Concrete Openings March 2017

Page 1

MARCH 2017

Port Manatee Berth Replacement

New Wharf Seawall Constructed Following Extensive Cutting Work

Cutting the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway Wire Saw Corrects Bridge Oversight Collapsed Rail Bridge Core Drilled

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

T

his is my last Presidents Page—the last two years serving as the association’s president have gone by in a flash. It has truly been an honor to take the role of CSDA President. I consider this to be one of the highlights of my professional career and it has been a fulfilling life experience. I leave you in the capable hands of incoming president Jack Sondergard, an experienced cutting contractor and a dedicated member of the association. Like me, Jack will be surrounded by excellent Officers and a Board made up of knowledgeable professionals working to move the industry forward. I’m very optimistic about the future of CSDA. The newly-elected U.S. President and his administration are very bullish on infrastructure and putting people to work, which may lead to a boom in the construction industry for the coming years. We hope opportunities will be many and the potential growth for CSDA and its members is great. We have tremendous potential in the polishing industry—the association’s Polishing Committee is loaded with experienced professionals that are rewriting our game-changing Standard ST-115 Measuring Concrete Micro Surface Texture, which could put CSDA in a very prominent position within that industry. The potential benefits are obvious, with more polishing members and new training classes. The same can be said for the ground penetrating radar (GPR) market. Following the success of the association’s inaugural GPR Certification course at the World of Concrete, it is clear there is incredible potential in this area.

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

Training itself has limitless potential and, with some work, CSDA could become the association that everyone looks to for training and education. Within the association we have the perfect mix of dedicated people and the support of leading companies from the industry. This combination can help continue the evolution of CSDA and encourage the industry to strive for improvement, wherever possible. These are just a few of the opportunities that I see, and I’m sure the readership of this publication can identify many more. With this in mind, please consider getting actively involved with CSDA and presenting your ideas. The association has a bright future and it’s up to all of us to make our industry better. There are no doubt some great ideas out there, but sitting on the sideline and not communicating won’t bring positive change. New faces and ideas are always welcomed. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Pat, Erin and the CSDA staff for all their help during my time as president of the association. Also, thank you to the Officers, Board members, committee chairs and their members for all the time they put in and the work they do for CSDA. Last but not least, the CSDA membership—thank you all for making the last two years an incredibly rewarding time in my life. My final though is how fortunate I have been to meet so many wonderful people through CSDA. Many have become good friends who I will have for the rest of my life. See you at the next CSDA meeting.

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


Get More Done

Make more money Gas

Hydraulic

Pneumatic

CALL TO ORDER: 800.321.1240 EMAIL: orders@icsdiamondtools.com k ,&6 _ %ORXQW ,QF 3ULFLQJ DQG VSHFLÇŒFDWLRQV VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH

icsdiamondtools.com


CSDA OFFICERS

CONCRETE CASES

President, Kevin Baron Western Saw, Inc. kevinb@westernsaw.com Vice President, Jack Sondergard Central Concrete Cutting, Inc. Jacksondergard@sprynet.com

Port Manatee Berth Replacement

Secretary/Treasurer, Mike Orzechowski DITEQ Corporation mikeo@diteq.com

6

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) 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

Brooklyn—Queens Expressway

16

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

New Wharf and Seawall Constructed Following Extensive Cutting Work

Diamond Cutter Provides Access for Critical Inspections of Aging Roadway

The Main Men

24

Bridge Design Oversight Corrected by Wire Sawing Professionals

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

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

Back on Track

34

Core Drilling Specialist Strengthens Collapsed Rail Bridge

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 26, Number 1 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

C O N T E N T S 12

Concrete Openings Awards

Concrete Cutters Celebrated at Las Vegas Awards Ceremony

20 Safety Counts

Getting More Bang for Your Buck with Toolbox Talks

32

World of Concrete 2017

Safety a Core Feature of the Show

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 Dan Matesic Joseph Neos John Robinson Lionel Whittemore 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.

38 Tech Talk

Advancements in Diamond Chain— Get the Most from Your Concrete Chain Saw

40 Core Health

Preventing and Treating Strains and Sprains

42 Polished Perspective Dealing with Delaminations

44 Industry Bits 52 Certification 54 Membership 56 Calendar 60 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.

Cover: Port Manatee in Tampa Bay, Florida

4 | MARCH .17

32


Uncommon Bonds

Dixie Diamond Manufacturing, Inc. and Concut Diamond Products have selected the new logo presented in this advertisement. We look forward to providing quality diamond tools to all our customers with exceptional customer service. Our new company DDM Concut Diamond Tools is the largest American owned diamond tool manufacturer in North America. — Garrett and Greg Wolters, CEO and President

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 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.

