Dec 16 Concrete Openings

DECEMBER 2016

CELEBRATING 100 ISSUES • 1992–2016

W W W. C O N C R E T E O P E N I N G S . C O M

President’s Page

KEVIN BARON CSDA President

A

nother year has gone by and, like many before, it has been a year of progress and accomplishments for CSDA. The Board, committees and other active members within the association work very hard to make significant accomplishments for the benefit of the industry and its future. Here is a selection of just some of CSDA’s accomplishments throughout 2016, in no particular order: • The association graduated 115 people from four training classes at World of Concrete (WOC). This was an 83% increase over 2015.

• As part of the Construction Industry Safety Coalition, CSDA has responded to OSHA’s Final Silica Rule (released in March) and will be proactively fighting to repel/change the rule.

• CSDA cosponsored and presented at the Praxis event at WOC— a series of sessions and demonstrations targeted directly at industry specifiers.

• The association held its inaugural Robotic Demolition training course.

• An increased number of people came to the Next Generation reception in Las Vegas, roughly around 75.

• CSDA’s custom training structure at St. Petersburg College in Clearwater, Florida was rebuilt for our advanced Operator Certification courses.

• There was a 36% increase in first-time attendees at the CSDA 2016 Convention & Tech Fair in Palm Desert, California.

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This is just a sampling of what CSDA can accomplish in 12 months. There is so much more that is being done by our dedicated people every day for the advancement of our industry. Our success as an association is due to our strong and committed leadership that CSDA has at all levels. Our Executive Director, his assistant and staff are incredibly knowledgeable and committed. Our Officers and Board members are industry professionals with years of experience. Our committee chairs and committee members are tireless workers committed to making a difference. Last but not least, are the companies that support CSDA. All that we accomplish as an association is ultimately due to the employers, who make it possible for us to attend association events and commit time to its endeavors.

Thank you all, it has been a pleasure working with you this year.

Finally, I would like to congratulate CSDA on the release of the 100th official issue of Concrete Openings. This in itself is an amazing accomplishment. What started as a four-page black & white newsletter in the 1970s is now a fully-fledged industry magazine that is respected worldwide. I hope you enjoy reading through the retro issue attached and seeing what else this milestone issue has in store.

I look forward to seeing everyone next month at WOC in Las Vegas.

Please stop by the CSDA booth (#C4433), say hello and enter our daily raffle drawings.

Happy Holidays to all!

C O N C R ET E O PEN I N G S | 1

CSDA OFFICERS

CONCRETE CASES

President, Kevin Baron Western Saw, Inc. kevinb@westernsaw.com Vice President, Jack Sondergard Central Concrete Cutting, Inc. Jacksondergard@sprynet.com Secretary/Treasurer, Mike Orzechowski DITEQ Corporation mikeo@diteq.com Past President, Judith O’Day Terra Diamond Industrial joday@terradiamond.com Executive Director, Patrick O’Brien Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association pat@csda.org CSDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS (Terms expiring 2017)

Expansive Cutting Work

Specialty Contractor Prepares Port of Houston for Historic Expansion

8

Tim Beckman Cutting Edge Services Corp. beckman@cuttingedgeservices.com Matthew Finnigan National Concrete Cutting Inc. matthewf@nationalconcretecuttinginc.com Dan Foley Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. danfoley@cobraconcrete.com Greg Lipscomb Diamond Products Limited glipscomb@diamondproducts.com Mike Nelson K2 Diamond mike.nelson@k2diamond.com

14

Doug Walker Concrete Cutting Consultants, LLC dwalker6550@gmail.com CSDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS (Terms expiring 2018) Peter Bigwood Brokk, Inc. peter@brokkinc.com Scott Brown ICS, Blount Inc. scott.brown@blount.com

Glasgow Queen Street Station Upgrade

Diamond Drilling Specialist Provides Light at the End of Tunnel

All Jazzed Up

28

Cutter Finds Rhythm at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

Matthew Dragon GPRS, Inc. matthew.dragon@gp-radar.com Bennett Jones Advanced Concrete Sawing, Inc. bennett@acsawing.com Kevin Schmitt Husqvarna Construction Products kevin.schmitt @husqvarna.com Kellie Vazquez Holes Incorporated kellie@holesinc.com

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A Cut Above (from Below)

36

Underwater Wire Sawing Techniques Have Proven Success

C O N C R ET E O PEN I N G S | 3

CONCRETE OPENINGS MAGAZINE Official Magazine of the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association Volume 25, Number 4 ISSN: 1093-6483 Concrete Openings magazine is published by O’Brien International, Inc., four times each calendar year in March, June, September and December. Editorial contributions are welcomed and advertisements are encouraged. Please contact the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association 100 2nd Avenue South Suite 402N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Tel: 727-577-5004 Fax: 727-577-5012 WWW.CSDA.ORG Magazines, newspapers and private individuals are welcome to reproduce, in whole or part, articles published herein provided that acknowledgements are made in the following manner: “Reprinted courtesy of the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association, Concrete Openings magazine, Issue Date.”

No alterations should be made in the text of any article.

PUBLISHER Patrick O’Brien ASSOCIATE EDITOR Russell Hitchen CONCRETE CASE CONTRIBUTORS Tim Beckman Finlay Crocker Greg Major Joe Shebesta Kellie Vazquez David Walker

C O N T E N T S 6 Concrete Openings at 100:

CSDA’s Official Magazine Reaches Milestone

20 The Business of Business

The Art of Innovation—Creative Blocks, Melting Clocks and Salvador Dali

22 Polished Perspective

The Five Ps of Concrete: Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance

26 Safety Counts

Cell Phones at the Workplace: Managing the Hazards

40 Core Health

Ranking the Best Oils for Cooking

42 Tech Talk

Hammer and Crusher Attachments

46 Industry Bits 60 Certification

EDITORIAL REVIEW COMMITTEE Skip Aston Rod Newton Pat Stepenski The information and recommendations in this magazine are provided for use by fully qualified, professional personnel.

The Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association and the publisher disclaim any responsibility as to their use by readers and shall not be liable for damages arising out of the use of the foregoing information.

62 Membership 64 Calendar 68 Director’s Dialogue

All bylined articles published in this magazine represent solely the individual opinions of the writers and not necessarily those of the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association.

Jan. 17–20, 2017 Best Registration Deal Use Source Code A26 Cover image: 100 concrete openings

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Concrete Openings at

CSDA’s Official Magazine Reaches Milestone Concrete Openings, the official magazine of CSDA,

is an established and respected trade publication that reaches 19,000 industry professionals worldwide with each quarterly issue. The December 2016 issue marks the 100th official release of the publication to the industry—a far cry from the magazine’s humble beginnings during the early years of CSDA.

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F

irst produced in October 1975, Concrete Openings was a simple four-page photocopied newsletter in black and white that was distributed to CSDA members only. The newsletter grew throughout the 1970s and 1980s, doubling in page count, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that the evolution of Concrete Openings began to accelerate. In fall of 1992, advertising space was added and the newsletter became a 12-page trade publication.

Circulation was expanded beyond the CSDA membership to reach general contractors, architects and engineers. By 1995, Concrete Openings had become a true trade magazine with 10,000 subscribers and size had increased to 36 pages, including 4-color covers.

By the start of the new millennium, full-color content was the norm, page count was averaging 60 pages and the publication boasted a new, modern design and masthead.

Regular features like Tech Talk and The Business of Business were now part of the lineup. The magazine highlighted CSDA’s member benefit programs while the December issue had become unofficially known as the “World of Concrete issue,” containing show promotions and a tear-out card to promote CSDA member exhibits at the show.

To further promote the association and its members, a copy of the annual CSDA Membership Directory was mailed with the June 2001 magazine and this coupling continued for several years. In 2005, the size of the mailing grew further as the CSDA Resource Guide—a collection of industry Standards, Specifications and Best Practices created by CSDA and its members—was combined with the Membership Directory to form a formidable reference book for industry specifiers and members alike.

In 2002, CSDA joined the digital age and launched www.csda.org, but it wasn’t until a revamp of the website in 2005 that the magazine had a substantial online presence. As the publication continued to grow in size and circulation, it was clear that it needed more than just a section of the CSDA website. Therefore, in September 2009, a dedicated website, www.concreteopenings.com, went live, containing all content from the latest issue of the magazine together with archived issues, job story downloads, advertising options and a simple online subscription form.

To keep pace with technology and make Concrete Openings more accessible to a growing online audience, a new and improved version of the website was launched in late 2014. This new iteration of the website includes enhanced features for social media sharing and a responsive design that allows readers to easily view content on devices with different screen sizes and orientations. Since its original

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launch in 2009, the website has had over 140,000 page views and its subscription form has attracted almost 2,900 new print subscribers to the magazine.

Since becoming a fully-fledged trade publication and reaching thousands of industry specifiers, Concrete Openings has showcased some of the most unique and challenging jobs undertaken by CSDA contractor members. Feeling like these jobs deserved further recognition, a competition was created in 2013 to assess each one and award the “best” based on set criteria.

The following year, at World of Concrete 2014, the first Concrete Openings Awards ceremony was held and the competition has continued to run each year since.

As it reaches its official 100th issue, Concrete Openings has a circulation of over 19,000 with subscribers in 96 countries.

Subscriptions remain on the rise, page count continues to grow and advertising content is strong. Since 1975, the magazine has featured 350 job stories from CSDA members in 23 countries.

The official magazine has come a long way from its humble beginnings and has become an invaluable tool for promoting the association and its members.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every person who has contributed to Concrete Openings over the years.

Whether you submitted an intriguing job story, provided an insightful article, sent informative news releases, filled ad space with some eye-catching artwork or simply handed your magazine onto a colleague and recommended they get a free copy, your dedication to CSDA’s official magazine is appreciated. I often say to CSDA members, ‘this is your magazine.’ If it weren’t for members going out and completing amazing jobs, producing innovative tools and equipment or putting their knowledge in ‘black and white,’ we wouldn’t have a magazine. Thank you.

Here’s to the next 100!

Russell Hitchen Associate Editor

Enjoy a Commemorative Copy of Concrete Openings Vol. 1, No. 1, Attached to Page 1 of this Issue

C O N C R ET E O PEN I N G S | 7

Concrete Cases

Expansive Cutting Work Specialty Contractor Prepares Port of Houston for Historic Expansion

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The contractor cut a concrete roll-on/roll-off platform for removal.

A slab saw operator made cuts to separate the platform’s deck slab into sections.

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hen a car breaks down on the side of the road, the driver calls a reputable towing company. When a company plans a conference, its representatives seek an experienced event coordinator. When a general contractor needs to remove 15,000 square feet of 16-inch-thick concrete weighing more than 3,000,000 pounds in one month, they contact a professional sawing and drilling contractor.

This is exactly why GSD Trading USA contacted CSDA member Holes Incorporated of Houston, Texas—to perform concrete cutting work on the Port of Houston Barbours Cut Container Terminal project. The port is undergoing major renovations to make room for larger ships as they make their way through Galveston Bay.

self-expansion is in preparation for the $5.5 billion Panama Canal expansion approved by the Panamanian government in 2006. The Panama Canal expansion will enable room for new Panamax ships, which can carry 13,000 standard shipping containers—or TEUs—rather than the 5,000 container capacity of existing ships.

As part of an $85 million project for Bayport and Barbours Cut improvements, both terminals are being widened and deepened to enable ships with drafts up to 45 feet to utilize the port’s facilities.

Expanding Houston’s Economy The Port of Houston plays a major role in the development of the city, receiving more than 7,800 vessel calls every year. The Barbours Cut Container Terminal is the largest container terminal on the U.S. Gulf Coast and much of the container activity at the port takes place at this terminal.

Holes Incorporated was contracted to handle a vital aspect of the rehabilitation to Wharf 2, which was the removal of the roll-on/ roll-off platform—a shore-based ramp that allowed wheeled cargo like cars, trucks and railcars to be efficiently rolled on and off vessels when in port. The restoration and overall port

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The cutting crew performed wire sawing tasks from a floating work barge.

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Concrete Cases

continued

A series of pull cuts were made to separate the deck slab from its support piers.

The scope of the project handled by Holes Incorporated was to disassemble a concrete dock and ramp, measuring approximately 15,000 square feet, so that sections could be lifted off by crane.

Each piece marked for removal and lifting weighed approximately 550,000 pounds.

The deadline? One month.

Challenges and Limitations In terms of completing high-profile jobs near or over water, this was not the contractor’s first rodeo. Previous work experience and an exemplary safety record provided the specialty sawing and drilling contractor with the tools to manage the challenges and limitations that were presented during a project of this stature. “I believe we were selected for numerous reasons, one being our previous work experience and handling of projects over water, two our working relationship with the craning company, Big John Machine Services, speaks volumes to the quality of Some piers were core drilled to allow for secure rigging during their removal.

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our crews, three we were able to produce the results in the allotted time frame given and, fourth, most importantly, our safety record,� said Lee Aitken, Senior Estimator for Holes Incorporated.

The Port of Houston requested that the cutting contractor choose a method that would prevent any debris or concrete pieces from falling into the ship channel. Fallen concrete would have caused a delay on the entire rehabilitation and required the Port of Houston to hire divers to retrieve debris. Any remaining debris would have caused damage to ships traveling through. The method of choice to perform the work was concrete sawing, utilizing wire sawing, slab sawing and core drilling to complete the project.

Debris was not the only thing Holes Incorporated was trying to keep out of the water. One of the biggest challenges for this project was dealing with high tides and keeping the crew safe at all times. Due to the nature of the project, protective floatation devices had to be worn by the crew at all times while on or below the dock. The crew of 10 had to be extremely cautious during strong winds and the high waves caused by ship traffic. With limited height access underneath the dock, it was necessary for work to be scheduled during low tide times to keep everyone safe. Even at low tide, operators encountered low clearances and choppy water so maintaining awareness, tying down equipment and utilizing tool lanyards was of extreme importance.

Pre-cutting work involved using a Core Cut slab saw from Diamond Products fitted with a 42-inch-diameter diamond blade to make 10 cuts 16 inches deep and 47.5 inches wide to split the concrete platform into the planned 11 sections. Cardi and Shibuya

core drills were employed to make a series of 12-inch-diameter holes in the 16-inch-thick slab for rigging access. It was then time to go under the platform for the wire saw cuts.

Holes Incorporated employed three two-man crews that worked from floating barges under the platform to perform a series of 90 wire saw pull cuts. These cuts separated the deck slab from its 24-inch-square reinforced support piles below. The contractor left 28 piles uncut so the platform sections were not completely free until crane rigging was attached and final cuts made. All cuts were made flush to the underside of the deck slab, which not only provided a smooth surface for the crane operator to lower onto the barge but also gave the remaining pile sections a clear elevation out of the water for their removal.

While on the floating barge, a core drill operator mounted a rig to the vertical faces of some piles and created 6-inch-diameter holes for rigging. Once all deck slab sections were removed, the remaining pile sections were to be removed too.

