How to cut asphalt? Selecting an asphalt cutting machine based on technical characteristics

Asphalt is cut using a special tool called a joint cutter. It allows you to process not only asphalt pavements, but also concrete ones, including those with reinforcement. When choosing a device, you should analyze several technical characteristics, described in detail in this material.

Device type

There are 3 main classifications of the cutter - based on the size of the diamond-coated disk and the features of the engine design. In the latter case, there are 3 categories of equipment:

• electric;
• diesel;
• petrol.

If we talk about the diameter of the diamond disc and the cutting depth, there are also 3 groups:

1. Small (small diameter in the range of 300-400 mm). In this case, the depth does not exceed 170 mm.
2. Medium - a cut to a depth of more than 300 mm is possible, while the diameter ranges from 600 to 800 mm.
3. Large - allows you to install discs whose diameter can reach 1200 mm. At the same time, the cutting depth is maximum and reaches 500 mm.

Specifications

To figure out how to cut asphalt, you need to study the basic technical parameters of the tool. These include the type of motor (depending on the power source), the disc cutter and other indicators described below.

engine's type

The type depends on what the engine is running on. According to this indicator, electric, gasoline and diesel units are distinguished.The former operate almost silently and do not produce any emissions. But the power of the devices is not so high, and besides, they are “tied” to the power grid. Typically, such devices are used for indoor work.

Gasoline cutters are much more powerful, but they make a lot of noise and produce exhaust fumes. In addition, the devices require regular maintenance - sometimes every day. They are used only on the street.

There are also diesel vehicles. They are autonomous and at the same time develop the greatest power. At the same time, they produce a strong exhaust and noise. They are used exclusively outdoors, and for professional and not domestic purposes.

Power

The power of the device is also of great importance; it varies, ranging from 1.2 to 3 kW, rarely more. The choice depends on where the cutter is intended to be used. So, for domestic use, a power of 1.5 kW is sufficient. If you intend to use it for professional purposes, you should consider models with a characteristic of at least 2 kW.

Cutting depth

Another important characteristic that many buyers pay attention to first. For home use, a depth of 500 mm is sufficient. An inexpensive electric cutter can provide this.

For professional use, gasoline and diesel units are used. They cut seams up to 500-800, and sometimes up to 1000 mm deep.

Disc cutter

The cutter is the main element of the carver, which makes the seams. It is selected based on the outer diameter, as well as the characteristics of the diamond coating. The edges of the disk are represented by several segments, which can be simple or sandwich.

Spraying on simple cutters occurs in a uniform layer, but on sandwich cutters it is distributed so that as one layer is ground off, the second one opens.

Thus, if you choose a cutter for home use, it is better to choose electric models. For work on an industrial scale, diesel and gasoline units are usually purchased. In this case, the depth of cut, type of cutter and other parameters are taken into account.