Dixie Diamond...There’s Nothing Common About Us.

1.800.654.7224 | dixiediamond.com


Concrete Cases

Port Manatee Berth Replacement New Wharf and Seawall Constructed Following Extensive Cutting Work

A

specialty concrete sawing and drilling contractor was recently called to Port Manatee on the southeastern edge of Tampa Bay, Florida, to cut and remove a 600-foot-long, 44-foot-wide section of a 3-foot-thick concrete wharf and seawall. A new, more robust design was to be installed in front and over a portion of the old bulkhead, so the cutting work had to be clean and precise.

Orion Marine Group was contracted by the Manatee County Port Authority for the replacement of Berth 9 at Port Manatee, the closest U.S. deepwater seaport to the Panama Canal. The port generates more than $2.3 billion in annual economic impact for the local community, while supporting more than 24,000 jobs. Each of the port’s 10 berths are maintained at 40-foot design draft at mean low water and can accommodate large Panamax ships.

Slab saws were used to make 24-inch-deep cuts in the berthing structure. 6 | MARCH .17


The preservation of the berthing area’s structural integrity and the protection of large-diameter fuel lines were critical to the job. Large breakers or hoe-rams were specifically prohibited for use on the existing 4.5-foot bulkhead cap area and around several areas where 8- and 10-inch-diameter fuel lines ran under the slab. Therefore, methods with low percussion and minimal debris were required. The general contractor enlisted the help of an experienced contractor that had the right tools for the job. CSDA member Accu-Cut Concrete Services, Inc. of Clearwater, Florida, was contracted by Orion Marine Group to cut the entire slab into sections weighing roughly 12 tons, which would then be lifted out with a crane and trucked to a nearby crushing facility for recycling. The sawing and drilling contractor was also tasked with core drilling 74 holes 6 inches in diameter on a 2-degree angle through the existing bulkhead wall, which was approximately 4.5 feet thick with an embedded 0.625-inch-thick steel sheet pile. These holes were for new 3.5-inchdiameter tie rods, which would pass through and connect the new bulkhead to a new land side grade beam. “The project was bid in 2015, but we were awarded the contract in January 2016 and sawing was to begin on the 3-foot-thick slab the following month,” explained John Robinson, owner of Accu-Cut. “Our plan was to saw the slab to 24 inches deep using our standard diesel slab saws, then cut the remaining 12 inches with our customfabricated Bobcat saw using 72- and 91-inch-diameter blades.” Orion Marine employed three large track-hoes equipped with hydraulic breakers for approximately half of the berth’s slab area while diamond saw cutting techniques were used on the other half, where the breakers could not be used. As the cutting team would be working on or near water, all personnel wore life jackets as part of their standard PPE. Operators began creating the initial 24-inch-deep cuts in the berthing structure’s slab using the company’s diesel-powered slab saws from Diamond Products. Then the custom Bobcat saw was set up to cut the final 12 inches. However, this machine had only a 65-horsepower engine powering the blade. While this amount of power had worked fine for the contractor on jobs with narrow plunge cuts for bridge diaphragms [read “Bayway to Go” from our December

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

Cut sections of concrete weighed approximately 12 tons.

The contractor completed 3,600 square feet of wire sawing.

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


Concrete Cases

continued

Holes had to be 2 degrees from horizontal and operators had to drill through 0.625-inch-thick steel sheet pile.

8 | MARCH .17


.................... ...... .... .... .

.....

..................... .. . .

......

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

..................... .. . . ...... . . . ..

. . ..

