World of Concrete 2023!

The World of Concrete will be taking over Las Vegas Convention Center from January 16-19, 2023! This annual extravaganza of all things concrete will provide access to over 160 educational opportunities in the areas of technical, business, and safety development, including interactive workshops, industry certifications, and overviews of cutting-edge tech like 3D printing, fiber reinforcing, and mass concrete. The Women’s Association of Concrete Professionals, the FORGE Foundation, the National Association of Hispanic Contractors, Family Business Institute, AAC Worldwide, and Modern WorkTruck Solutions are also on board as new educators at this year’s convention providing insight on a variety of current events and updates in the area of concrete and its impact on business and society.

This convention also has its fair share of exciting events. A silent and live auction will be held on January 18, 2023. Items up for auction include not only equipment and supplies relevant to the concrete world, but also vacation packages and electronics like televisions and computers. This auction funds many Construction Industry Management programs at public universities across the country.

The Weatherington Award Presentation Competition will take place on January 16, 2023. This competition allows three students from each Construction Industry Management Program to make a presentation reflecting the individual student’s experiences in research activities and coursework and how those lessons learned will impact their careers in the concrete industry. The winner will receive recognition as the award winner and will also receive a $2,500 scholarship award.

One can’t-miss event is the 2023 Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 World Championship, taking place January 18, 2023. This lively event sees skilled masonry apprentices, block layers, and world-class brick layers go head to head to win bragging rights as the World’s Best Bricklayer. Also up for grabs for the winner who displays the perfect combination of skill, speed and stamina is a prize package worth over $125,000.

The best part of World of Concrete 2023 will be all of the exhibitors on display. This is a wonderful opportunity to network with concrete industry leaders from around the country to showcase products, generate valuable leads, and boost sales.

Make sure to stop by the U.S. SAWS booth. You will be able to find us at the South Hall, Booth S11307. We will also be doing demonstrations in the Silver Lot, Booth O31658 where you can see us in action with our Mark-III Dust Buggy, Ultra Vac 1250G, One Man Polymer Pump and MC-45.

The Rise of Propane-Powered Tools and the Benefits on a Job Site

Propane is a popular alternative fuel. Also known as liquefied petroleum gas, it is a clean-burning fuel, used for decades for lighting, heating, and power generation. As technology improves, the use of propane on job sites has grown due to its affordability, reliability, and versatility. As an added bonus, tools powered by propane last longer than electric-powered tools. This environmentally friendly fuel is also seeing rapid expansion due to an increase in green construction and environmentally-minded consumers.

Benefits of Propane-Powered Tools

Propane-powered tools are versatile and portable, making them ideal for off-grid worksites that have no access to electrical outlets. By having the power source fully contained in the tool or machine itself, propane-powered tools offer more freedom of movement by eliminating the need for a power cord. The elimination of the power cord also reduces job site injuries due to tripping or the tangling of cords. Further, propane cylinders housing the fuel are easy to transport between job sites and can even be stored on-site for maximum efficiency.

As the world turns towards more climate-friendly innovation, it is important to note that propane-powered tools reduce the emission of molecules that are harmful to the environment when compared to gas or diesel tools and machines. Consumers concerned with green construction will be happy to know that the use of propane over gas or diesel reduces carbon monoxide and greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere, working to limit the effects of global warming. Unlike gas, diesel, or other petroleum products, propane is recognized by the EPA as a non-contaminant of soil, water, and air, further reducing any potential harmful effects from tools and machines used on job sites. As an added bonus, this equipment can be used both outdoors and indoors, provided there is proper ventilation.

Keeping a watchful eye on your bottom line is key to maximizing the profits of any construction business. By using propane-powered tools, contractors can ensure they are using the most cost-effective supplies as possible. Propane costs half the price of gas or diesel. With skyrocketing gas prices, being able to save money on fuel for tools and machines is critical to ensuring the viability of the business. Propane supply remains reliable in North America, allowing prices to remain consistent even as markets fluctuate around the world and OPEC increases or reduces oil production. As oil prices surge, the use of propane provides a long-term low-cost fuel solution for contractors and their businesses.