Holes Incorporated completed the necessary pre-cutting tasks— with the grace of synchronized swimmers—after which the cutting crew and Big John Marine Services worked hand-in-hand to remove each of the 11 sections one by one. Beginning with the outer edge of the platform, each section was carefully rigged to the crane and a final set of beam cuts made to free it for removal. This totaled a further 28 wire saw pull cuts.

The moment cutting was complete, the section was lifted and set on the waiting barge for disposal. Due to the size, weight and manner in which each section had to be removed, only four sections could

Each of the 11 cut sections were rigged and removed by crane.

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Concrete Cases

continued

The cut deck slab sections each weighed 550,000 pounds.

be removed each day. It was evident the contractor and crane operator had devised the right methods and approach for the work, as the project was completed on time and within budget.

“The project went extremely well,” said Aitken. “Potentially, there were alternative methods, such as using hoe rams on excavators to break the concrete dock down, but we chose the method that felt most safe and met the needs of our client and it paid off.”

The Impact to Come There is no doubt the expansion of the Panama Canal is going to create tremendous opportunities for the city of Houston in the near future. A decade ago, all container volume from East Asia was arriving on the West Coast of the U.S. and transported into Texas by train. Now, the Port of Houston has two weekly services from Asia to Houston. Houston is ranked number 10 in total imports and exports, after Dallas-Fort Worth (No. 9) and Cleveland, Ohio (No. 8). This ranking could soon change as the completion of the Panama Canal’s expansion approaches.

“To be a part of an expansion of this magnitude is a big testament to the work we do here at Holes Incorporated. To contribute to the overall growth of the city’s economy is a great feeling for us,” said Aitken. “When we look back after everything is complete, we can know with pride we contributed to that piece of Houston’s history.”

REVIEW AND COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE AT: WWW.CONCRETEOPENINGS.COM

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COMPANY PROFILE Holes Incorporated, based in Houston, Texas, has been in business since 1972 and a CSDA member company for 40 years. The company specializes in concrete wall sawing, slab sawing, core drilling, wire sawing, scanning, breaking, anchor bolt installation, demolition and load and haul. Holes Incorporated performs commercial, industrial, residential, state highway and municipality work.

Holes is a CSDA Certified Company and employs CSDA Certified Operators.

RESOURCES General Contractor: GSD Trading USA Sawing and Drilling Contractor: Holes Incorporated Houston, Texas Phone: 281­469­7070 Email: kellie@holesIncorporatedcom Website: www.holesIncorporatedcom

METHODS USED: Slab Sawing, Wire Sawing

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 1 3

Concrete Cases

Operators core drilled almost 8,500 holes 500 millimeters (19.7 inches) deep in the slab.

GLASGOW

QUEEN STREET STATION UPGRADE Diamond Drilling Specialist Provides Light at the End of Tunnel

E

arlier this year, key infrastructural work at one of Scotland’s busiest railway stations was completed on budget and ahead of schedule, thanks to a CSDA member company.

West Lothian-based Core Cut Ltd. (Corecut) was chosen by general contractor Story Contracting, which had been awarded a rail track slab replacement contract as part of the £742-million ($915-million) Edinburgh to Glasgow Improvement Program (EGIP).

The specialty sawing and drilling company was to take the lead role in the removal of 10,000 tons of existing concrete slabs as the station’s tunnel underwent significant improvements.

Glasgow Queen Street Station has an estimated 17 million “entries and exits” per year. The £60-million ($74-million) high level tunnel upgrade is considered to be the most significant feat of engineering along the Edinburgh-Glasgow line in 170 years. With a contract value of £1.25 million ($1.54 million) for the diamond drilling work, it represents the largest project of its kind undertaken in Scotland to date.

A demolition robot was used to break and remove 10,000 tons of existing concrete.

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For 20 weeks between March and August 2016, the top level of Glasgow Queen Street Station was effectively closed to allow for the major engineering work to take place. A large portion of this work was to renew 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) of a concrete track slab that measured between 500 millimeters (19.7 inches) and 750 millimeters (29.5 inches) thick, which carried the rails through the Queen Street tunnel. The tunnel upgrade works consisted of: •

140 days of continuous round-the-clock working

•

More than 150 staff on-site every day

•

More than 500,000 man hours

•

The removal of 10,000 tons of existing concrete slab

•

Installation of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) of new rails

The existing concrete track slab within the tunnel had been in place for 40 years and, due to the impact of continuous use and the effects of water infiltration, was showing signs of significant degradation.

The tunnel upgrade allows for faster, longer electric trains to operate

from the station. Because the new line is electrified, the need for the upgrade work was heightened—faster speeds achieved by electric trains are likely to accelerate the deterioration of the slab.

Corecut won out over a number of other contractors in a highly competitive tender process. The contractor was involved in the planning of the project nearly two years prior to undertaking the actual work, including on- and off-site trials. The diamond drilling work took place during the 20-week project, between March 20 and July 1, 2016.

The work was done in two phases, pre-blockade (March 20 to April 8) and main blockade (April 11 to July 1) totaling nearly 900 man days on-site—all without a lost time incident.

Pre-blockade works consisted of core drilling almost 8,500 holes measuring 112 millimeters (4.4 inches) in diameter and 500 millimeters (19.7 inches) deep. This facilitated the use of hydraulic bursting equipment to crack the track slab following 2,750 meters (9,022 feet) of track saw cutting to both the up line and down line. This cutting separated the concrete track slab from the walls.

Slab sawing techniques were used to separate the concrete slab from the tunnel walls.

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Concrete Cases

continued

Transverse cuts in the track slab were made using track-mounted wall saws.

The second phase commenced to complete the main blockade works and included longitudinal saw cuts to split the concrete track slab from the tunnel walls and divide it into two halves. Hydrostress WS2226 track-mounted wall saws were used to perform the 2,750 meters (9,022 feet) of cutting. Hydraulic bursting—an alternative method of removing reinforced or mass concrete, brickwork or natural stone—-was also carried out. Corecut’s remote controlled “Robolition” Brokk 260 demolition robot was used to remove 10,000 tons of existing concrete, reducing it to manageable sections for removal by train.

Main blockade works consisted of slab saw cutting and transverse track-mounted saw cutting of ladder beam sections using a CC22/12 slab saw and track saw from Tyrolit. Approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) of 520-millimeter-deep (20.5-inch) longitudinal slab sawing was completed between the rails on each line, then over 1,500 3.5-meter-long (11.5-foot) and 520-millimeter-deep (20.5-inch) transverse cuts in the ladder beam sections of the track slab.

The contractor then conducted hydraulic busting and breaking to accommodate the replacement of track slab, then completed the

1 6 | DECEMBER.16

drilling of dowel holes through the new structural slab and into the rock below. A Corecut operator utilized the Robolition Brokk 260 fitted with a hydraulic rock drill. Upon installation of the new concrete slab, core drill operators made 3,500 holes to a depth of up to 3 meters (9.8 feet), helping to anchor the concrete to the tunnel bedrock.

The work was conducted on a 24/7 basis by rotating teams, ensuring no downtime and this commitment led to the contractor delivering six days ahead of schedule.

Managing Director of Corecut, Finlay Crocker, said, “The Queen Street tunnel represented a significant challenge for our team, which worked diligently in difficult conditions across almost 100 days to complete the work. Given the environment and tight deadlines we had to contend with, it is particularly pleasing to us that we were able to complete the work safely, within budget and nearly a week ahead of schedule. It is testament to the quality and work ethic of those involved.”

Eddie Esdale, Location Scheme Project Manager for Story Contracting was equally pleased with the outcome. “It was a fantastic effort throughout by everyone involved at Corecut. A very innovative

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 1 7

Concrete Cases

continued

Top: In total, Corecut helped renew 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) of the tunnel slab.

Bottom: New precast slab units are now in place on the tunnel slab.

solution was proposed and delivered. Without it, the project may not have progressed as smoothly as it did. A professional approach from all operatives on-site ensured the safe delivery of the works ahead of program.”

Completion of this work now means that existing class 380 electric trains will be able to operate at optimum performance when they begin running on the Edinburgh – Glasgow Line in December 2016. Furthermore, new Hitachi electric trains will begin operating on the Edinburgh – Glasgow via Falkirk High route in fall 2017. The new slab meets modern specifications and should last 60 years without any major intervention.

REVIEW AND COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE AT: WWW.CONCRETEOPENINGS.COM

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COMPANY PROFILE Core Cut Ltd. is based in West Lothian, Scotland, United Kingdom, with a support location in Sheffield, England. The contractor has been a CSDA member company for 20 years and has been in business since 1978. Core Cut Ltd. has 40 operators and offers the concrete cutting services of core drilling, slab sawing, hand sawing, wall sawing, wire sawing, selective demolition, floor polishing and preparation and hydrodemolition.

RESOURCES General Contractor: Story Contracting Sawing and Drilling Contractor: Core Cut Ltd. West Lothian, Scotland Phone: 44-1506 854 710 Email: finlay@corecut.co.uk Website: www.corecut.co.uk

METHODS USED: Slab Sawing, Core Drilling, Wall Sawing

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 1 9

The Business of Business

The Art of Innovation—Creative Blocks, Melting Clocks and Salvador Dali

By Nathan Schwagler

T

he Wright Brothers knew they were going to crash and attempted to fly anyway. Unlike their competitors, the former bicycle mechanics brought extra parts to the sands dunes to make on-site repairs and reduce cycle time. As a result of their creativity, courage and inventive efforts, the brothers invented not just a product (the aircraft), but also a process for failing quickly, learning faster and beating their competition.

This is a big idea: separating out creative products from the creative processes that inspire them.

The multi-billion dollar success of Post-It notes is directly attributed to two employees at 3M, Spencer Silver and Art Fry, who mistakenly formulated an adhesive that didn’t stick all that well, but just happened to be particularly good at sticking and unsticking on-demand.

Management asked them to stop working on the “failed” glue, but the two persisted and because of their resilience and ideadevelopment skills, that formula-of-failure was transformed into the ubiquitous office product we know, use and love today.

The moldable children’s clay, Play-Doh, wasn’t imagined by a chemist, but by a school teacher named Kay Zufall who realized that, in addition to its original application (the removal of soot stains left on walls from coal furnaces in the 1930s) “Kutol Wall Cleaner” could be colored and used for children’s arts and crafts activities. The product now sells 100 million cans per year across 75 countries worldwide.

Why talk about creativity? Because virtually all companies need it, from startups to Fortune 500s. Corporate stagnation is real, industry-upending business model innovation is happening at a break neck pace, and to quote entrepreneur, investor and Silicon Valley

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legend, Marc Andreessen, “software is eating the world.”

Because of these forces, 100+ year-old corporate stalwarts are finding themselves suddenly staring into the face of irrelevance, and no matter how knowledgeable a team is of their market, product portfolio and competitive landscape, they face a perilous proposition: grow, or die.

The question at hand: how does an organization harness the collective creative thinking capabilities of its employees to be able to identify new opportunities and bring new ideas to life and to market? In short, they melt clocks.

MELTING CLOCKS To boost your creative thinking powers, try these tips from my role as a Salvador Dali Museum Innovation Labs executive facilitator.

High-performing creative teams learn to bend the status quo, and they do it by optimizing conversations for creativity. For example, they temporarily suspend judgment during the idea generation phase of creative work. This is important because, in the context of creativity and innovation, the worst thing a group of people can do is attempt to both generate and evaluate at the same time. Most formal and informal brainstorming sessions unfold this way, however, and the resulting creative output suffers dramatically.

Instead, try splitting the conversation into sections.

Be sure to immerse yourself in the data surrounding the problem you are trying to solve (don’t go in cold!). Next, generate a series of great problem statements and challenge questions (note: fluid problem-framing is a challenging skill for many people, but a little

practice can go a long way at this stage toward ensuring a return on investment for your time and energy as a group).

Try to warm-up with a divergent thinking exercise. Playfulness and open-mindedness are key, so be sure that the group is ideationready with an energizing activity to support what Einstein described as “combinatorial creativity.” Then, and only then, should you shift focus and apply attention and energy on solving the actual problem.

Once you have got a nice list of potential solutions to choose from, force yourself to stretch even further. And once you feel tapped out, challenge the group to go even further!

Research suggests that the ideas generated during the “stretch” phase of the challenge (when all of the stale, low-hanging fruit-style ideas are exhausted) may be the most exciting and innovative.

Also, don’t be afraid to play with the problem itself. What assumptions and biases might be built into your problem statement?

Consider re-framing it and adjusting the words and perspectives being used to describe the challenge. Want to stretch even further? Try using images instead of words to describe a challenge to a team. Or consider trying your hand at silent brainstorming (often referred to as “brain-writing”) to ensure that more introverted participants are able to contribute their greatest thinking to the session.

Once you have truly exhausted your idea generation capabilities, you can prepare for the decision-making phase of the process by taking a break and then coming back to the challenge with evaluation criteria in-hand so that everyone knows what success looks like.

It may even be helpful to have decision-makers alignment before the meeting starts. If you go

CSDA 2017 Convention & Tech Fair Keynote Speaker—Nathan Schwagler

The association will hold its 45th Annual Convention & Tech Fair in the beautiful Caribbean, March 14-18, 2017, at the Gran Meliá Golf Resort in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico where Schwagler will give the keynote presentation.

During the Enhancing Business Performance, Communications & Problem-Solving Skills with LEGO Serious Play® session, Schwagler will introduce his audience to a facilitated meeting, communication and problem-solving process. Each participant builds his or her own 3D model in response to the facilitator’s questions using specially selected elements, which serve as a basis for group discussion, knowledge sharing and decision making.

The keynote presentation will be followed up by two highlyfocused workshops that will go further in-depth with the concept— utilizing the visual, auditory and kinesthetic skills of participants to effectively apply the method in their business environment.

The CSDA Annual Convention & Tech Fair is attended by owners, managers and operators from concrete cutting, polishing and imaging companies as well as representatives from manufacturers and distributors who support the industry with products and services. Anyone who falls into these categories should join CSDA for this entertaining, valuable event. For more information or to register, visit www.csda.org/convention or call 727-577-5004.

down the evaluation criteria route, you might also consider sharing the criteria with your participants, too.

Some ideators prefer more information than others about the parameters of the challenge—the “box” you are trying to think outside of, etc. Next, apply those criteria against your list of ideas thoughtfully and deliberately—keeping in mind that with each idea a person comes attached, applying energy toward extracting something interesting/ valuable from each idea and working to improving them, as opposed to simply tossing them aside at first blush. Some groups tend to not want to do this, but there is latent value inside of “losing” ideas if you have got sufficient creative chops to find, reveal and create it. A “quick and dirty” way of achieving this is to make your initial, criteria-driven choices regarding which ideas are going to move forward, and then taking a step back to the board/pad/monitor and ask yourself the following question: “which ideas would I NOT want my competitors to be working on?” This question will often produce a secondary list of ideas that are ready for some tweaking and/or further consideration.

The Wright Brothers, Post-It notes and Play-Doh are all shining examples of applied creativity, and it is important to note that even the most innovative ideas may be sparked by the basics. When in doubt, always recall: curiosity killed the can’t!