2013 issue], it was not powerful enough for continuous sawing at a depth of 3 feet. Robinson decided to upgrade to a Chevrolet 350-cubic inch, 290-horsepower V8 engine to power the blade. This upgrade, together with a tight time frame to put it all together, presented Accu-Cut with many new challenges like extra weight, sufficient cooling and power transmission from the engine to the blade shaft. Once the Bobcat saw was ready and sawing commenced, the contractor found many areas of the slab with voids under it as deep as 6 to 8 inches. When the saw cut through these areas, the 24-ton sections created would drop causing the blade to jam. This would also cause belts to break or strip segments off the blade, so the order of cuts was planned very carefully to leave some areas with small amounts of uncut concrete to avoid these issues. In total, Accu-Cut completed over 4,000 linear feet of slab sawing with the Bobcat saw. As sections of the slab were removed, a cut was made 4.5 feet from the water-side facia where the slab was 3 feet thick. This left an area that encapsulated the existing sheet piles and extended 11 feet downward on the water side. The remaining 4.5-footwide cap section had to be cut horizontally 18 inches lower, through the 4.5-foot cross section that contained the 0.625-inch-thick sheet pile. The sheet pile ran the entire length of the berth—640 feet. With all slab sawing work complete, operators began core drilling the 74 tie-back or tie-rod holes. These were 6-inch-diameter holes drilled through the existing seawall from the water side, with operators working from a small floating steel barge. The holes had to be 2 degrees from horizontal to allow the 3.5-inch-diameter tie-rods to align with the proper connection location on the grade beam. At the point where the bits penetrated the wall, thicknesses would vary from 2.5 to 4.5 feet and operators would drill through the 0.625-inch steel sheet pile in every hole. In some cases, the core bit had to cut through the interlocking joint in the steel sheet pile. Accu-Cut used Weka DK52 and DK42 480-volt core drill motors from Diamond Products fitted with custom-length core bits and running on custom rigs. When drilling near the salt water, operators had to take extra care and be sure all ground fault and Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupters were in use and working properly.

..

........ ............ .. . .

EQUIPMENT 866-688-1032 DIAMOND TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

All that remained was the 4.5-foot-wide, 648-foot-long seawall cap, which was cut by wire saw. Accu-Cut had to set up horizontal cuts 18 inches lower to allow the new slab and cap to be constructed over it. The contractor utilized two modified Hydrostress SKB wire saws to cut 20-foot-long, 4.5-footwide sections. Wire sawing techniques were also used around several concrete vault boxes to separate them from the old slab.

These vaults were enclosures that housed connections used by ships to access fuel from pipes under the slab. It was important that these vaults and the pipes going to them were not disturbed or damaged in any way. This resulted in 3,600 square feet of wire sawing work on the berthing structure. Once the slab was removed, the terrain underneath was difficult for workers to traverse. The wet mud was, in places,

C O N C R ET E O PEN I N G S | 9


Concrete Cases

continued

Wire sawing techniques were used along the concrete seawall cap.

deeper than the rubber boot worn by the workers. This was compounded by the stormy weather conditions associated with Florida summers, where almost daily afternoon thunderstorms are the norm. In addition, two hurricanes moved close to the Tampa Bay area in the summer of 2016. Although Accu-Cut suffered no damage, the contractor did lose time preparing for the hurricanes—moving and securing equipment. Despite some challenges to overcome at the beginning the project, Accu-Cut successfully completed all specified cutting tasks and was been awarded extra work on this project. “We have a long standing relationship with Orion Marine Group and the company was confident of our abilities to get this job done to everyone’s satisfaction. Where there have been some unique situations or uncommon specifications, we have worked with innovation and determination to come up with solutions,” concluded Robinson. Work on the replacement of Berth 9 at Port Manatee began in February 2016 and Accu-Cut finished its portion of work eight months later. All demolition has been completed and new concrete has been placed for the construction of the new structure. It is anticipated the new Berth 9 will be open to vessels in summer 2017.

COMPANY PROFILE Accu-Cut Concrete Services, Inc. has been a CSDA member for 15 years and was established in 1990. The company is based in Clearwater, Florida, and services the southeastern U.S. and the Caribbean. Accu-Cut Concrete Services, Inc. has five trucks, 10 employees and offers the concrete cutting services of flat sawing, core drilling, wall sawing, wire sawing, hand sawing and grinding. Accu-Cut is a CSDA Certified Operator company.

RESOURCES General Contractor: Orion Marine Construction Sawing and Drilling Contractor: Accu-Cut Concrete Services, Inc. Clearwater, Florida Phone: 727-787-4843 Email: accucut@tampabay.rr.com

METHODS USED: Core Drilling, Wire Sawing, Flat Sawing REVIEW AND COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE AT: WWW.CONCRETEOPENINGS.COM

10 | MARCH .17


The result of 40 years of innovation in demolition. Imagine what we can accomplish in the next 40.

Relentless Innovation Since 1976. In 1976 we promised to provide ultimate demolition power for the most challenging jobs on earth. 40 years’ worth of demolition robots later, we have kept that promise. By constantly listening to our users from around the world and responding with innovative solutions, we are able to advance the state of the art

year after year. Introducing our newest addition: The Brokk 120 Diesel – The ultimate compact, one-ton diesel-powered demolition robot. A remote-controlled demolition machine that is completely ’wireless’ and can go where nothing else can go.