The use of propane on job sites even comes with certain rebates and incentives for business owners. For instance, the state of Florida offers both rebates and incentives for business and farm owners who utilize propane for irrigation (up to a $2,500 rebate per approved propane irrigation engine), commercial mowing (up to $1,000 rebate per approved propane mower), heating and power (up to $1,500 incentive for builders who utilize propane equipment for heating and power in new builds and renovations), and a variety of farm necessities (including irrigation engines, grain dryers, flame weed control, and standby generators). The federal government also offers its own form of incentives for the use of propane in commercial buildings in the form of tax deductions for the use of energy-efficient materials.

U.S. Saws is a proud supplier of many propane-powered surface prep tools, including the JS-160 Propane Joint Clean-Out Saw. This powerful saw is powered by propane to make fast work of control joint fillers like polyurea and epoxy. This specialized tool is highly accurate and creates a safe working environment for its operator. It is equipped with a carbon monoxide monitor, a certified 479cc Briggs, and Stratton Vanguard V-Twin propane engine, polyurethane blade guard seals to reduce dust, and front and rear pointer guides for high-performance accuracy.  It has also earned a Certificate of Conformity with the Clean Air Act from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Save money and the Earth with propane. Contact U.S. Saws today to find out how to incorporate more propane-fueled tools into your business today.

 

Handheld Grinder vs. Walk-Behind Grinder

Concrete use is on the rise, not only for industrial settings but also for residential locations. In order to maintain concrete surfaces and maximize their shine, grinding down concrete is a must. There are a wide variety of grinder options available to contractors, but which one is right for your particular project?

What is a Concrete Grinder?

Concrete grinders are tools used to level uneven surfaces, prep current flooring for new coverings by removing paint, epoxies, stains, adhesives, and other coatings, polish concrete surfaces, clean concrete, and to both smooth rough surfaces and rough up smooth surfaces.

Concrete grinders are used as a finishing tool for floor restoration. They function by leveling and smoothing concrete surfaces through the use of rotating discs engineered with an abrasive grit of synthetic diamonds.

Handheld Concrete Grinders

Handheld grinders are small, versatile, and easy to use. Ideal for smaller projects, handheld grinders are efficient for tight spaces and for getting into corners. These lightweight tools are an excellent option for carrying and are flexible for in smaller areas where maneuverability may be an issue. While these grinders excel in tight areas, they are not suited for larger projects. A vital disadvantage to the handheld concrete grinder is that most lack a vacuum or dust collection system. Dust particles from concrete grinding are hazardous to your health when inhaled. If no dust collection system is available to you for your handheld grinder, ensure you have the proper safety equipment available, including a mask, to protect your lungs from harmful dust.

The U.S. Saws 7” Pro Grinder Package Metabo W24-230 is the perfect option for use on concrete for cleaning, leveling, and removing adhesives or other coatings. Equipped with a German-made Metabo W24-230 15 Amp, with 6,600 RPMs, this grinder not only comes with 2 – 7” 12 segment turbo cup wheels but also with a dust shroud to help reduce clean up time and the potential inhalation of hazardous concrete dust.

Walk-Behind Grinder

A walk-behind grinder is ideal for larger areas that do not require maneuverability or hard-to-reach surfaces. There are two types of walk-behind grinders: the rotary grinder and the planetary grinder. Rotary grinders are equipped with a single large pad that spins at a high speed. These grinders have a higher rotational speed and are much heavier than handheld grinders. They are the perfect option for projects that require the removal of heavy surface matter. Planetary grinders, on the other hand, use multiple pads that spin simultaneously but at different speeds. These grinders are able to not only remove material but also finish the floor at the same time. They are easier to maneuver than a rotary grinder and are more lightweight. Smaller jobs that do not require heavy restoration are ideal for planetary grinders, like finishing a garage floor.

Walk-behind grinders are versatile tools, ranging from single-disc machines to dual, triple, and even four-disc machines. Multi-disk grinders utilize counter-rotating discs which provide balanced torque, reducing any potential side-to-side pull from the grinder. These grinders offer a variety of power options, including electric, gasoline, and propane, for use in a variety of locations. Dust collection systems and/or vacuums are typically standard as more dust is released during larger jobs. Many walk-behind grinders are equipped with water mist systems enabling wet grinding, which reduces the amount of concrete dust released in the air and increases the sheen of the finished surface. The disadvantages of walk-behind grinders, while limited, are noteworthy. These grinders are not the right choice for small or hard-to-reach surfaces. They are also more expensive and, for the electric-powered versions, consume more electricity than their handheld counterparts.