Nathan Schwagler is a founding Co-Director of The Dalí Museum Innovation Labs in St. Petersburg, Florida, where he serves as lead program designer and executive facilitator. As a consultant, Nathan has supported more than 150 organizations to facilitate the mapping, development and deployment of their innovation capabilities to drive business outcomes. His clients include Converse Shoe Co., The Miller/Coors Brewing Co., Regions Bank and The Tampa Bay Rays. He can be reached at nschwagler@thedali.org.

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 2 1

Safety Counts

Cell Phones at the Workplace: Managing the Hazards

By Mark A. Lies and Adam R. Young

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usiness today is regularly conducted through cell phones, as a necessary tool for employees to communicate and access digital information. Bring Your Own Device programs and employee cell phone use present a range of employment and labor liabilities for employers: smartphones can be a forum for employees to engage in protected concerted activity, an opportunity for unauthorized overtime work and a tool to access inappropriate images and harass coworkers.

Yet the biggest challenges posed by cell phones are their safety hazards. Distracted driving is the number one cause of workplace fatalities and cell phones are the biggest cause of distraction in the forms of text messaging, talking and game-playing. Cell phone distractions can impugn employees’ spatial awareness, recognition of hazards and operation of dangerous equipment.

Finally, studies show that defects in certain cell phone batteries have resulted in fires and explosions. Accordingly, employers with Bring Your Own Device programs or who provide cell phones for use at the workplace must understand and manage the safety risks these devices pose.

DISTRACTED DRIVING Employers whose businesses require the use of cars, vans or trucks must understand that their policies and training regarding the safe operation of those vehicles—and the inclusion of a clear prohibition against texting on a hand held cell phone while driving—are of strong interest to OSHA, the law enforcement community, insurance carriers and potential civil litigants. Failure to address this hazard can result in significant employer liability.

Federal OSHA maintains a Distracted Driving Initiative, in which it targets texting as a major cause of workplace injuries. In a 2010 open letter to employers, Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) David Michaels said, “It is your responsibility and

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legal obligation to have a clear, unequivocal and enforced policy against texting while driving....Companies are in violation of the Occupational Safety and Health Act if, by policy or practice, they require texting while driving, or create incentives that encourage or condone it, or they structure work so that texting is a practical necessity for workers to carry out their jobs. OSHA will investigate worker complaints, and employers who violate the law will be subject to citations and penalties.” OSHA has used its General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, to issue citations and proposed penalties in these circumstances.

OSHA considers “distracted driving” which can include texting (and potentially the use of cell phones for telephone calls) to be a “recognized hazard” under the General Duty Clause to employee safety. Penalties for willful violations of the Act under the General Duty Clause can be as high as $124,709.

Even with a no-texting policy, OSHA may cite employers when employees are texting while driving, where texting is a common

workplace practice. OSHA indicates that “when it receives a credible complaint that an employer requires texting while driving or who organizes work so that texting is a practical necessity, [OSHA] will investigate and where necessary issue citations and penalties to end this practice.” Accordingly, employers need to be wary of workplace texting and make clear that texting while driving is prohibited.

DISTRACTED OPERATION OF INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY Cell phone distractions present safety hazards far beyond the driving of personal vehicles. At the most obvious, operators of powered industrial trucks or other industrial machinery, including concrete cutting equipment, can be distracted by cell phone use. OSHA regulations squarely forbid the use of cell phones in construction regulations pertaining to cranes and derricks (29 C.F.R. § 1926.1417(d)), but the hazard exists across any dangerous equipment. Accordingly, active operation during the use of industrial equipment should be strictly prohibited.

DISTRACTED EMPLOYEES AT THE WORKPLACE As any employer with industrial machinery knows, preventing accidents starts with making sure employees are aware of their surroundings. Distractions from cell phones impair employees’ ability to recognize and react to hazards, such as passing forklifts, which can hit pedestrian employees. Of recent concern is the use of “augmented reality” games, such as Pokémon Go, in which players view the world through cell phone screens, walk around while distracted and search real world sites for game-related information.

These games encourage cell phone use and distraction while walking around and should be prohibited from the worksite.

ADDITIONAL LIABILITIES FOR DISTRACTED EMPLOYEES Of course, OSHA citations and associated penalties are not the only liabilities that employers must be concerned about when it comes to cell phone distractions. For example, 13 states have banned the use of handheld phones while driving for talking. 46 states and the District of Columbia ban text messaging for all drivers, and in many of the remaining states similar bans are in place at the county or city level. These laws make texting while driving illegal and also open employers to liability for accidents that result from their employees’ distracted driving and improper use of cell phones.

Employees face both individual civil and criminal liability for damages that result from accidents caused by texting while driving or engaging in other work. Likewise, employers face vicarious liability for the acts of their employees under agency law for personal injury or property damage their employees cause during the course of employment.

When an accident happens as a consequence of distracted driving or operating machinery while the employee is on company time, the employer is potentially liable. Where the employer has not affirmatively prohibited texting while driving and enforced that policy, the employer faces potential liability as a result of the accident.

Vicarious liability, as it is called, is not a new legal concept. Employers have faced liability in similar situations for decades for the acts of their employees that occur during the course of the employment relationship.

Consider the claims made against pizza delivery companies whose drivers were instructed to deliver a pizza in 30 minutes or

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Safety Counts

continued

less. In the context of distracted driving, the price of vicarious liability can be significant. In Florida, a lumber wholesaler settled for over $16 million after one of its salesman hit and severely disabled an elderly woman while talking on a cell phone.

Beyond potential OSHA administrative penalties and civil and criminal liability, employers should also consider how their policies and practices can affect their insurance rates. There is no question that with an increase in accidents caused by distracted employees, the cost of worker’s compensation and other insurance coverage will rise.

CELL PHONE FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS Modern cell phones use lithium-ion batteries, which in reported cases have caused fires and sparks while in stand-by mode or while charging. According to recent news reports, defective cell phones have produced smoke and grounded a flight, ignited a car and smoldered on a child’s pillow. A cell phone manufacturer has reported 35 cases of its devices’ batteries burning or exploding while charging and has issued a recall for millions of devices. The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a warning about a particular model of personal device, telling passengers, “not to turn on or charge these devices on board aircraft and not to stow them in any checked baggage.”

Consequently, cell phones can represent a recognized fire hazard at the workplace. As the Agency’s understanding of the hazards develops, we anticipate that OSHA could address this issue under the General Duty Clause, citing employers who fail to protect employees from the recognized hazard of cell phone battery fires. Employees who work around flammable vapors or dust face enhanced risks from fires and explosions. It is a common practice at gasoline stations to have warnings that cell phones should not be used while fueling because of the potential for ignition of flammable gasoline vapors. Employers must manage and limit the fire hazards posed by recalled, dangerous cell phones in the workplace.

WHAT SHOULD EMPLOYERS DO? Employers need to put in to effect clear policies that unequivocally prohibit texting and talking on a cell phone while operating any kind of motorized vehicle while performing work activities. This includes cars, buses, trucks, forklifts, construction and agricultural vehicles.

The “workplace” includes any location that the employee is operating a vehicle in their role as an employee. For example, many employers require employees who operate motor vehicles to take the vehicle out of moving traffic lanes, stop the vehicle completely and then utilize the cell phone or electronic device to communicate.

Employers should consider a prohibition on workplace cell phone in areas of the workplace that distractions would presents a hazard to employees. Employers could consider banning cell phone gaming or viewing obscene materials at the workplace entirely.

Employers should also carefully evaluate existing policies and the nature of their workplaces to ensure that there are no incentives or unwritten policies and practices that encourage the use of hand-held communication devices for texting or data entry while in a hazardous area, or while operating a vehicle.

Consider the use of certain applications in company-issued devices that can block the use of cell phones, including texting and internet access, while a vehicle is moving.

Enforce bans on texting while operating a vehicle or in a hazardous area of a workplace. Enforcement of these policies must be consistent and cover both management and non-management employees alike.

If texting or data entry is a necessary part of an employee’s job,

2 4 | DECEMBER.16

consider devising a schedule that allows for routine breaks during which vehicles and dangerous activities are stopped to allow for the communication or data entry to be completed.

Inform employees of the fire hazard posed by recalled, dangerous cell phones, particularly with regard to the ignition of flammable vapors. Prohibit recalled or dangerous cell phones from being used in the workplace.

CONCLUSION As OSHA’s enforcement relating to employee cell phone use gains more notoriety, it can be expected that it will have a significant collateral impact on law enforcement at all levels to address this hazard.

If the foregoing recommendations are considered and adopted by employers, they will reduce potential individual civil and criminal liability of employees as well as the vicarious liability of the employer.

Mark A. Lies II is an attorneys in the Environmental, Safety and Toxic Tort Group in the Chicago office of Seyfarth Shaw LLP. Lies is a partner who focuses his practice in the areas of products liability, occupational safety and health, workplace violence, construction litigation and related employment litigation. He can be contacted at mlies@seyfarth.com or 312-460-5877.

Adam Young is an associate in the Labor and Employment and Environmental, Safety and Toxic Tort Groups of Seyfarth Shaw LLP. Mr. Young focuses his practice on occupational safety and health, employment counseling and commercial litigation. He can be contacted at ayoung@seyfarth.com or 312-460-5538.

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Polished Perspective

The Five Ps of Concrete: Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance Photo courtesy of Yezco Concrete Polishing.

By David Stephenson

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n management or leadership training classes worldwide, you can learn about the five Ps for success: “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance.” I think these Ps can apply to polished concrete projects as well. There are several specific planning items that can be addressed that will help any polish project be successful.

START FROM THE GROUND UP Just like a structure, you should build your concrete slab from the bottom up, beginning with a vapor barrier. Without a good vapor barrier, concrete slabs will absorb moisture from the ground. This moisture travels up through the slab and is released at the surface.

As water travels, it has a tendency to erode materials in its path and carry bits with it. In concrete this is usually salt. The salt crystals get deposited at the surface in a process called “efflorescence.” The salt by itself etches the concrete and the crystals appear white so they lighten the color.

Efflorescence is an issue that’s controllable with proper planning.

DESIGN THE RIGHT MIX The next item that must be reviewed is the concrete mix design. The term “mix design” refers to the recipe of materials that, when combined together, turn into concrete. All mix designs have cement, sand, aggregate and water. In addition to these, there are other items that could potentially be included in the mix design.

A common item used today is fly ash, a recycled byproduct of the coal-burning power industry. It’s used to replace some cement in a concrete mix. Manufacturers figured out a long time ago that if a mix has too much fly ash there isn’t enough reactive material left for densifiers to harden the concrete appropriately. You should check with your chemical manufacturer to understand tolerance levels. Most manufacturers don’t like anything above 20 percent fly ash.

You can look at other things as well, like water reducers, finishing aids or other products that retard or increase concrete’s

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set time. It’s important to review these items in the mix design because once the concrete is poured you can’t change or remove something that’s harmful to the floors.

PLACE PROPERLY As we continue to review concrete from the ground up, let’s consider “placement.” This is the standard industry term for getting the concrete from the truck to its actual location.

Placement is important to polished concrete because generally this is the only time that the concrete flatness can be controlled.

Usually, the concrete is physically deposited from the concrete truck either by buggy or a pump. As the material is placed into a form, it is extremely wavy. The part of the placement process where the flatness is controlled is called “screeding.” There are many methods to screed a slab that will get it fairly flat, but a fairly flat floor will have high and low spots that will be evident when the concrete is polished.

High spots will get cut off more by concrete grinders which expose more aggregate. The low spots are harder for a grinder to reach. Typically, they show little or no aggregate and will usually be darker in color than the rest of the slab.

The best method used to screed a polished concrete project involves a “laser screed.” This machine uses a laser to level the screed boom and produce a much flatter finish than any type of hand screed.

FINISH WITH PANS The next level of planning is called “finishing.” This is the process where trowels are used to get the concrete tighter and the surface hard. If concrete is only screeded and not troweled, its surface will be rough and porous, which isn’t conducive to polishing because the concrete’s texture is like pumice stone. It’s impossible to polish an extremely porous piece of stone and the same rule applies to concrete.

Finishing can be done many different ways. The process I find works best begins with the finisher using pans, which are basically like big round cake pans that a power trowel blade sits in. The pan knocks off some of the concrete that’s high and fills in some of the areas that are low. Along with the screeding process previously discussed, this helps with the overall flatness.

Pans are the only method of finishing that can help with the flatness of the concrete.

Obviously they need to be used while the concrete is still slightly wet and soft.

K2DiamondTogether1/2pg_K2DiamondAd-10/08 10/20/16 5:04 PM Page 1 USE THE RIGHT BLADES After the pans, the concrete should be troweled with steel blades. These are large, rectangular, thin pieces of metal that are flat and slightly angled (like ceiling fan blades).

With a slight pressure, they push down on the concrete and consolidate the surface.

In the process, sand particulates are also pushed down and a creamy paste of concrete fines is brought up and deposited at the surface. This condensed, tight layer is what you need for polishing.

I like to use plastic blades for the final pass because a steel trowel blade significantly darkens the surface with a process called “burning in.” This really dark finish has to be cut through before you can begin polishing or chemically treating the surface. This is unnecessary extra work you can avoid. By using plastic blades to finish, the concrete doesn’t get burned in but is still really tight and well compacted. This is perfect for polished concrete.

FIND THE RIGHT CURE The final process of placing and finishing concrete that pertains to the polished variety is the curing. Concrete gets hard through a chemical reaction where water is key. It naturally rids itself of water as it cures. By holding water in for a period of time, the concrete gets much harder and lasts much longer. This process of concrete holding in moisture is called curing.

The most common type of curing involves spraying a membrane sealer onto the top of the concrete right after it’s been finished. This membrane traps the moisture and allows that cure to happen.

However, when it comes to a decorative concrete finish, the sealer is problematic. Whereas it holds moisture in, it also keeps chemical treatments out. This membrane sealer has to be ground through to allow the concrete to be polished, which costs the decorative concrete contractor time and money.

Instead, I recommend a water-curing method where you basically keep the concrete surface wet for seven days after the concrete has been finished.

This allows the concrete to get hard, and it doesn’t leave any film that needs to be ground through. A lot of general contractors don’t like to water cure because they can’t do any other work on the slab during this period. This slows down the construction schedule and

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requires extra manpower on site to ensure the slab stays wet.

When water curing is not an option, I recommend a dissipating cure. These curing agents create a membrane that holds in the moisture for the required seven-day period and then begins to chemically break down. There are lots of variations of dissipating cures so do your research and figure out which option works best for your project.

In my mind, these steps make up the five Ps: “Proper Planning Prevents Poor

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Performance.” If you follow them, you’re almost assured you’ll have a good slab that’s easier to polish and more likely to meet your customer’s expectations.

David Stephenson owns Polished Concrete Consultants, based in Dallas, Texas. As a consultant, he offers decorative concrete programs for retailers and troubleshooting for a wide range of clients. David can be reached at david@polishedconsultants.com. Article reprinted with permission from Concrete Décor.