Discover a more powerful future at www.brokk.com.

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 | 1 1

Brokk Inc. | Monroe WA | 1-360-794-1277 | info@brokkinc.com | www.brokk.com


Awards Concrete Cutters Celebrated at Las Vegas Awards Ceremony The 4th Annual Concrete Openings Awards ceremony was held during January’s World of Concrete international trade show and exhibition at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The awards recognize some of the most innovative and challenging projects completed by CSDA contractors in 2016. A crowd of show attendees and members of the industry media gathered around the association’s exhibit booth as CSDA Executive Director Patrick O’Brien led the proceedings. First held at World of Concrete 2013, the ceremony showcases best projects covered in CSDA’s official magazine as chosen by a panel of judges, and acknowledges the concrete cutting, polishing, GPR imaging or selective demolition contractors who performed the work.

Job stories featured in the magazine’s four quarterly issues from 2016 were split into four categories and put before the panel. Judges scored each job based on: • Pre-planning • Use of innovation • Degree of difficulty • Quality requirements The project with the highest score in each category was declared the winner. Display boards of the winning projects were featured at the CSDA exhibit booth during the four-day World of Concrete exhibition, and a special commemorative book was produced for the winners and those in attendance. During the ceremony, O’Brien thanked all the contractors who submitted their projects for publication and congratulated the winning companies. These winning projects are just some of the complex, painstaking jobs being done by CSDA contractors everyday on jobsites around the U.S. and beyond. The association encourages all concrete cutting, breaking, polishing and imaging members to submit their best job stories for publication in Concrete Openings, and to consider entry to this year’s awards. Look out for more information about the Concrete Openings 2017 Awards later in the year. To read any, or all, of these job stories in full, scan the QR Codes next to each winner or find them on www.concreteopenings.com. For more information about the winning projects, the awards or about CSDA, call 727-577-5004 or email rhitchen@concreteopenings.com.

And the winners are….

12 | MARCH .17


Kellie Vazquez of Holes Incorporated with Patrick O’Brien.

Company: Location: Category:

Holes Incorporated Houston, Texas Building Construction

The contractor was tasked with making eight 11-­foot-­tall by 8-­foot-­wide window openings as part of a major building renovation for Houston’s largest daily newspaper. A series of new conference rooms had been planned for a section of the four-story building, so the inclusion of two openings per floor provided the conference rooms with natural light and a view of the city’s skyline. Using wall sawing and core drilling techniques with diamond tools, the contractor created a series of 8-foot-wide, 10-inch-tall relief sections before cutting the main 8-foot-wide, 10-foot-tall concrete panels for removal by crane. Eight concrete sections, each weighing over 13,000 pounds, were cut and removed from the building. Operators completed 368 feet of wall sawing and core drilled 46 holes up to 10 inches in diameters through the 12-­inch-­thick concrete walls of the Houston Chronicle building.

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

CSDA Board member Tim Beckman received the award on behalf of Precision Concrete Cutting of Carey.

Company: Location: Category:

Precision Concrete Cutting of Carey Carey, Ohio Industrial Renovation

This winning company was contracted to perform around 1,100 feet of slab saw milling, including sections of radial cuts, to help refurbish and reinforce the factory floor of a plastics manufacturing facility. The factory owners found that an increased volume of material carts being moved around the factory floor had caused grooves to form in the concrete. This had led to navigation problems with the carts and a reduced amount of control over their movements. The contractor was tasked with milling 1,026 feet of 0.25-inch-deep and 4-inch-wide slots in the concrete floor slab, which formed two tracks that ran parallel around the factory floor spaced 50 inches apart. Lengths of 4-inch-wide, 0.25-inch-thick steel bearing plates were installed in the slots to reinforce the floor. Only two days were allocated to complete the refurbishment. A 65-horsepower slab saw was fitted with 18 blades with spacers on a modified shaft to perform 35 feet of radial milling work. By attaching a pivot point to the saw, operators were able to achieve the desired series of radial cuts, some measuring up to 11 feet in length.

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


Concrete Openings Awards

continued

Stuart Hooten of J.P. Hogan Coring & Sawing Corp.

Company: Location: Category:

JP Hogan Coring & Sawing Corp Staten Island, New York Infrastructure Renovation

Finlay Crocker of Core Cut Ltd.