The U.S. Saws TC-7 Stand-Up Edger is an innovative concrete grinder that provides the operator the feel of a handheld grinder while enabling the operator to remain in an upright position. A rear control lever adjusts the grinder pitch while a front handle allows for easy side-to-side movement, providing complete control over all aspects of the grinder. Ideal for small rooms, offices, kitchens, bathrooms, or even vertical surfaces, this grinder is much more efficient than a larger machine. As a further incentive, this exceptional machine is equipped with the U.S. Saws Generation 2 dust shroud system to ensure a clean work environment and dust-free lungs.

Which Option is Right for You – Handheld or Walk-Behind?

When deciding which grinder is right for you, it is important to bear in mind certain details: the size of the project, budget, type of concrete, and wet vs. dry grinding. Handheld grinders are the right option for small or DIY projects. They are lightweight and easy to use. Walk-behind grinders are ideal for large projects needing more power. Understanding the scope of the project and the location of the surface to be worked on is the first step to choosing the right grinder. Budgets are also vital in determining a grinder. Handheld grinders are the economic option while walk-behind grinders are more expensive and are a better option for those with a flexible budget. The right grinder choice is also dependent on the type of concrete. Harder surfaces will require a different grinder than softer surfaces. Another concern is wet or dry grinding. Wet grinding is messy, but drastically reduces the amount of dust in the air. Dry grinding causes a lot of dust, but the dust released is easily managed with a dust collection system. As walk-behind grinders are typically equipped with dust collection systems, they make a better choice for dry grinding.

 

Not all concrete grinders are created equal. Contact U.S. Saws today to speak with a professional about choosing the right concrete grinder for your project.

Pipe Beveling

Pipe beveling is one of the most important aspects and steps in the welding preparation process when it comes to pipe joining. When an end of a pipe is formed with a specific degree of an angle, this is called a bevel end. This type of beveling can be used to smooth the cut pipe ends for aesthetic and safety purposes as well. Pipe beveling becomes an important process because the quality of the specific pipe directly affects the welding quality. When two pipes need to be streamlined together to create a seamless joint, the welder or other professional will use a pipe beveler to cut off the edges of some of the parts. This can be a lengthy and difficult process to endure successfully, but it is important in most construction jobs when dealing with big piping.

What is a Pipe Beveler?

Pipe bevelers are suitable for a variety of uses for construction jobs dealing with piping. These materials can include cast iron, plastic, steel, and multi-layer pipe materials. Depending on the beveler you are using, small, medium, and larger pipes can be beveled quickly and efficiently. Because the most common piping is plastic, U.S.SAWS is the industry professional to provide you with the right tools and equipment for this type of pipe beveling.

U.S.SAWS Bevel Buddy | Cordless Pipe Beveler is an all-in-one solution for cutting PVC pipe. One of the only tools in the industry that provides a QUICK, EASY, and SAFE way to bevel plastic pipe. The cordless bevelling system allows the user to bevel pipe faster than would be possible with simple hand tools. Its compact size ensures that it will be useful at any site, big or small.

For any sewer piping project, U.S.SAWS Sewer Buddy Assembly | Cordless Pipe Beveler is your number one choice. This type of piping can be difficult, but this tool provides you with an easy-to-use function to be able to cut the thick plastic sewer piping. This system includes DeWalt cordless grinder, (2) batteries, 16-flute beveler, 4.5” Tiger Tooth™ blade, a carrying case, and wrenches to ensure you have all the necessary equipment to get the job done right.

Field repairs often allow little room to access the ends of the cut pipe. The U.S. SAWS bevel tools allow tight access with very little clearance required. Because this is a difficult process, knowing how and when to use pipe beveling is extremely important to ensure a consistent and smooth finish for the end result.

How to use a Pipe Beveler?

As you should do with most equipment, be sure to inspect your pipe beveler before starting your project. Ensure that everything is working properly, and that your equipment is charged enough to endure this long process to finish the job quickly and efficiently. Safety should always be a priority so goggles, gloves, and proper clothing should be worn for any precautions. Although the job may need to be done fast, making sure you and those around you are safe is more important.

Turn on the grinder and place the guide plate flat against the end of the pipe you are working on. Depending on the length needed, you will need to adjust the bevel by sliding the glide plate up or down to the desired length. Be sure to tighten the knob after this is done to ensure it is tight and will stay on the piping when used.