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Concrete Cases

All Jazzed Up Cutter Finds Rhythm at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

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sing a custom-fabricated concrete sawing machine, a Houston-based CSDA contractor was able to safely and quickly cut 4,500 14-inch-square concrete piles as part of a wider $807 million construction project at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

A new 30-gate terminal with two concourses is being built on the north side of the existing runways and is to be finished in time for the city’s tricentennial celebrations in 2018. The addition will result in faster security screening, more parking and restaurants, and more tourism.

The saw cutting arm of the machine clamped onto the piles while c

A $807-million terminal construction project is underway at New Orleans International Airport.

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New Orleans International Airport New Terminal

cutting.

Construction of the new $807 million terminal at Louis Armstrong International Airport began in January 2016 and is scheduled for completion October 2018. The project has been hailed as the most important construction for the city since the Superdome in 1975. The total scope for the 760,500-square-foot terminal includes 30 gates, a 2,000-car parking garage, a central utility plant, a ground transportation staging area, a new airport acces s road and a storm water pump station.

The idea is to replace the aging terminal, which dates to 1959, with an airport more in line with modern travel and passenger expectations. Two new concourses will be behind a single consolidated checkpoint, rather than the existing disconnected concourses with separate checkpoints. For more information on the project, visit www.flymsy.com.

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Concrete Cases

continued

The contractor’s custom pile cutting machine was employed on the project.

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4.813x7.125_floor saw_image.pdf 1 18.11.2016 16:34:30

It was specified that piles in three work areas around the airport—main terminal, east concourse and west concourse—be brought to a set elevation for the installation of a new footer, so the project’s general contractor, joint venture Hunt-Gibbs-Boh-Metro, began the search for suitable methods and qualified subcontractors to do the work.

CSDA member Aggregate Technologies, Inc. (ATI) was chosen for the pile cutting work.

Greg Major, the contractor’s project manager for the job, explains why. “Our method was chosen due to its increased safety, quality of finish and high production rate when compared with others,” he said. “Hydraulic shears would have damaged the tops of the C piles and led to spalling of the concrete, so M saw cutting was the best option. However, setting up a wall saw to cut each pile would Y have been too slow and hand sawing was CM just too dangerous on the muddy, uneven surfaces around the piles. Thankfully, we had MY just the tool for the job.”

CY ATI employed its patented Pile Cutting CMY Machine (PCM), a modified excavation K machine with a custom saw cutting arm attachment, for the job. Designed and built by the contractor, Major states the machine can cut over 100 piles per day. The operator is able to safely cut and remove piles without ever leaving the cab.

The area around each pile was excavated and specific elevations were marked on the concrete by the general contractor in spray paint. The PCM operator then positioned the machine close to each excavated area and extended the boom down to the pile.

The machine’s hydraulic-powered clamps attached securely to the pile, eliminating the need for any mounting tracks, before the saw motor and pivot arm were activated and cutting commenced.

The use of diamond blades on the saw cutting attachment left a smooth, clean finish at the required elevation, creating a good surface to attach the new footer. A 36-inchdiameter blade supplied by Husqvarna Construction Products was used to make the cuts. On average, the PCM was able to cut through a 14-inch-square concrete pile in five minutes. Cut pieces measuring from 1 inch to 20 feet in height were removed from the tops of the piles by the PCM operator and placed to the side for removal by the general contractor. These pieces weighed anywhere from 30 pounds to 2 tons.

Even with a specialized machine to cut the piles with increased operator safety, the

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CSU-201610-Concrete Openings 2x2 ad.indd 1

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Concrete Cases

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ATI cut 4,500 14-inch-square piles to their specified elevations.

Right: Smooth, clean finishes created by diamond cutting allowed the general contractor to install a new concrete footer.

job was not without its challenges. The contractor experienced delays due to inclement weather, the worst being in August 2016 when heavy rain and winds flooded many parts of Louisiana—five weather reporting stations recorded more than 20 inches of rain in 72 hours. However, ATI’s machine was still able to continue making some progress with the cuts, which would not have been possible had it been necessary for operators to be in the excavation pits with wall or hand saws.

“Our PCM operator can cut a large number of piles per day in rain or 100-degree heat, as he sits in an air-conditioned cab!” explains Major. “This method eliminates operator exposure to potential safety hazards, particularly those associated with working in or around excavation pits.” It also drastically reduces the chances of the operator suffering from heat exhaustion, illness and dehydration while performing cutting tasks.

ATI began cutting the 14-inch-square piles in August and the contractor completed all 4,500 to their specified elevations approximately four months from commencement. It was fitting that the contractors’ sawing and drilling team founds such a smooth rhythm while working on an airport named after a legend of jazz.

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COMPANY PROFILE Aggregate Technologies, Inc. has been a CSDA member for three years and is based in Houston, Texas. The company has been in business for 19 years, has 30 employees and 20 trucks. Aggregate Technologies, Inc. services the entire U.S. and offers the services of core drilling, wall sawing, wire sawing, flat sawing, selective demolition, pile cutting, breaking and hauling and ground penetrating radar.

The company employs CSDA Certified Operators.

RESOURCES General Contractor Hunt-Gibbs-Boh-Metro Sawing and Drilling Contractor: Aggregate Technologies, Inc. Houston, Texas Phone: 281-579-7229 Email: greg@aggregatetechnologies.com Website: www.aggregatetechnologies.com

METHODS USED: Selective Demolition

IACDS President’s Insight

I

place huge emphasis on networking and sharing with the industry around the world. It is something that I—and my father, Peter—believe in passionately. I know many of you know my father well. He really is a standard bearer for global co-operation and it’s something that he has instilled in me as the current managing director of D-Drill.

My first experience of CSDA was tagging along with my parents when I was only 14—just a couple of years ago (ha ha!). This year alone, I have travelled the world from Las Vegas to Munich for events such as World of Concrete and BAUMA, where the industry comes together to celebrate its achievements and share the latest knowledge, information and technology. Through networking I have, over the years, been able to tap into the knowledge of fellow concrete drillers and sawers, as well as suppliers, from around the world on everything from contractual problems, best practice and maintaining strong relationships with employees and customers. I’ve also made some amazing friends and long may it continue. So why wouldn’t you want to join in and network with your own country’s association and with the rest of the world?

I will be attending CSDA’s 2017 Convention this coming March in Puerto Rico, and I very much look forward to catching up with friends and colleagues once again. I feel it brings benefits to the business and I believe it helps our

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JULIE WHITE IACDS President

industry to thrive in the face of some global uncertainty. It also makes you realize that, wherever you cut concrete in the world, we all have the same problems.

As we head into 2017, I am very optimistic. Why? Well, I see so much potential for the industry and it really is down to all of us to go out there and make it happen. We must look at every way possible we can to grow and to continue to talk up our industry. Based on conversations I have had this past year, this optimism for prosperity is shared around the world. I look forward to seeing you all at the CSDA Convention in Puerto Rico!

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Chain speed, ft/s (m/s) Max cutting depth, in (mm) Max straight cutting depth, in (mm) Min cutting width, in (mm) Weight (standard cutting, incl bar and chain, no guards), lbs (kg) HusqvarnaCP_Americas

17400 West 119th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66061 • T 800-288-5040 • F 800-825-0028 • www.husqvarnacp.com 2077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 4V6 • T 800-461-9589 • F 800-825-0028 • www.husqvarnacp.ca Copyright © 2016 Husqvarna AB (publ.). All rights reserved. Husqvarna is a registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).

92 (28) 16 (400) 12 (300) 8 (200) 39 (17.8)

Concrete Cases

(from Below) Underwater Wire Sawing Techniques Have Proven Success he innovative technique of wire sawing originated in quarries to extract stone and was quickly applied to cut thick concrete. Today, contractors use diamond wire to cut and remove large sections of heavily-reinforced concrete on piers, dams, bridge sections and in areas where work space is restricted. Of these restricted work areas, none present more challenges than when the structure is underwater.

One CSDA member has specialized in the completion of large wire sawing projects since its inception almost 20 years ago and has been involved with a number of complex underwater jobs. Cutting Edge Services Corporation of Batavia, Ohio has assisted with critical cleanup operations beneath the water’s surface in seas, rivers and dams.

Katrina Cleanup Hurricane Katrina reigns as the costliest natural disaster in the history of the United States and one of the five deadliest on record. Over 1,200 people died and total property damage exceeded $108 billion. Today, 11

The contractor’s first subsea saw set on a mock-up of a 20-inch-diameter conductor pipe.

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years on since the disaster, the cleanup continues not just on land but on “unseen” subsea structures and pipelines in the Gulf of Mexico. Winds from Hurricane Katrina exceeding 175 mph damaged over 50 oil-producing platforms, sinking two and pushing one 68 miles. The hurricane also destroyed over 100 miles of pipeline carrying crude oil to U.S. shores.

In November of 2005, Integra Technologies, a manufacturer of radar and avionics equipment approached Cutting Edge Services Corp., a CSDA member since 1997, in search of diamond wire machines and technicians to cut pipes and structures in the Gulf of Mexico. No North American underwater wire saws were available at this time, so the contractor immediately got to work developing a concept that would provide undersea saws and technicians. Black Machining, also of Batavia, was contacted by Cutting Edge to fabricate a special clamp to support the primary elements of a WS-25 hydraulic wire saw from Diamond Products. The initial request was to cut

A pair of dolphin pilings were cut in the Bahamas using a 36-inch wire saw.

Divers help set underwater saws and wires in place, while cutting speed and pressure is control by an operator above the surface.

undersea “conductor pipes”—triple wall steel pipes, with the outer pipe measuring 20 inches in diameter and the inner pipe carrying crude oil.

The first 20-inch subsea saw was completed in early January 2006 and shipped to Houston, Texas for testing. Tiburon Divers and W&T Offshore placed the saw in a dive tank and conducted a series of operational tests, which the saw successfully passed.

At the actual jobsite, technicians covered round-the-clock shifts and worked off ships or barges. Saws were pre-run on deck, then handed over to the dive team. The wire saw technician had radio contact with the dive team to provide instruction for the correct clamping of the saw. Once sawing was underway, only significantly bad weather cleared the deck and stopped operations.

The work involved long hours and a fair share of frustrations for the contractor, but the cutting always got done. Cut sections were either placed on deck or temporarily left on sea floor for removal by others.

Thanks to the marketing efforts of Integra, word spread quickly, and by the end of 2006 six saws were in operation, including larger 24- and 36-inch models. Cutting Edge and Integra then formed a partnership called BTC Subsea for all work in the Gulf of Mexico, a partnership that remains in effect today.

“Big Red” a 96-inch saw, surfaces after underwater cutting an 8-foot-diamater pier.

a diver is minimal, as the saw clamps into position within minutes and the loop of diamond wire continually moves through the pipe or structure. The divers do not have to pull wires and make connections. The operator maintains a set pressure range on the wire, as they have no visual or noise contact with the saw or cutting face. Pending the completion of the cut, and the attachment of the cut section to a crane, progress can be stopped and wedges inserted to prevent the wire from being pinched in the cut.

When Borco’s operation in Freeport, Bahamas needed to upgrade its offshore refueling platform, the company

Out of Sight, Not Out of Control With the rare exception of using underwater cameras, wire saw operators control underwater cutting from a deck, platform or ship. The hydraulic power unit and control station stay dry, while the saw is set in place with diver assistance up to 200 feet deep. The use of

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An ice hole was created to allow the contractor’s 24-inch saw to make cuts at Northstar Island in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska.

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Concrete Cases

continued

Custom-fabricated wire saw systems can be rigged on to piers and cut to specified elevations.

Here, Big Red was attached to piers under the I-65 bridge in Louisville, Kentucky.

Wire saw push or pull cuts can cut and remove large parts of a structure, like this 8-foot-diameter steel reinforced concrete pier.

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contacted Cal Dive who in turn reached out to Integra/Cutting Edge for diamond wire cutting solutions. A self-clamping saw was deployed to cut a pair of 36-inch diameter dolphin pilings.

Each dolphin was 12-foot wide and 24-feet tall. After setup, each cut took approximately one hour to complete.

The contractor was then notified of a need to wire saw 8-foot-diameter triple-wall piers. The outer wall was 3 inches thick, with 6-foot and 4-foot pipes grouted within. This prompted fabrication of “Big Red,” a double-mast, self-clamping saw that could handle cuts 96 inches across. There were eight Borco piers that required six cuts each. In total, Cutting Edge made 48 cuts averaging seven hours per cut and 5 feet in diameter.

In Search of Cooler Waters In 2012, general contractor American Marine of Anchorage, Alaska contacted Cutting Edge regarding a need to cut 24-inch steel pilings for BP on Northstar Island, off Prudhoe Bay. The customer would maintain a hole in the ice while divers would set the saw in place for cutting operations. Several 24-inch pilings with 1-inch steel walls were cut. The average cut time was just 45 minutes and the contractor completed over 200 cuts between 2006 and 2008.

A year later, American Marine put Cutting Edge to work on the wire sawing contractor’s smallest saw yet, made for creating 6- to 9-inch-diameter cuts and weighing only 86 pounds. Shell Oil had a manifold stuck at a new well site in the Chukchi Sea, between Alaska and Russia. Cutting Edge was contracted to build and test cut four small saws, to be used as a back-up in case the primary band saw failed—it did. The wire saws were called to action and four critical wire saw cuts were made. Steve Stuart, dive master for American Marine, was quick to praise these efforts. “The Cutting Edge wire saws saved the day!” he said.

The Return of Big Red More recently, in 2015, Walsh Construction approached Cutting Edge about performing several underwater cuts for two new bridges over the Ohio River in Louisville, Kentucky. This was an easy answer for the contractor, as Big Red was ready and waiting. These mammoth 8-foot-diameter piers were required to support construction of the new bridges. The outer steel shell was 1-inch thick and a circle of #18 steel bars were embedded in the concrete fill. The wire saw operator used Big Red to cut five piers making up to four cuts on each, averaging eight hours per cut. In some instances, the saw would be flipped upside down to cut nearly flush to the river bottom and achieve the correct elevation for the customer. In total, 14 pier sections were cut and lifted out, averaging 55 tons per pick.

These are just a few examples of how underwater wire sawing with diamond tools can be a cut above (yet below) other methods. Wire sawing provides increased speed and precision with reduced vibration and noise compared with other demolition techniques. It places the operator a safe distance from the cutting face, reducing safety risks, while maintaining the structural integrity of whatever is being cut—critical when working on and around damaged underwater structures.

How Does Wire Sawing Work?

A multi-strand cable with diamond segments is threaded through a series of pulleys and is continuously pulled across and through the concrete. Since virtually no concrete structure or cross-section is too large to cut, wire saws are used where other cutting methods are impractical. The only restriction placed on the size and weight of a concrete piece cut by a wire saw, is simply the lifting capacity and removal specifications of the device transporting the piece.

Wire sawing professionals can set up equipment to perform two types of cut—push or pull. As the names suggest, the methods involve pushing or pulling the wire in a given direction to complete a cut by the placement of pulleys and the adjustment of wire length and tension.

