For operators cutting pipe in the trench, circular cutoff saws have long been the preferred choice of power tool. But the comfort afforded by familiarity comes with the increased risk of kickback-related injury or death.
ICS Diamond Tools, a division of Blount International, engaged a world-leading research university to conduct an independent research study to measure kickback energy for circular cutoff saws and abrasive chainsaws when cutting pipe in the trench.
The independent research study focused on pinch-derived kickback in an effort to better predict kickback risk to saw operators. Researchers developed a mathematical model and designed, built and tested a kickback machine to evaluate the phenomenon, focusing on differences between circular cutoff saws and abrasive chainsaws. The model allowed for the direct comparison and results showed that kickback energy of the circular cutoff saw is nearly twice that of the abrasive chainsaw.
Using an abrasive chainsaw also allows more control of the tool without having to reposition themselves around the pipe — or reposition the blade guard for the final cut as they do with circular cutoff saws, which is when the danger of kickback increases significantly. WW
Learn more about ICS Diamond Tools at www.icsdiamondtools.com.
