masonry Saw
Designed for the professional featuring 5" depth of cut and open-back allowing 16" long material to be easily cut. Powered by a Honda gas GX160 Cyclone engine.
MK-5010 Super-Matic Electric Saw
Heavy-duty industrial block saw that can be customized to make your job easier. It is loaded with countless safety and performance innovations not found on any other saw in its class. Built strong and tough, with hand- made craftsmanship in America.