Electroplated lengths of diamond wire are commonly used for underwater cutting, typically 10 millimeters in diameter with 40-48 beads per meter. Earlier diamond wire designs consisted of plastic injected over springs, but today many are rubber injected over springs.

Wire can be ordered to any length, making it a very versatile tool.

COMPANY PROFILE Cutting Edge Services Corporation has been in business for 18 years and is based in Batavia, Ohio. Support operations are located in Houston and Richland, Washington. The company offers primary services of engineered solutions, diamond wire sawing, underwater cutting and core drilling. Cutting Edge has been a member of CSDA since 1997, employs CSDA Certified Operators and is certified through the association’s Company Certification Program.

RESOURCES Sawing and Drilling Contractors: Cutting Edge Services Corporation Batavia, Ohio Phone: 513-388-0199 Email: beckman@cuttingedgeservices.com Website: www.cuttingedgeservices.com

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Core Health Industry Bits continued

Ranking the Best Oils for Cooking

By Erin O’Brien

I

f you are a regular reader of this column, hopefully you have been convinced to eat healthier and cook at home more often than eating out. If so, congrats! It’s one of the hardest and most time-consuming steps to a healthier lifestyle, but definitely worth it. If not, and you need further motivation, I hope this article helps to convince you.

I have been a very vocal advocate of including healthy fats in your diet, especially coconut oil, butter and olive oil. As we all know, anything consumed in moderation is usually not too bad for you. But we all use oils and fats a

Type of Oil

lot in cooking—so how do you know which ones to use when? I have researched several reputable sources in order to get a variety of information and help you decide which oils to buy, how and when to use them and what benefits and risks each provides. Please see table below.

Every oil has about 120 calories and 13g of fat per tablespoon—what makes them different are things like flavor, aroma and most importantly, chemical composition. Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty

acids (PUFA) occur in each oil in different quantities, and the ratio between the two determines whether the fat is a solid or liquid at room temperature, what its smoking point is and how it affects the human body.

The smoking point of an oil or fat is the temperature where it begins to smoke and start to lose its nutrients and flavor. Oils with higher smoke points are better for high-heat cooking like frying, sautéing and grilling, while oils with lower smoke points are better for dressings, marinades and flavoring. Exposing oils to

Smoke Point

Pros

Cons

Olive

375-470F

Rich in polyphenols (helpful antioxidants), good MUFA to PUFA ratio

Low smoke point so better for dressings and marinades

Flaxseed

About 225F

High concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids, shown to lower blood pressure, low in saturated fat

Spoils quickly, best for low-heat cooking or dressings. Poor MUFA to PUFA ratio

Canola

400F

High in Omega-3s, good MUFA to PUFA ratio, high smoke point

Almost all canola oil grown in the U.S. is GMO, so choose organic, cold-pressed or expeller-pressed canola oil

Avocado

400F

Great MUFA to PUFA ratio, high smoke point, loaded with Vitamin E

Can be very expensive

Walnut

160-200F

Good Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio

High in PUFA which means prone to rancidity, low smoke point

Sesame

350-410F

High smoke point

Not many nutrients, unfavorably high ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6

Peanut

450F

One of the highest smoke points, great for deep-frying

Can be chemically extracted – choose varieties labeled “roasted”, “toasted” or “expeller-pressed”

Sunflower

440F

High smoke point and a neutral flavor that lends itself to many dishes and uses

Comprised almost entirely of Omega-6 fatty acids

Coconut

350F

Comprised primarily of medium-chain fatty acids (MFCA) which are burned rapidly by the liver and used for energy instead of being stored for fat. Has a long shelf-life

Conflicting research on the health benefits and detriments of saturated fats, which coconut oil is high in

Palm Fruit

450F

Rich in Vitamin E and beta-carotene, long shelf life, good MUFA to PUFA ratio

High percentage of saturated fat, some harvesting methods are detrimental to the environment

Grapeseed

390F

High smoke point

High in Omega-6 fatty acids, possible source of dangerous levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Soybean & Vegetable

450F

Cheap and widely available, high smoke point

Just about everything else – usually refined and contains GMO ingredients. Some studies show these oils are more harmful than sugar

Corn

450F

High smoke point

Extremely high MUFA to PUFA ratio – 49:1, high likelihood of GMO ingredients

Best Choices

Consume in Moderation

Avoid if Possible

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heat and oxygen causes them to oxidize. With enough heat, “cooking oil polar compounds” form and some research has sown these compounds to be toxic to humans, possibly raising blood pressure, cholesterol and risk of heart disease. Exposure to the compounds is minimized by choosing oils with higher amounts of MUFA than PUFA. Due to their chemical structure, MUS are more resistant to heat and oxidation. Oils high in MUFA include olive, avocado, canola, sesame and soybean.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 are two types of PUFAs. A good balance of the two is important to a healthy diet. Oils and foods containing oils high in Omega-3s are important to include—ish and fish oils are two of the largest and best sources of Omega-3s, but they can also be found in other oils like walnut, canola and flaxseed. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in abundance in processed and packaged foods, refined plant oils, eggs, proteins and some nuts and seeds, and should be consumed in moderation as they have a negative effect on your body. The optimal ratio of MUFAs to PUFAs is 4:1.

Finally, the process used to produce oils can also introduce heat into the mix and produce polar compounds and further degrade the oil. When buying oils, be sure to choose one that is cold-pressed or expeller-pressed.

Cold-pressed means the oil is extracted without heath, thereby retaining the flavor, aroma and nutrients of the oil. Expellerpressing is a mechanical process to squeeze the oil from the source.

Please use this information to make smart, educated choices about what kinds of oils you buy and use in your daily cooking.

Remember that in moderation, very few foods will cause any lasting harm to your body but the more smart choices you make, the healthier you will be.

Erin O’Brien, MS, ATC is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Marketing Director for O’Brien International, the association management company for the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association. O’Brien received her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training from Ohio University and her Master of Science degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida. She is also a Certified Level 1 CrossFit Instructor and member of CrossFit9 in St. Petersburg, FL. She is a regular contributor to Concrete Openings magazine and can be reached at erin@csda.org or 727-577-5002.

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Tech Talk Tech Talk is a regular feature of Concrete Openings magazine, focusing on equipment, maintenance and technical issues of interest to concrete cutting, polishing and imaging contractors. Readers wishing to have a particular subject addressed can call or email CSDA with their suggestions at 727-577-5004 or rhitchen@concreteopenings.com.

Hammer and Crusher Attachments

By Peter Bigwood

A

s demolition robots continue to take their place in the arsenals of concrete cutters across the country, attention turns to the variety of attachments that give them their reputation for versatility. There are generally five attachments that are widely considered to be the most popular: hydraulic breakers, crushers, buckets, grapples and scabblers. Hydraulic rock drills come in a close sixth. This article will focus on the two most popular: hydraulic breakers and concrete crushers.

Almost all remote-controlled demolition machines are delivered with hydraulic hammers mounted at the end of the arm as standard. In many ways, it can be said that demo robots are designed ‘backwards,’ starting with the breaker. Essentially, hydraulic breakers are ‘dumb’—that is, without oil flow and pressure from the carrier, appropriately low back pressure back to tank, and sufficient downward forces, they are useless.

And therein lies the secret of demolition robots—they are specifically designed to deliver exactly what the hammers demand, squeezing out close to 100% of the rated available performance. It’s what makes demolition robots so powerful for their size, but there are a number of measures to take to get the best out of the hammers.

A little preventative maintenance will go a long way towards extending the working life of the hammers typically found on demolition robots. While they are generally of the low-maintenance ‘solid body’ type, it is still critical to check all bolts, hoses, fittings and working tools on a daily basis.

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Make sure that the tool steel is properly lubricated, with the correct manufacturerrecommended chisel paste. Ordinary grease is simply not adequate. True chisel paste, available from the hammer manufacturer, is a special formulation with copper and graphite particles that can withstand the extremely high heat and pressure generated inside the hammer. Robots come equipped with automatic lubrication systems, but technicians have come across situations where either they have been disconnected, or the chisel paste has been allowed to run out. There should always be evidence of the chisel paste seeping down about two inches at the top of the chisel, below the bushing. If it is dry, or if shiny spots can be seen on the surface, there is a problem.

Additionally, on at least a monthly basis, inspect the tool and bushing to make sure they are both within the manufacturer’s operating parameters.

The working tools themselves are an often neglected area, where a little planning can go a long way. The most common hammer bit is the narrow chisel, but sometimes this is not the best choice. Note that a blunt chisel or even a flared out “elephant’s foot” can be far

more effective at breaking up large expanses of concrete. A moiled point, by contrast, can be counter-productive in certain situations, burying itself in the material rather than propagating the desired cracking.

It is said that a demolition robot ‘makes its money’ on walls and ceilings. Unlike a miniexcavator, the geometry of the three-piece arm means that you can exert significant force at virtually any angle. When a job involves a good deal of breaking concrete overhead, a useful tip is to fashion a kind of shield for the hammer. Find an old piece of rubber, about a foot square, and cut an ‘X’ in the middle. Poke the chisel through the middle and slide the rubber piece up to the bushing.

This will prevent the bulk of the concrete dust and debris from working its way into the bushing. While not ideal, even a thick piece of cardboard would help in a pinch. Note that solid body hammers do incorporate dust seals to help protect the tool and bushing area.

The rule of thumb for breaking concrete effectively is to hold the chisel at a 90 degree angle to the work. Straying from a right angle will reduce the impact power of the hammer.

In certain circumstances, however, this can

be used as an advantage. In an area where conditions call for reduced impact—to reduce the risk of micro-fractures, for example— purposely attack the surface at an angle. There are other, more formal ways to ‘dial down’ the impact energy of the breaker (consult the manufacturer’s operating manual), but this is a quick solution which can also work on a temporary basis.

When breaking concrete, if the tool point hasn’t penetrated the material after 30 seconds, stop and try for a smaller ‘bite.’ Once an operator has determined the appropriately sized pieces, they can develop a good rhythm and increase productivity.

Next to breakers, hydraulic crushers are probably the second most popular attachment for demolition robots, and are especially useful for concrete cutting contractors. They are particularly effective in reinforced concrete and are productive in any position.

Designed specifically to match the flows and pressures available from the robot, crushers are compact enough to be maneuverable and precise in close quarters, but still pack an extraordinary amount of power for their size. Ideal for jobs in offices,

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Tech Talk

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schools or even hospitals, their single biggest advantage is that they are virtually silent when working and generate very little vibration. This makes interior demolition work in occupied space not only possible, but profitable. Dust can be controlled more effectively, and while productivity is not quite on par with hydraulic breakers, using crushers indoors allows the savvy contractor to manage overtime, control costs and complete jobs quickly.

There are a number of ways to get the best out of crushers and prolong their working lives.

Crushing tips and cutting heads should be inspected on a regular basis. They are replaceable, and should not be allowed to wear to the point where the underlying jaws are damaged.

A rule of thumb for crushers is that if the material fits in the jaw opening, it can be processed. An internal pressure booster kicks in when high resistance is encountered, and is generally able to break the concrete. Cutting surfaces near the throat can handle rebar up to one inch in diameter. It is important to let the crusher do the work, and NOT use the robot’s arm system to try to dislodge the material.

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Removing concrete and rebar in one bite and keeping the crusher against the work without repositioning makes for very high productivity.

Crushers rotate a continuous 360 degrees, but are ‘knock around’ style—the rotation is not powered by the carrier, but rather the operator ‘knocks’ the crusher around into the optimum angle of attack, where it will stay (note that a hydraulically-powered rotation option is also available). This procedure is much faster than positioning with hydraulic rotation and keeps tool weight low. It is important that when doing this, the operator avoids hitting the cylinders, but instead uses the tips of the jaws. This prevents damage to the cylinders, and offers more torque to rotate the attachment into the desired position. Unlike a breaker, the angle of attack for a crusher has no bearing on its ability to break the material.

Never operate the crusher with the robot’s arm’s cylinders at the end of their travel, as the forces the crusher can generate could damage the cylinder seals and bushings.

Much like eating a sandwich, it is preferable not to take a full ‘bite’ out of especially thick concrete, but rather leave room

in the throat of the crusher for the material to move. On most crushers it is possible to add additional teeth, which makes them more effective for demolishing thinner concrete.

Demolition robots open new opportunities for concrete cutters to expand their capabilities in areas where access is limited, in confined space, in zero-emission places like occupied offices, schools and hospitals, and breakers and crushers play a critical role in all these applications. Attention to regular maintenance procedures, and focusing on sound operating principles will pay enormous dividends in deriving the greatest benefits from whichever size demolition robot is part of your fleet.

Peter Bigwood is the Vice-President of Sales & Marketing for CSDA member Brokk Inc., based in Monroe, Washington, and currently serves on the association’s Board of Directors. Peter has several years’ experience in the robotic demolition segment of the industry, having previously been the President of Atlas Copco Construction Tool Inc. He can be reached at peter@brokkinc.com.

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Industry Bits Brokk 280 Introduced to Industry Brokk, a leading manufacturer of remote-controlled demolition machines, has introduced its new Brokk 280. The demolition robot features a 20foot reach and weighs 6,945 pounds. By generating as much as 25 percent more breaking performance—a combination of impact power and blow frequency—over its predecessor, the Brokk 280 delivers increased productivity. Brokk also introduces an all-new electrical system, Brokk SmartPower, on the new 280. The system includes hardened components and fewer moving parts, optimizing performance in power supply quality and ambient temperature. Brokk SmartPower senses when a power supply is poor or faulty, making it suitable for generators or unreliable power supplies. The electrical system can also be set to work on worn fuses. The SmartPower intelligent motor control uses smart dynamic effect control to monitor temperatures of the electric and hydraulic systems. It also tracks the electrical motor’s power usage and adjusts the machine to use more power in cold environments and less power in hot environments.

For More Information Contact: Peter Bigwood Tel: 413-537-5572 Email: peter@brokkinc.com www.brokk.com

SHIBUYA Introduces Auto-Feed System for Core Drills A new auto-feed system has been introduced by SHIBUYA for the company’s line of concrete core drills, designed to provide time and cost savings for the professional user. The system can operate more than one core drill at a time and is designed to be able to drill multiple holes in less time than a manual feed setup. In addition, the consistent in-feed pressure provided by the auto-feed system can increase bit life. To avoid operators encountering downtime due to thrown circuit breakers, the system senses the amps being pulled and adjusts speed and amps. Auto-feed sensors automatically shut off the core drill when the bit begins free-wheeling, gets stuck or reaches a predetermined depth. This new system can adapt to all models.

For More Information Contact: Mike Orzechowski Email: mikeo@diteq.com www.diteq.com

New Hand-Held Electric Saw from Diamond Products Diamond Products Limited is pleased to introduce the latest addition to its existing hand-held saw line with the new C16 electric powered unit. The unit is powered by a 120-volt, 15-amp electric motor with overload protection and a load warning LED light that is highly visible to the operator. The lightweight magnesium blade guard features a removable side for flush cutting and is fully adjustable with splash protection. This 16-inch-diameter blade capacity saw offers a maximum cutting depth of 6 inches. The heavy-duty electrical cord includes PRCD protection. The C16 saw also includes a water feed system with fine adjustable flow and quick-release coupling for wet cutting along with a dust port for dry cutting. Durable guide rollers assist with keeping the saw stable along a surface while helping the operator during cutting.

