Tag: belly saw

Underground cutting for utility repairs has evolved. Public utility companies have used a variety of cutting tools for in-trench pipe repair
In the past, such as gas construction saws, reciprocating saws, snap cutters, and other methods to remove sections of a damaged pipe.

Today’s workforce recognizes the need for safer, dedicated equipment designed to solve this job. Because of this, workers are moving away from conventional handheld rotary-blade machines that can be difficult to operate in confined spaces with tools attached to the pipe.

In this blog, we explore how underground cutting technology—especially innovations like air-powered chainsaws and the belly saw—has made in-trench pipe repair safer, faster, and more efficient.

The “Belly Saw”: Underground Cutting at the Bottom of the Pipe

For over 30 years, U.S.SAWS has been an innovator in underground cutting equipment and innovative tools for the water and sewer industry. Our modified grinding systems, specialized cutting blades, and emissions-free air-powered tools help reduce injury risk. Attachment systems that secure the tool to the pipe also reduce kickback potential in the trench.

U.S.SAWS designed the belly saw to cut the bottom part of a pipe safely and efficiently. The saw straps to the pipe with a roller assembly, allowing it to move freely around the pipe’s diameter and produce a straight, burr-free cut. The most popular version of this tool can cut pipes from 8″ to 24″ in diameter, with additional models available for 24″–48″ and 48″–72″ diameters.

One key advantage is a limited depth of cut—about 1 ¼″—which keeps the blade from dragging in residual water and reduces the horsepower required during the cut. In real-world utility work, the belly saw remains one of the most cost-effective, fast, and safe underground cutting options available.

Underground Cutting Chainsaws Built for Wet Environments

Pipe-cutting chainsaws have transformed underground utility repairs over the last decade. These machines can cut ductile iron, cast iron, PVC, AC pipe, and more. Because the air-powered chainsaw runs on pressurized air, it can operate underwater and in extremely wet conditions without disadvantage.

To increase usefulness and safety, U.S. Saws offers pipe clamp and roller assemblies that secure the saw to the pipe during cutting, providing a stable, precise setup for bottom-up cuts. This approach delivers several benefits in the repair process:

• Residual water drains out through the bottom cut.
• The bar moves away from the operator, helping avoid kickback.
• Minimal user effort is required.
• A small tab of pipe can be left at the top to secure the workpiece until final removal.

Moving Away from Gas-Powered Handhelds in Underground Cutting

Removing gas-powered handheld devices from the trench has been a U.S.SAWS mission for many years. With the development of the belly saw and the air-powered pipe-cutting chainsaw and hydraulic belly saw, operators gain clear advantages in safety, precision, and convenience during underground cutting and repair work.

Standards & Safety References for Underground Cutting

Cutting inside a trench or excavation must follow established safety practices. Crews should confirm trench protections and air-tool safety before work begins and follow post-repair disinfection procedures when cutting potable water lines.

• Trenching & Excavation: protective systems, safe access within 25 ft, and engineered designs for deeper trenches (OSHA Trenching and Excavation Fact Sheet).
• Pneumatic/Air-Powered Tools: secure hose connections with safety clips and retainers; inspect air hoses regularly (OSHA 29 CFR 1926.302(b)).
• Confined Spaces in Construction: assess whether the trench qualifies as a permit-required confined space (29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA).
• Water Main Disinfection: follow AWWA C651 Standards for disinfecting new or repaired potable mains.

Operators can choose from air-powered or hydraulic belly saws depending on site conditions, pipe size, and available power sources.

Quick Pre-Cut Checklist for Underground Cutting Crews

Verify trench protection and safe egress are in place (NIOSH Trenching Safety Overview).

• Inspect the air-powered chainsaw/belly saw and pneumatic hose connections.
• Strap and mount the tool securely before making a bottom-up cut to drain residual water and minimize kickback.
• Confirm material and diameter range (ductile iron, cast iron, PVC; 6–72″ options).
• Coordinate disinfection and flushing for potable mains per AWWA C651 after repairs.

FAQs Under Ground Cutting Tools

What materials can an air-powered pipe-cutting chainsaw handle?

Ductile iron, cast iron, PVC, AC pipe, and other common utility materials.

Why is a bottom-up cut safer in a trench?

It allows water to drain, directs the bar away from the operator, and reduces kickback when combined with a pipe-mounting device.

What pipe sizes does the belly saw cover?

Standard models cut 8″–24″, 24″–48″, and 48″–72″ diameters.

The Future of Underground Cutting – Final Thoughts

Underground cutting continues to evolve as safety standards tighten and technology advances. Tools like the belly saw and air-powered pipe-cutting chainsaw show how innovation can reduce risk, improve precision, and simplify complex in-trench repairs. At U.S. Saws, decades of engineering experience and field testing have shaped a product line designed specifically for the challenges of confined-space utility work. From water and sewer systems to municipal maintenance teams, U.S. Saws remains committed to delivering reliable underground cutting solutions that keep crews safe, efficient, and compliant on every job.