When it is time to start, place the router bit against the edge of the pipe until the bearing at the end of the bit is in full contact with the pipe you are working on. You are now able to slowly rotate the beveler in hand counterclockwise with the pipe. Be sure to always keep the bearing in contact.

When doing this process, you want it to be as smooth as possible for the finished result. If it isn’t as smooth as you want it, you may need to do this process a second time. Because there will be a lot of material left in the bit, be sure to remove any obstructions in the way before beveling for a second time.

These uneven bevels can happen if the guide plate is not kept at the correct angle to the pipe and the router bit of the bearing is not fully always connected to the pipe. It is extremely important to know what you are doing ahead of time before beveling PVC pipe. Not only can it be dangerous, but without proper training and knowledge, you can completely destroy the pipe which will affect the project as a whole.

Bevel vs. Chamfer:

Both processes remove material at an angle to the surface, removing imperfections from the potentially sharp edges of workpieces. The difference is the depth of the removal that is needed for your specific project.

A chamfer is technically a type of bevel but the difference between the two is that a bevel is an edge that is sloped, and a chamfer is an edge that connects two surfaces at a 45-degree angle. A bevel’s slope can be any angle except 90 or 45 degrees. The inside of a bevel will mostly be shaped as a rhombus, while a chamfer will usually be an octagon.

Beveling is used to remove material along the thickness of a pipe. As stated before, this process is done for welding purposes. It creates a proper surface to weld pieces of the pipe together when needed. Depending on the shape needed when beveling will depend on the strength of the welded part.

Chamfering is the removal of metal for cosmetic purposes. A perfect example of this is a countersink. Fasteners and screws are usually chamfered to ensure nothing is sticking above the primary surface worked on. Chamfering edged reduces the risk of gouging the edge of the hole as well. Along with this is ensuring there is no misalignment present on your surface as well. Many workers use these chamfered areas as a simple alignment guide as a “placement holder”.

Because both of these deal with specifics, they need to be done efficiently to ensure everything is done precisely. The reasons for using bevels and chamfers are to protect parts and provide the next step to be done more efferently. Before starting any project, it is important to know which technique will be the best for the overall aspect of the current job. 

Choosing the Correct Method:

Because there are so many different factors when dealing with pipe beveling, there are several methods to use. Before choosing a method, you need to be able to answer these questions so you know which one will be the most efficient:

  • How much time is available for your project?
  • Is a portable beveler necessary?
  • What are the specifications of all bevel requirements?
  • Is there a certain skill required to do this job efficiently?
  • Will electricity connectivity be a problem for this job?
  • Can the pipe or tube be brought to the located machinery?

Safety is always the main concern when using any construction equipment. Although portable bevelers don’t have many safety risks, they should still be used by professionals and always follow safety protocols before and after use.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How to Ensure Effective Beveling Practices?

Making sure you have the right tool for the job before you start is most important. Be sure to check if the equipment won’t release any dangerous or toxic fumes when using that could affect those around you. The tool you decide on using should be able to produce clean cutting edges that are done efficiently as well. Depending on the type of pipe you are using, speed matters. Make sure your equipment doesn’t sacrifice the overall quality but is able to get done in a good amount of time so you can continue with the project. Lastly, your equipment should be easy to adjust. Being able to have different adjusting features on your tool will make it easier for you to expand what you are able to cut for different projects on the job site. 

Why Do You Bevel Pipe?

Beveling is used to “alter” the shape of certain pipes to fit better during the welding process. Because many pipes won’t naturally fit together, beveling is an important process to ensure they will fit and stay connected throughout their lifespan. Because of this, this increases the surface area of the weld site and helps provide the pipes with stronger welds that are able to control the amount of stress put on them. This process reduces costs of repair and helps the entirety of the project you are working on stay on schedule because of the strong welds.

Pipe beveling also produces aesthetically pleasing results as well. It makes it more appealing and less of a messy situation.

What Are the Benefits of Buying a Portable Pipe Beveler?

Portable pipe bevelers make your life easier on the job site because of the high quality they bring. Because they are portable and easy to use, you are able to work more efficiently by making consistent cuts at a high level. They are rechargeable so you can pick them up and take them to any job you please; there doesn’t have to be any worry about hauling huge equipment to the job site with these portable bevelers. Portable bevelers can be controlled by one person and have minimum safety issues if you know how to properly use this piece of equipment. They are known for being quick and efficient, but also make it an investment worth paying for because of their low maintenance needs.