For More Information Contact: Jim Palmer Tel: 800-321-5336 Email: jpalmer@diamondproducts.com www.diamondproducts.com 4 6 | DECEMBER.16

Hilti DD AF-CA Auto-Feed Unit The Hilti DD AF–CA auto-feed unit with Cut Assist technology is described as an autopilot for the Hilti DD 350-CA or DD 500-CA diamond core rig. The operator connects the applicable diameter bit for core drilling with the Hilti DD AF-CA auto-feed unit and the Cut Assist technology knows to turn on the water supply when beginning to core. It then begins in a very slow hole starting mode until a kerf has been cut into the concrete and then speeds up until rebar is detected. When heavy rebar is encountered, the tool knows to shift into a lower gear then speed back up after passing the rebar. The auto-feed unit also knows to stop coring once the hole is finished, back the core bit out of the hole and even turn off the water upon exiting the hole. The auto-feed system has been designed to avoid having operators standing over core rigs for hours, leading to less exposure to slurry and vibration. It also eliminates manual adjustments to the core rig handle or torque during the coring process.

For More Information Tel: 800-879-8000 (U.S.), 800-363-4458 (Canada) www.us.hilti.com (U.S.), www.hilti.ca (Canada)

CSDA 2017 Annual Meeting Notice The annual meeting of the members of the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at the Gran Meliá Golf Resort in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, for the purpose of receiving reports, transacting business and electing officers and directors.

For More Information Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org

Pipe Cutting Machine Released by CS Unitec CS Unitec’s new pipe cutting machine cuts and bevels pipe from 6 to 63 inches in diameter with a wall thickness up to 2 inches. This two-speed, pneumatic machine operates at 1,800 RPM for cutting and 350 RPM for low-speed/high-torque beveling. Model 5 8002 7000 cuts ductile iron, ferrous and non-ferrous metal including stainless steel, HDPE, plastic and concrete pipe. It also bevels 45-, 60- and 90-degree angles with optional blades for on-site weld preparation. The pipe cutting machine uses 77 CFM air volume at 90 PSI air pressure and weighs 28 pounds. ATEX Certified under Class II 2 GcT6, the tool can be used in industrial zones where flammable gas, vapor, mist and dust may be present and where surface temperatures do not exceed 185 degrees Fahrenheit. The pipe cutting machines features two 7-inch-diameter blades—one carbide tipped and one diamond coated— with blade guard, adjustable cutting depth and water connection for cooling the blade. The machine is guided manually with the hand lever feed to make a 360-degree cut in the pipe. The guide chain can be adjusted by adding and removing chain links.

For More Information Tel: 800-700-5919 Email: info@csunitec.com www.csunitec.com

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Industry Bits

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New Husqvarna WSC 40 Chain Saw The WSC 40 is a remote-controlled chain saw attachment designed to cut precise corners as well as flush cut. It can be combined with Husqvarna’s WS 482 HF and WS 440 HF wall sawing systems, converting them from blade to chain sawing systems. The WSC 40 has a chain speed of 92 feet per second, a maximum cutting depth of 16 inches and weighs 39 pounds with bar and chain installed. The chain saw attachment installs on the spindle and fits into the kerf without re-positioning the rail. It is also suitable for flush cutting close to floors, ceilings or walls using the same track as the wall saw systems. The WSC 40 has been designed to give the operator simple access to the tool for chain tensioning and comes with a shock protection feature that prevents damage to the chain and attachment.

For More Information Contact: Cate Stratemeier Tel: 913-928-1442 Email: cate.stratemeier@husqvarnagroup.com

Merit to Debut Gas-Powered Flat Saws at WOC Merit Engineering & Equipment Company is preparing for World of Concrete 2017, where the company will be debuting a new line of spark-ignited gas-powered flat saws. The models in this new lineup provide cost-efficient alternatives to some Tier 4 diesel-powered saws on the market. This gives professional concrete cutters further options for meeting Environmental Protection Agency and carbon emission requirements without sacrificing horsepower, torque or performance.

Merit currently has spark-ignited saws ranging from 14 to 65 horsepower. The new saws are 38 and 87 horsepower but are available in three new frame styles. A comprehensive lineup of Merit saws, including the new spark-ignited gas-powered units, will be on display at the company’s outdoor World of Concrete booth, O30748.

The manufacturer has also donated a slab saw for a raffle drawing at the CSDA exhibit booth (#C4433) during WOC, scheduled for Tuesday, January 17th.

For More Information Contact: Sarah Marshall Email: s.marshall@meritsaw.com www.meritsaw.com

Bosch Introduces 18-Volt Brushless Rotary Hammer Bosch is pleased to introduce the GBH18V-26 1-inch SDSplus® EC Brushless rotary hammer. The hammer delivers 1.9 foot-pounds of torque in a tool that weighs 7.7 pounds and its ergonomic L-shape has been designed for optimal horizontal power transmission. The GBH18V-26 has twice the motor life of its predecessors together with reduced maintenance due to its lighter weight and smaller EC brushless motor. Bosch electronic precision control ensures soft-start (70 percent) to help avoid walking or skating.

Dust extraction is facilitated by an optional on-tool dust extraction adapter (available 2017). Other features include a proprietary KickBack Control, an integrated acceleration sensor that virtually stops the drill’s rotation during bit bind-up situations, and vibration control for added user safety and ease of use. The Bosch GBH18V-26 rotary hammer can achieve a maximum 900 RPM. For More Information Contact: Steve Wilcox Tel: 224-232-2417 Email: steve.wilcox@us.bosch.com 4 8 | DECEMBER.16

One power source.

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CBK HF Wall Saw

3P8 HF Wire Saw Pentpak 427

CW630 HF Chain Saw

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icsdiamondtools.com

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 4 9

Ed Hallowell, 1928-2016 Retired industry professional Edmund M. Hallowell of Tabernacle, New Jersey, passed away peacefully October 16, 2016. He was 88 years old. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ed was the son of the late Edmund M. and Deretta Sands Hallowell and resided in Tabernacle for 30 years. Ed was a graduate of Temple University and was the former owner of Hallowell & Company in Mt. Holly, New Jersey—an early CSDA member company— until his retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing and numerous outdoors activities. He was the beloved husband of Joanne Edmund M. Hallowell M. Stokes-Hallowell and father of Jill Hallowell-Foley; the late Caryll Wilson; Christopher J. Stokes; Jay Michael Stokes and Raymond A. Stokes. He was also a grandfather of 13, great grandfather of several and will be missed by all who knew him.

SKILSAW Introduces First Worm Drive Saw for Concrete SKILSAW, a leader in the manufacture of wood-cutting saws for more than 90 years, has announced the world’s first fully integrated worm drive saw designed to score and cut concrete.

MEDUSAW™ is the first worm drive concrete saw that delivers a complete concrete cutting system. SKILSAW engineered this saw with an integrated wet/dry dust management system to control dust, allowing for cleaner cuts, and GFCI protection. MEDUSAW features a Cut-Ready™ adjustable plunge lock that allows users to set and make consistent plunge cuts. The saw also has an integrated rolling foot plate with rubber wheels that help users move it across hard surfaces and rust-resistant brackets and fasteners to protect against corrosion. It also includes a retractable front pointer that guides the saw along the cut line and retracts for tight spaces.

MEDUSAW comes equipped with an onboard multi-function wrench for users to change the blade, oil, brush, water feed attachment and wheels. The saw will be available at World of Concrete 2017 and through industrial distributors nationwide afterwards.

For More Information Contact: Linda Mueller Tel: 224-232-2991 Email: linda.mueller@us.bosch.com 5 0 | DECEMBER.16

Industry Bits Dixie Diamond-Concut Group Adds Regional Sales Managers The Dixie Diamond-Concut Group is pleased to announce that Garry Henderson has joined the company as Regional Sales Manager for the East Coast. In his new role, Garry will lead the firm’s regional sales team throughout the eastern states. Garry brings extensive industry knowledge and experience to his new Garry Henderson position. Most recently, Garry served as the Southeast Regional Sales Manager for ICS. Prior to that, he held sales and management jobs at Hilti, Penhall Diamond Products and the Penhall Company. Garry will be based at the Dixie Diamond-Concut headquarters near Atlanta. The company has also promoted Don Nielsen to Regional Sales Manager for the central U.S. Over the past three years, Don has worked as the sales representative for Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota. He will now oversee the company’s sales efforts in a 15 state territory.

Prior to joining Dixie Diamond, Don worked for over 10 years in the concrete cutting industry Don Nielsen assuming the positions of operator, dispatcher and superintendent.

Don is based in Chicago, Illinois.

For More Information Contact: Garrett Wolters Tel: 800-654-7224 Email: garrettwolters@dixiediamond.com

Diamond Products Announces CB744 Four-Speed Drill Motor Diamond Products Limited has announced the newest addition to its electric core drill motor lineup, the CB744 electric four-speed drill motor. This extra high-efficiency 2200-watt, 25amp motor allows for a 18-inch bit capacity and aluminum housing for better cooling and durability. The advanced motor protection electronics include soft-start, overheat and overload protection. It has a built-in LED amp meter which means the operator does not need a control panel for operation. The CB744 mounts to the M-1, M-2, M-5 and M-5PRO drill rigs.

For More Information Contact: Jim Palmer Tel: 800-321-5336 Email: jpalmer@diamondproducts.com www.diamondproducts.com

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 5 1

Industry Bits

continued

K2 Diamond Appoints New Sales Manager

DITEQ Expands Brute Diamond Tool Lineup DITEQ Corporation has announced the expansion of the Brute diamond product line to include ring saw blades and wall saw blades in addition to core bits, hand saw and general purpose blades. This product incorporates G3 ARIX™ technology, an advanced 3D diamond distribution process throughout each segment, combined with a new bond formula designed to make the tools faster and more aggressive. Brute products are suitable for cutting through concrete, concrete with rebar and brick.

For More Information Contact: Mike Orzechowski Email: mikeo@diteq.com www.diteq.com

5 2 | DECEMBER.16

K2 Diamond is very pleased to announce the addition of Gary Ferras to the company.

Gary has accepted the position of Northwest Territory Sales Manager covering the Pacific Northwest, which includes central and northern California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. Ferras has extensive knowledge of concrete cutting tools and equipment, having served more than 20 years in the industry and having been in the construction business for over 35 years. He grew up and has lived in the San Francisco Bay Gary Ferras area most of his life, with his wife and two grown children.

For More Information Contact: Mike Nelson Tel: 800-539-6116 Email: mike.nelson@k2diamond.com

Uncommon Bonds

Beaver Bits are now in stock on the east and west coast at both the DDM and Concut facility.

These high performance bits cut fast and drill through many very hard aggregates with extremely reliable results. They are in stock up to 16 inch and individual segments can be welded on any diameter or length.

Our Bond with Customers

Our Bond with the Industry

Our Bond Performance

Both companies have been dedicated to the customer for years. From our commitment to on-time delivery to our reputation for service, we’ve spent years building relationships with our customers.

We are fully American owned and operated.

And we are one of the few true manufacturers left in the country. Combined with our heavy M A N U F A C T U R I N G involvement with CSDA...no one knows the U.S. market better than we do.

100% virgin synthetic diamonds. Advanced production. And a complete understanding of the unique cutting needs across the country.

No matter the job, our bond performance delivers the ideal cut speed and longevity.

M A N U F A C T U R I N G

Dixie Diamond...There’s Nothing Common About Us. W WW. C O N C RE TE OPE N IN GS.COM

1.800.654.7224 | dixiediamond.com C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 5 3

Industry Bits

continued

LATICRETE Supercap Announces Partnership with Texas Motor Speedway® LATICRETE Supercap recently announced that the company has partnered with Texas Motor Speedway® to install new high-tech floors in the speedway’s two garage areas and tech bays. The company is now the “Official Garage Flooring System of Texas Motor Speedway”. The new race-car garage floors debuted November 4-6 at the AAA Texas 500 NASCAR® tripleheader weekend. The new floors, a first in NASCAR, cover 22,000 square feet and house 48 individual service bays plus the Technical Service Inspection Station where every team sends their race-car for an intensive inspection before racing.

The LATICRETE system includes products designed specifically for commercial garages, warehouses and airplane hangars where performance is a factor because of elements like hot tires, hazardous fluids and the regular use of heavy equipment within the area.

For More Information Contact: Clint Schramm Tel: 631-445-5037 Email: clintschramm@laticretesupercap.com www.laticretesupercap.com.

ICRI Launches New Certification Program The International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) has developed a new certification program based on industry demand and code language for those interested in becoming a repair technician and inspector for the performance of concrete surface repairs. ICRI’s Concrete Surface Repair Technician (CSRT) Certification Program will offer enrollees the ability to become professionally qualified as a concrete surface repair inspector through a two-tier program, including training modules and exams, all for one registration price.

This is a competency-based program that uses current best practices for online training and evaluation. The educational component is presented and tested online while the performance component is tested both online and assessed by observable criteria (video submission or live recorded).

Tier 1 is designed for those not regularly engaged with concrete surface repair while Tier 2 has been created for those who seek full certification, typically having a goal of professional work in mind. Both tiers require participation in five online training modules, with each module incorporating education, training and questions. Tier 2 full certification applicants are also required to take an online knowledge exam and perform each of the four ASTM tests included in the program, either through a video recording submission or live at ICRI on-site locations (now available).

For More Information Contact: Jess Myers Tel: 651-290-7465 www.icri.org/page/cert_techprogram.

5 4 | DECEMBER.16

New Air-Cooled Power Pack from Wolverine Wolverine Equipment is pleased to announce its newest innovation in hydraulic power pack design. The new WP-15EVA vertical electric hydraulic power pack has an air-cooled system that allows the unit to be run continuously without water. This efficient system extends the life of the pump and protects the 15-horsepower motor from damage.

The WP-15EVA is designed specifically for use in sawing and drilling jobs that are inside buildings, underground or in other enclosed spaces. An electric motor is preferred in those applications in order to mitigate concerns about exhaust, fumes, fuel consumption and noise output. As with other models the WP-15EVA is built on a compact and portable hand-cart frame. With its small 18.5-inch by 24.5inch footprint and 292-pound weight, this power pack is easy to transport and maneuver. Other standard features include an automatic low oil shutdown and fully adjustable flow from 0 to 12 gallons per minute.

For More Information Contact: Bill Darling Tel: 253-867-6209 Email: bill@wolverineequipment.com

Industry Bits

Photo courtesy of mariosalazarphotography.com

CentralPoint Solutions Launches New CenPoint Portal

Dan Foley (right) receives his award.

Contractor Receives Award for Charitable Efforts CSDA Board member Dan Foley of Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. in Arlington Heights, Illinois, was recently awarded the Gloria’s Angels Memorial Award for his time, support and dedication to the Little Angels charity organization. Little Angels is a loving home for children and young adults with severe disabilities and complex medical needs located in Elgin. Foley received his award September 24 at the charity’s 7th Annual Angel Songs Gala on the Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills.

