For demolition, particularly of concrete structures, a diamond rocksaw driven by an excavator can be an invaluable tool. Its advantages over other methods include
Echidna diamond rocksaws come in a range of models to suit excavators from 900kg up to 60 tonnes, with high speed models specifically designed for cutting reinforced concrete.
Echidna also produces guide rails which make the saw into a very powerful wall saw unit that does not need to be bolted onto the cut structure. The excavator arm lifts, rotates, tilts and holds it in its place on a wall while cutting. With no time wasted with fixtures it can then move onto the next cut.In Australia, safety and high productivity are important factors in choosing between work methods. A rocksaw operated from the safety of an excavator cabin has distinct advantages over hand operated tools. Where there is an automatic brake on the saw blade, the operator cannot touch the spinning blade, and is protected from falling or flying debris. It can be used to reach locations which would be risky for a workman with a hand held concrete saw.
Excavator concrete saws can outperform road cutter saws in terms of cutting speed and flexibility. While push-along road cutters are limited to horizontal cutting, excavator saws can be used to cut walls and over rough terrain. Low vibrations allow for cutting in sensitive or unstable areas. Where demolition is occurring in built up areas, hydraulic breakers can cause cracking in adjacent structures. With the reach of an excavator, the rocksaw can be used to cut unsupported structures such as bridges.