Should You Always Buy Top-Quality Pipe Bevelers?

When you are in the market for buying a pipe beveler for your next project, ensuring that you are getting your money worth should be the main concern. Buying used or unqualified equipment can lead to a loss of money and puts your project at risk of not being done properly. When dealing with PVC pipe, U.S Saws has high-quality pipe bevelers ready for your next job. Our bevelers are easy-to-use, rechargeable, and of the highest quality, you can get to ensure your project is a success.

The U.S.SAWS Bevelers are designed to bevel PVC and other plastic pipes to help reduce torn gaskets at joints. The Beveller is for underground pipe contractors, municipal water departments, and wholesale pipe sellers. The Beveller mounts to your existing cut-off saw or grinder with no special tools and can be easily removed when not in use.

 

U.S.SAWS is an innovator in the tool industry.  Pipe beveling requires the right knowledge and tools to get the job done the right way. Knowing what this process consists of and how to use this piece of equipment is essential. As there are many factors to consider for your next pipe beveler project, engaging with a company to help guide you will ensure your project is completed promptly and in the right manner. Contact U.S. Saws today to find all of your pipe beveler needs!

The Belly Saw

Contractors many times find themselves stuck in tight situations where large diameter pipe needs to be cut, but the conditions are not optimal for the use of industry-standard pipe cutters or saws to do this efficiently. Cutting pipe in cramped conditions can be a difficult process that needs to be done professionally and with the correct tools. That’s where the U.S. SAWS Belly Saw comes in and makes life a whole lot easier for those wet cuts in narrow spaces.

The Belly Saw is made for these specific wet conditions. The design of the saw is actually safer to operate than most other cutting tools.  This is important because you will be using this saw in harsh conditions so safety should always be the main priority.

About the Belly Saw:

The Belly Saw is designed for cutting pipe in wet conditions. The design of the saw is safer to operate than other cutting tools. The guard design completely covers the blade, and the saw straps to the pipe to prevent kickback. Most belly saws are used by contractors and utility workers for cutting subgrade pipes in tight conditions.  These saws are ideal for pipes ranging from 8 inches, all the way to 74 inches in diameter. The belly saw only needs about seven inches of clearance to use. This eliminates your time and effort of clearing out excessive amounts of dirt before the cutting process.

When a pipe bursts and cutting needs to be involved to make the repair, clearing out sludge around the pipe requires more manpower which increases the overall cost of the project. The belly saw gives you the ability for workers to make a quicker cut by reducing the amount of space needed for the initial entrance of the saw and doing it under safe conditions. 

Benefits of Belly Saws:

Cutting pipes with heavy-duty equipment is a dangerous aspect of the construction field. But with the AIR POWERED BELLY SAW from U.S. Saws, this type of job becomes easier and safer for everyone. With customer satisfaction a top priority in the design, U.S. Saws ensures that each saw is equipped with Tiger Tooth saw blades. These unique sharp blades lessen the cut time, which ultimately reduces the time using this saw. For different diameters of piping that you’re cutting, each blade is different, so the cuts are pristine.

Because safety is also a main concern, these saws are equipped with a clamshell design. The “shell” surrounds the saw and protects those using it from the sharp blades. This safety feature falls into how these saws are powered as well. Belly saws use hydraulic or air in small areas, so they don’t have to endure breathing in harmful fumes.

Belly saws are equipped with a strap you can attach to the pipe itself. When the strap is drawn around the pipe, this allows for a more accurate and faster cut for the pipe you are working on. This is an important aspect so you can have total control of the saw and move it the way it needs to be moved for the specific cut.

The main objective of the belly saw is to make “regular” jobs, easier. Cutting pipes in wet conditions can be dangerous, so U.S. Saws gives you the tools and knowledge to ensure everyone is safe and the job is done correctly. Belly saws can improve productivity and reduce the costs of mistakes that are bound to happen.

 

U.S. Saws is an innovator in the tool industry. Cutting pipes in wet conditions can be dangerous and extremely tough.  Belly saws are essential for all pipe cutting needs that will take your project to the next level.  As there are many factors to consider in choosing the proper saw, for your project, engaging with a company to help guide you to the right knowledge and tools will ensure the job is completed promptly in the right manner.  Contact U.S. Saws today to find the right belly saw to meet your specific cutting needs.

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