For More Information Tel: 847-741-1609 www.littleangels.org.

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CenPoint Software is an effective tool to help business owners manage their companies. The software is designed to help manage an office, employees, time cards, jobs, customers and inventory/ equipment all in one place. In continued collaboration with customers, CentralPoint Solutions has released its new CenPoint Portal.

The Portal makes it possible for anyone with an internet connection to enjoy the popular features of CenPoint Mobile. For companies that have both Android and iPhone users, CenPoint Portal can be accessed from any iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Kindle, PC or Mac. The new Portal matches CenPoint Mobile’s features, which have enabled customers to improve office work flow—saving time and money. Portal features include tech dispatching, JSA’s, digital signatures, pre-trip inspections, time clock and customer management.

For more information Contact: Ryan Rindlisbacher Tel: 801-478-6822 x301 Email: sales@cenpoint.com www.cenpoint.com

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 5 5

Industry Bits

continued

Diamond Products Introduces G.O. High Speed Blades

VBelt Partners with Roller Chain Supply CSDA affiliate VBelt Global Supply, one of the largest distributors of VBelts in the U.S., has partnered with RollerChainSupply.com to offer a full line of chain, sprocket and other power transmission products on a newly designed e-procurement platform. As an added benefit for CSDA member companies, the new platform offers registered accounts to keep track of invoices, product use and a quick re-order option along with wholesale pricing to provide quality products at reduced prices. Customers have a dedicated procurement specialist to research specific product needs and the e-procurement platform has purchasing options available 24/7. VBelt Supply has a full line of after-market VBelts to fit equipment made by Husqvarna, Stihl and many more.

Diamond Products Limited is pleased to announce a new line of high speed blades called G.O. – Grain Organized. Diamonds in the segments are organized in rows for longer life and a constant cutting edge. The bond specification (H8GO) is used on general purpose concrete. These blades have standard straight segments and turbo segments that increase cutting speed while protecting the core for undercutting. The blades are available in 12-inch, 14-inch and 16-inch diameters.

For More Information Contact: Jim Palmer Tel: 800-321-5336 Email: jpalmer@diamondproducts.com www.diamondproducts.com

For More Information Tel: 888-732-0394 www.rollerchainsupply.com

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Hand-Carry Power Pack Single or Three Phase Power

New Line of Hand-Held Grinders from Bosch Robert Bosch Tool Corporation has released its new lineup of small corded and cordless angle grinders, which includes the 18-volt GWS18V-50. The 18-volt GWS18V-50 cordless grinder features a fourpole motor and a 5-inch disc diameter capacity. It weighs 4 pounds and measures 11 inches long. The motor provides up to 10,000 no-load RPM. In addition, longer multi-grip paddle switches allow users to grip the grinder in virtually any position along the ergonomic barrel. This design change also ensures the tool’s air inlets aren’t obstructed by hands. The GWS18V-50 also includes a two-position Vibration Control™ side handle and overload protection.

www.RentalToolsOnline.com

5 6 | DECEMBER.16

For More Information Contact: Steve Wilcox Tel: 224-232-2417 Email: steve.wilcox@us.bosch.com

January 17-20, 2017 Las Vegas, Nevada

Best Registration Deal!* *Some restrictions may apply

Use Source Code

A26 for $20 exhibits-only registration (normally $70)

Industry Training from Estimating Class

January 16-17

Course Code CSDAMT

January 17

ST-115 Certification Course Code CSDATU GPR Certification

January 17-18

Diamond Cutting:

January 18-19

Concrete Polishing

January 18-19

Sharpen Your Skills

Course Code CSDATW Course Code CSDAWTH Course Code CSDAPWTH

See You in Vegas!

For more information, visit www.csda.org/woc or call 727-577-5004

W WW. C O N C RE TE OPE N IN GS.COM

WOC Booth #C4433

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 5 7

Industry Bits

continued

Jerry Hoyle, 1947-2016 Jerry Hoyle, CEO of CSDA member CTS Cement Manufacturing, passed away October 31, 2016 at the age of 69. He is survived by his wife Ann and his two children.

Hoyle was president and CEO of CTS from 2011 to 2014.

He relinquished his positon as president in 2014 and assumed the position of Vice-Chairman of the Board, Jerry Hoyle while retaining his position as CEO. He was a member of the American Management Association and a past Board member of the Merchants and Manufacturers Association. He had a broad range of expertise within the mining/ manufacturing arena including mineralogy, quarrying, cement plant operations, multiple kilns, finish grinding, product specifications, quality assurance programs and product applications. Bill McCormick will serve as the acting CEO. He is the former president of CTS and Chairman of the Board.

Robert Paul Weatherton, 1932-2016 Robert “Bob” Weatherton passed away October 22, 2016 after a battle with cancer.

He was 84. As owner of the Concrete Pump Store, Bob revolutionized the concrete pumping industry by developing the articulating boom arm for concrete pumps and cofounded the World of Concrete trade show. He served on the American Concrete Pumping Association’s Board of Directors for over 40 years and in 2013 was named him one of Robert Weatherton the most influential people in the concrete industry by Concrete Construction. Bob was a Claremont, California resident since 1961. In 1954, he married Nancy McCullough who predeceased Bob in 2008. They had two sons, Dan, who died 2012, and Tim. Bob is survived by his wife Jane Goodfellow, his son Tim, grandchildren Kirk and Kelsey, his brother Clay and three nieces. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bob Weatherton Scholarship Award through Concrete Industry Management (CIM).

For More Information Email: jackie.james@informa.com

5 8 | DECEMBER.16

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 5 9

Certification OPERATOR CERTIFICATION CSDA’s Operator Certification is a comprehensive six-day program that combines detailed classroom instruction with on-slab demonstration and evaluation of advanced concrete cutting techniques. Safety, proper equipment use and efficiency are emphasized. CSDA certified operators are recognized industry-wide for their proficiency in the full range of sawing and drilling applications.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS • Successful completion of CSDA Cutting Edge, Slab Sawing & Drilling 101, Wall Sawing 101 or Wire Sawing 101 • Three years field experience (4,500 hours) • Successful completion of 10-hour OSHA Construction Safety course • No more than one lost-time injury within the last three years • Unrestricted driver’s license • Negative drug test within 30 days of taking the course

ABC CUTTING CONTRACTORS BIRMINGHAM

CORING & CUTTING OF SPRINGFIELD, INC.

HOUSLEY DEMOLITION CO., INC.

Bessemer, Alabama

Nixa, Missouri

Visalia, California

ABC CUTTING CONTRACTORS MOBILE

CORING & CUTTING SERVICES, INC.

INTERNATIONAL DRILLING & SAWING, INC.

Daphine, Alabama

Bentonville, Arkansas

Montgomery, Alabama

ACE CONCRETE CUTTING

CORING & CUTTING SERVICES, INC.

INTERNATIONAL DRILLING & SAWING, INC.

Cumberland, Rhode Island

Jacksonville, Arkansas

Pensacola, Florida

ACCU-CUT CONCRETE SERVICES

CR MEYER

J-RAY CONTRACTORS, LLC

Palm Harbor, Florida

Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Marrero, Louisiana

AGGREGATE TECHNOLOGIES

CUT-RITE CONCRETE CUTTING CORP.

JACK DOHERTY CONTRACTING

Houston, Texas

Pawtucket, Rhode Island

Woburn, Massachussetts

AMERICAN EAGLE CONCRETE SERVICES

CUTTING EDGE SERVICES CORP.

K.C. CORING & CUTTING CONSTRUCTION, INC.

Orlando, Florida

Batavia, Ohio

Kansas City, Missouri

ANDERS CONSTRUCTION, INC.

D.M. CONLON/DAN-KEL CONCRETE CORING, SAWING & SCANNING

L&S FORMLESS CURB COMPANY

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

LIUNA LOCAL 506 TRAINING CENTRE

Harvey, Louisiana

ATLANTIC CONCRETE CUTTING, INC. Mt. Holly, New Jersey

DARI CONCRETE SAWING AND DRILLING

AUSTIN ENTERPRISE

Raleigh, North Carolina

Bakersfield, California

DEANDREA CORING & SAWING, INC.

B.T. RENTALS LIMITED

Henderson, Colorado

Woodbrook, Trinidad & Tobago

DELTA CONTRACTORS & ASSOCIATES, LLC

CENTRAL CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.

Baltimore, Maryland

Hanover, Pennsylvania Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada

LOMBARDO DIAMOND CORE DRILLING CO. Santa Clara, California

M6 CONCRETE CUTTING & CORING Wichita, Kansas

Edgar, Wisconsin

DIXIE CONCRETE CUTTING CO.

PENHALL COMPANY/CONCRETE CORING COMPANY OF HAWAII

CHESCO CORING & CUTTING, INC.

College Park, Georgia

Aiea, Hawaii

Malvern, Pennsylvania

EAST COAST CONCRETE SPECIALITIES, INC.

PG CUTTING SERVICES

CHICAGO CUT CONCRETE CUTTING

Jessup, Maryland

Lake Elsinore, California

Chicago, Illinois

ELMER’S CRANE & DOZER, INC.

QUICK CUTS CONCRETE CUTTING SERVICES, LLC

COBRA CONCRETE CUTTING SERVICES CO.

Traverse City, Michigan

Belvidere, Illinois

Arlington Heights, Illinois

FORRISTALL ENTERPRISES, INC.

ROUGHNECK CONCRETE DRILLING & SAWING

CONCRETE CUTTING & BREAKING CO.

Palmetto, Florida

Morton Grove, Illinois

Jacksonville, Florida

HAFNER & SON, INC.

SUPER CITY CONCRETE CUTTING

CONCRETE CUTTING SPECIALISTS, INC.

Danielsville, Pennsylvania

Ocean Grove, Victoria, Australia

Freeland, Michigan

HARD ROCK CONCRETE CUTTERS, INC.

TRUE LINE CORING & CUTTING OF CHATTANOOGA, LLC

CONCRETE PENETRATING CO.

Wheeling, Illinois

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Dallas, Texas

HARD ROCK SAWING & DRILLING SPECIALIST CO.

TRUE LINE CORING & CUTTING OF KNOXVILLE, LLC

CONCRETE RENOVATION, INC.

Keshena, Wisconsin

Knoxville, Tennessee

San Antonio, Texas

HOLES INCORPORATED

TRUE LINE CORING & CUTTING OF NASHVILLE, LLC

CONSTRUCTION DEBRIS REMOVAL, INC.

Houston, Texas

Nashville, Tennessee

St. Augustine, Florida

HOLES OF SAN ANTONIO, INC.

WOLF INDUSTRIAL SERVICES

CORE SOLUTIONS LTD.

San Antonio, Texas

Maraval, Trinidad & Tobago

6 0 | DECEMBER.16

San Francisco, California

COMPANY CERTIFICATION The CSDA Company Certification Program is the first of its kind in the industry. This program has been created for cutting contractors to provide owners, architects, engineers, general contractors and government officials with a valuable pre-qualification tool that acknowledges sound business practices. It is available to all sawing and drilling contractors.

A COMPANY MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA TO ACHIEVE CERTIFICATION: • Meet the basic safety, and insurance requirements of the industry • Undertake sound operational and financial best practices • Provide evidence it has took part in basic training or certification programs to better its employees and the company as a whole • Successfully pass a written application review

ATLANTIC CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.

DI-TECH INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Mount Holly, New Jersey

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

AUSTIN ENTERPRISE

GREENE’S, INC.

Bakersfield, California

Woods Cross, Utah

CENTRAL CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.

HARD ROCK CONCRETE CUTTERS, INC.

Edgar, Wisconsin

Wheeling, Illinois

COBRA CONCRETE CUTTING SERVICES CO. HOLES INCORPORATED Arlington Heights, Illinois

Houston, Texas

CONCRETE RENOVATION, INC.

ONLINE CONCRETE CUTTING SERVICES PTY. LTD

San Antonio, Texas

CUTTING EDGE SERVICES CORP. Batavia, Ohio

DEANDREA CORING & SAWING, INC.

Seven Hills, New South Wales, Australia

WESTCOAST CUTTING & CORING, LTD. Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada

Henderson, Colorado

ST-115 CERTIFICATION This certification is the first of its kind for measuring concrete surfaces and their surface texture value. The approach is to measure and analyze the surface texture in order to understand how the texture is influenced by the finishing process, and how the surface texture influences its behavior with regards to gloss, friction and sustainability. The certification is based on Standard CSDA-ST-115.

A CERTIFIED OPERATOR: • Has been provided instruction on how to correctly measure concrete micro surface texture • Has knowledge of proper tool selection to mitigate damage • Passed a written test • Was issued a certificate upon completion of the class For more information about this Standard, certification or a list of current ST-115 Certified companies, visit www.csda.org/st115.

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 6 1

Membership

NE

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ME

North American Contractors

GPR Imaging Contractor

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE CUTTING Saugus, Massachusetts

TEXAS CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS, LLC

FORRISTALL ENTERPRISES, INC.

Ponder, Texas

Palmetto, Florida

MBE

VANCOUVER CONCRETE CUTTING & CORING, INC. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Manufacturer DEXPAN USA / ARCHER USA Sunland Park, New Mexico

Overseas Contractor

Affiliates

CONCRETE SURGEONS EGYPT

SURFACE ANALYTICS

R

Cairo, Egypt

Lakewood, Colorado

VACUWORX Tulsa, Oklahoma

VERSAFLEX INCORPORATED

S

Kansas City, Kansas

MEMBER

BENEFITS SAFETY RESOURCES

UNTS O C DIS GRAM ember PROion negotiates mional

sociat ith nat The As programs w PS and t i benef aples, U provide t S e k i o rs l order t vendo .com in rtunities ly p p u s ppo V-belt vings o mbers. cost-sa DA Me for CS

6 2 | DECEMBER.16

NETWORKING

AND TOOLBOX SAFETY TIPS (TSTS) • 230-page CSDA Safety Manual • Safety Handbook in English/Spanish • Safety Videos for concrete cutters • Over 100 Toolbox Safety Tips (TSTs)

AT THE ANNUAL CONVENTION AND QUARTERLY MEETINGS The number one benefit for members has always been the opportunity to network with cutting professionals at the annual convention and quarterly meetings.

This networking provides opportunities to forge new relationships and learn from other experienced professionals.

NEXT GEN

CSDA NEXT GENERATION GROUP The group aims to continue the growth of the association while serving the needs and wants of the younger generation, with the goal of continuing to set a standard of excellence.

24/7

THE CSDA WEBSITE AT WWW.CSDA.ORG CONTAINS A WEALTH OF INFORMATION AVAILABLE 24/7 IN THE “MEMBERS” SECTION. IN ADDITION, CSDA’S FACEBOOK PAGE AND DISCUSSION FORUM GROUP PAGE ALSO PROVIDE MEMBERS WITH A CHANCE TO DISCUSS TECHNICAL ISSUES, SELL EQUIPMENT, HIRE EMPLOYEES OR ANY OTHER RELEVANT TOPICS.

TESTIMONIAL Several years ago I was asked why I had joined CSDA and, even back then, I had experienced enough to talk at length about the benefits of membership. While my reasons for remaining a member have not changed much over the years, they bear repeating as they are as important now as they were 15 years ago when I first signed up.

After starting out in the industry with a manufacturer, I established my own sawing and drilling business in 2000. By then, I had already become familiar with CSDA and knew it would be a smart move to get involved. I joined the association the following year and since then I’ve enjoyed the friendships, information and programs made available to me.

TRAINING Bennett Jones Advanced Concrete Sawing, Inc. St. Paul, Minnesota bennett@acsawing.com

To me, the wealth of knowledge available from other members within CSDA has been the most valuable benefit of joining the association.

By attending CSDA meetings and events, you have the opportunity to sit down and talk to professionals from every corner of the industry in a relaxed and social environment.

You can find out about new types of equipment, how to modify the equipment you have, learn a different approach to a particular type of job or get tips on managing employees.

Sometimes, you’ll even be the one giving advice.

OVER 4,000 INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS HAVE GRADUATED FROM MORE THAN 20 CLASSROOM, HANDS-ON AND ONLINE CSDA TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS FOCUSED ON CUTTING DISCIPLINES, ESTIMATING, POLISHING AND SAFETY. ONLINE TRAINING AT WWW.CSDATRAINING.COM OFFERS A COST-EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVE TO THOSE NOT ABLE TO AFFORD THE TIME OR THE MONEY TO SEND OPERATORS TO CLASSES.

As a member of CSDA, I have access to unparalleled programs and professionals from every aspect of the sawing and drilling industry that I couldn’t find anywhere else. This is why I remain a member.

DUESSCHEDULE REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.CSDA.ORG GROSS SALES

NORTH AMERICAN CONTRACTOR

POLISHING CONTRACTOR

GPR IMAGING MANUFACTURER DISTRIBUTOR OVERSEAS CONTRACTOR CONTRACTOR

$0 – 1M

$615

$750

$1,295

$945

$1 – 2M

$985

$1,600

$1,200

$2,385

$1,785

$2 – 3M

$1,500

$750

$400

$3 – 5M

$2,025

$1,250

$3,825

$2,885

$5 – 10M

$2,550

$5,175

$2,885

> $10M

$3,200

$6,395

$2,885

AFFILIATE

$750

For more information about CSDA membership, visit www.csda.org, call 727-577-5004 or email info@csda.org.

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C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 6 3

Calendar

2017 JANUARY 16-17 CSDA Estimating Class Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

JANUARY 17 CSDA-ST-115 Certification Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

JANUARY 18-19

MARCH 16-18

Diamond Cutting: Sharpen Your Skills Introductory Training

CSDA Convention & Tech Fair

Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

Gran Meliรก Golf Resort Rio Grande, Puerto Rico Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

MAY 18-20 MARCH 7-11

IACDS Annual Convention

CONEXPO-CON/AGG

Hilton Vienna Plaza Vienna, Austria Email: info@iacds.org www.iacds.org

Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 800-867-6060 Email: swisniewski@aem.org www.conexpoconagg.com

JANUARY 17-18 CSDA GPR Certification Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

JANUARY 17-20 World of Concrete Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 972-536-6423 www.worldofconcrete.com

JANUARY 18 CSDA Board Meeting Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

JANUARY 18-19 Concrete Polishing 101 Training Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, NV Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

6 4 | DECEMBER.16

CSDA Spring Meetings Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

MARCH 14-15

JULY 20-23

CSDA Spring Meetings

ASCC Concrete Executive Leadership Forum

Gran Meliรก Golf Resort Rio Grande, Puerto Rico Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

Palmetto Bluff Bluffton, South Carolina Tel: 314-962-0210 Email: mforsythe@ascconline.org www.ascconline.org

MARCH 15-16

SEPTEMBER 14-17

New York Build Expo 2017

ASCC Annual Conference

Javits Center New York, New York Tel: 315-636-4844 Email: info@oliverkinross.com www.newyorkbuildexpo.com

Arizona Grand Resort Phoenix, Arizona Tel: 314-962-0210 Email: mforsythe@ascconline.org www.ascconline.org

Advertising and Readership Circulation 19,000+ minimum, per issue 12,000+ member and prospective member companies made up of contractors, manufacturers, distributors and affiliates

7,000+ general contractors, engineers, architects and government officials who specify cutting, polishing and imaging

Who Reads the Magazine?

Concrete Openings reaches cutting, polishing and imaging contractors as well as specifiers of these services, including engineers, architects, general contractors and governmental agencies. Why waste your message on unnecessary circulation?

Advertising in Concrete Openings guarantees a targeted audience of industry professionals.

READERSHIP BY PROFESSION

Target the Specialized Industry of Concrete Cutting, Polishing and Imaging Advertising in Concrete Openings magazine is the only way to reach the specialty market of cutting, polishing and imaging contractors who work with concrete, asphalt or masonry because it is specifically targeted to this segment of the industry.

How Do You Reach 19,000+ Concrete industry Professionals?

Each issue of Concrete Openings magazine is sent to more than 12,000 operators, equipment manufacturers and suppliers in the concrete cutting, polishing and imaging industry, and more than 7,000 specifiers of these services around the world.

Not a Subscriber?

Get your free subscription today!

Visit www.concreteopenings.com and click “subscribe.”

52%

Readership Per Issue A poll of Concrete Openings subscribers revealed that 66% pass on their copy of the magazine to at least one other person, with almost 25% stating that the magazine is passed on to four or more people each issue.

This translates to an average of four people reading each issue of the magazine for a total readership per year of approximately 60,000.

8% 40%

• Specifiers • Contractors • Manufacturers, Distributors

CSDA Social Media CSDA’s social media pages are packed with all the latest news, updates, photos and videos from the association and Concrete Openings magazine. Look out for exclusive content and become “friends” with others who are looking to network and promote the sawing and drilling industry. Join our growing fan base and stay in touch with the association through your PC, laptop or mobile device. Find direct links to these pages at www.csda.org.

Concrete Openings Website Concrete Openings has its own website.

Advertisers have direct links to their websites placed on our Advertisers page as a complimentary addition to ad placement.

A full page-turning copy of the magazine, including ads, is also available for visitors to read on the website. Visitors to the site can now access our advertisers at the touch of a button. The Concrete Openings website also has banner advertising opportunities available throughout the year.

Visit www.concreteopenings.com for more information.

W WW. C O N C RE TE OPE N IN GS.COM

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 6 5

Advertisers To receive additional information about products advertised in this issue, contact the vendors below.

PAGE

ADVERTISER

PHONE

EMAIL

52

Bitwizard

661-344-7705

edwin@bitwizard.biz

5, 41

Brokk, Inc.

877-276-5548

peter@brokkinc.com

19

Concut, Inc.

253-872-3507

suemayer@concutusa.com

31, 41

CS Unitec, Inc.

203-853-9522

info@csunitec.com

Inside Front Cover, 45

Diamond Products

800-321-5336

jpalmer@diamondproducts.com

25

Diamond Tools Technology

877-345-6388

ddennison@diamondtoolstechnology.com

59

DITEQ Corporation

816-246-5515

jmiller@diteq.com

53

Dixie Diamond Manufacturing

678-296-3747

gwolters@dixiediamond.com

57

Expert Equipment Company

713-797-9886

info@expertequipment.com

43

GelMaxx

619-701-7246

info@gelmaxx.net

17

Geophysical Survey Systems, Inc. (GSSI)

603-893-1109

harmonj@geophysical.com

Inside back cover

Hilti North America

918-872-3079

corrie.brock@hilti.com

34, 35, Outside back cover

Husqvarna Construction Products

913-928-1442

cate.stratemeier@husqvarna.com

2

ICS, Blount Inc.

800-321-1240

marketing@icsdiamondtools.com

27

K2 Diamond

310-539-6116

mike.nelson@k2diamond.com

31

Lissmac Corporation

518-326-9094

sales@lissmac_corporation.com

13

Merit Engineering & Equipment Company

928-771-0575

r.ferguson@meritsaws.com

49

Pentruder, distributed by ICS, Blount Inc.

800-321-1240

terry.martin@blount.com

67

Pullman Ermator

855-736-2869

info@ermatorusa.com

55

Reimann & Georger Corporation (RGC)

716-895-1156

peter.kowalczyk@rgcproducts.com

54

Rental Tools Online

866-952-8665

ken@nationaltoolleasing.com

51

Vacuworx

918-259-3050

paulab@vacuworx.com

31

Vancouver Concrete Cutting & Coring, Inc 604-838-9997

david@vancouverconcretecutting.com

23

VBelt Global Supply

heath.f@vbeltsupply.com

888-291-5450

Cutter’s Corner TEXAS TERRITORY OPENING Pullman Ermator is a manufacturer of high quality dust extraction equipment for the construction, restoration and abatement industries. Specializing in HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers. Due to our fast growing industry and the fantastic job our current representatives are doing, we need to expand our sales team. The Territory Manager is responsible for generating and developing new sales through cold calling to increase sales in territory, while managing existing distributor accounts. Daily meetings and presentations of products to end users and distributors. Performing all standard require sales duties, call reports, expense reports, etc. Training customers on products. Attending trade shows to develop new leads. Covering Texas and surrounding states.

Please contact Lyndon Kelsey, North American Sales Manager, at lkelsey@ermatorusa.com or 813-335-4046.

6 6 | DECEMBER.16

This classified section is for use by anyone who wants to sell or buy used equipment, post help wanted ads or advertise business opportunities. Anyone interested in placing ads should send copy to Concrete Openings Classifieds, 100 2nd Ave S, Ste 402N St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Copy can also be faxed to 727-577-5012 or emailed to rhitchen@ concreteopenings.com. Cost: $100 for 10 lines for members; $200 for non-members. Additional lines $10 each. Copy must be in the CSDA office no later than the first day of the month preceding publication

January 17-20, 2017

Director’s Dialogue

Concrete Openings Turns 100….Issues!

PATRICK O’BRIEN Executive Director

C

oncrete Openings is celebrating its 100th issue with this December publication!

Concrete Openings the magazine actually had its start as a four-page black and white newsletter sent only to 200 members a few times each year. In one of the first Board meetings after joining CSDA from GE Superabrasives, I submitted a proposal to the Board to expand the newsletter into a magazine with advertisements for distribution to the construction industry. The proposal was not just a random idea, but was born from a research study conducted by the GE Construction Market Development division. The study identified an unserved niche for the concrete cutting industry, and CSDA was well suited to fill this opportunity.

CSDA had been struggling financially and one of my first tasks as Executive Director was to develop programs to generate new revenue. The initial Concrete Openings proposal made to the Board in 1992 offered an alternative to the newsletter and to generate revenue, the magazine would offer paid advertising. The estimated annual revenue was $16,000. The plan was to not only send the magazine to members, but also to architects, engineers, general contractors and government officials, promoting the cutting services offered by CSDA contractor members.

While I thought the proposal was an excellent opportunity to market CSDA to the construction industry, the Board was a bit hesitant to send CSDA’s proposed magazine outside of the association, not wanting to share valuable information. I disagreed with this reasoning, but my attempts to convince the Board to proceed were not working. Fortune intervened as Board member Rick Norland showed a professional engineer magazine that ASME, an association he was a member of, had developed. It was a very professional publication, and the engineer was impressed by the quality of the magazine. This helped convince the Board to proceed with Concrete Openings. Thanks Rick!

6 8 | DECEMBER.16

While the Board had decided CSDA would proceed with the magazine, they only wanted it sent to members. This was disappointing, and in my marketing view not the right approach.

However, while initially sent to members and prospects, successive proposals increased the circulation of future issues to included specifiers.

Today, Concrete Openings has an international quarterly circulation of over 19,000 with 70,000 readers. It has become the voice of the cutting industry, as well as a valuable addition to the concrete imaging and polishing industries, and generates over $250,000 annually for the association. That’s a long way from $16,000! In addition CSDA created a separate website for the magazine, www.concreteopenings.com, where readers can read current and archived job stories and technical, business and safety articles.

The revenue and readership are important, but there is more to Concrete Openings magazine. From the beginning, the goal was to make it the most professional publication in the industry. We receive many comments about the quality of the publication. It is very gratifying to see contractor members in the booth at the World of Concrete proudly showing their association magazine to prospects. It helps to increase the professionalism of the industry and make contractors proud of their association and their work. In my mind, this is perhaps the greatest achievement of Concrete Openings.

The success of Concrete Openings would not have been possible were it not for the financial support from the manufacturers who have sustained the publication from day one and continue to do so. In addition, the job stories from contractors have played an equally essential role in this success. My personal thanks to both the contractors and the manufacturers for helping to make Concrete Openings the success it is today.

Congratulations CSDA and Concrete Openings!

Diamond coring tool DD 250

THE ONE TO GET IT DONE.

From small anchor holes to large diameter holes in concrete with heavy rebar, the new Hilti DD 250 offers fast drilling speed and more than enough torque to get the job done.

With four gears instead of three, this tool helps ensure you are at the right speed and torque. The DD 250 has the widest application and drilling range with one motor, from 1/2” to 18”. The DD 250’s digital interface will guide you from start to finish. Utilize our innovative hole starting mode for smoother starts and use the digital display run time tracker to record productivity to keep you on the job. This tool is the one to get it done.

1-800-879-8000 1-800-363-4459 www.us.hilti.com • www.hilti.ca

Hilti. Outperform. Outlast.

WE HAVE A DIAMOND TOOL FOR THAT Husqvarna Construction Products is one of the world’s leading developers and manufacturers of diamond tools for cutting and drilling in concrete and other construction materials. We supply millions of diamond tools – saw blades, drill bits, wires and grinding/polishing tools – to professional contractors and craftsmen all over the world.

No matter if you are cutting through hard materials like concrete or soft materials like asphalt, we have a diamond tool developed for your application. Matching the right diamond tool to the right machine delivers efficency. It’s as simple as that.

To learn more, visit our booth #O30166 at World of Concrete or request a demonstration from the contact page on our website, www.husqvarnacp.com/call customer service at 800-845-1312. facebook.com/husqvarnaconstruction youtube.com/husqvarnaCP HusqvarnaCP_Americas facebook.com/husqvarnaconstruction youtube.com/husqvarnaCP HusqvarnaCP_Americas 17400 West 119th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66061 • T 800-288-5040 • F 800-825-0028 • www.husqvarnacp.com 17400 West 119th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66061 • T 800-288-5040 • F 800-825-0028 • www.husqvarnacp.com 2077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 4V6 • T 800-461-9589 • F 800-825-0028 • www.husqvarnacp.ca 2077 • North Ontario P1B 4V6 • T 800-461-9589 • www.husqvarnacp.ca Copyright ©Bond 2016 Street Husqvarna ABBay, (publ.).

All rights reserved.

Husqvarna is• aF 800-825-0028 registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).

Copyright © 2016 Husqvarna AB (publ.). All rights reserved. Husqvarna is a registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).