Company: Location: Category:

Core Cut Ltd Scotland, United Kingdom Roads, Bridges & Airports

®

In the case of this year’s Infrastructure Renovation Award winner, the challenge was to breach a 54-inch-thick reinforced concrete slurry wall 25 feet below the ground. The opening created had to be angled and accommodate a 72-inch-diameter supply line that was to be attached to the shaft of a new water siphon in Brooklyn, New York. The contractor had a custom 79-inchdiameter, 5-foot-long bit fabricated for the job. Using a hydraulic 45.6 CIR motor, the contractor core drilled at a 15-degree compound angle to a depth of 44 inches. The 54-inch-long concrete core was extracted by crane and weighed approximately 23,000 pounds.

14 | MARCH .17

The winner of this category took the lead role in the removal of 10,000 tons of concrete in the tunnel of a major rail station in Scotland, U.K., and is only the second international Concrete Openings award winner. 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 contractor’s work consisted of core drilling almost 8,500 holes measuring over 4 inches in diameter and 20 inches deep, over 9,000 feet of track saw cutting, almost 30,000 feet of longitudinal and transverse slab sawing, plus the use of robotic demolition equipment to break and remove sections. 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.


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 | 1 5


Concrete Cases

BROOKLYN—QUEENS EXPRESSWAY DIAMOND CUTTER PROVIDES ACCESS FOR CRITICAL INSPECTIONS OF AGING ROADWAY

16 | MARCH .17


A

general contractor in New York was recently tasked with the in-depth inspection of the Brooklyn—Queens Expressway’s (BQE) triple cantilever bridge as part of a $1.7billion reconstruction project. The inspections specified a need for the creation of 3-foot-wide by 2-foot-tall access openings and door installations in the bridge structure, so the search began for a specialty sawing and drilling contractor to perform the work. The New York City Department of Transportation’s BQE Atlantic to Sands Project is part of the City’s 10-year plan to improve the 0.4-mile-long reinforced concrete, multi-level structure. The planned construction will provide this section of roadway with a new deck, new ramps, new drainage and lighting with fewer joints and geometry improvements to create an overall safer drive for the 140,000+ commuters who use it each day. Eastern Cutting Corp., a CSDA member based in The Bronx, New York, was chosen by general contractor Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. to saw cut openings in the exterior stone-facing wall of the bridge, which would allow access to enclosed areas for engineers to inspect existing conditions prior to the reconstruction process. The roadway, built almost 70 years ago, had already been deemed to be in desperate need of repair with some suggestions it was 10 years past its originally-intended lifespan. In order to avoid lengthy—and expensive— shutdowns in the coming years to carry out emergency repairs, the BQE Atlantic to Sands Project was devised. “I believe we were selected for this particular project based on our past performance in and around New York City’s many high-profile construction projects,” explained Joseph Neos, owner of Eastern Cutting Corp. “The building of relationships with job specifiers and general contractors has proven to be the most vital factor in securing work on projects like the BQE.”

Above: Stone facings were cut and removed so that 3-foot-wide by 2-foot-tall openings could be created using stitch drilling techniques. Below: Larger access holes, some measuring 24 inches in diameter, were core drilled.

Left: The contractor was tasked with creating openings in the expressway for structural inspections.

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 | 1 7


Concrete Cases

continued

Wall thicknesses in the bridge structure range from 30 to 46 inches.

Between July and September 2016, operators from Eastern Cutting Corp. cut 3-foot by 2-foot openings into the wall at 38 locations along a stretch of the BQE from Atlantic Avenue to Sands Street. Wall thicknesses ranged from 30 to 46 inches deep at the majority of locations. Saw cutting and core drilling techniques with diamond tools were essential because of the thickness of the reinforced walls and, more importantly, the condition of the structure. The threat of damaging the structure with high-impact jackhammers meant a more precise method was sought. Wall sawing and core drilling equipment could achieve the specified depths without overcutting the reinforced, load-bearing walls, and the removal of stone and concrete was to be kept to a minimum. “We had to educate the general contractor on the benefits of using diamond tools and convince them we had the most suitable method. Referencing past jobs, where we had used concrete chain saws, ring saws and stitch drilling techniques, paved the way for us to win the work. Site visits and a means and methods breakdown, along with an aggressive schedule, got us the job,� said Neos.

18 | MARCH .17

The thickness of the walls proved to be the biggest challenge for the cutting contractor. Single-sided access ruled out conventional wire sawing methods. Help and suggestions were provided via the CSDA Forum for Professionals Facebook group, where other members gave advice that ultimately led Eastern Cutting Corp. to use stitch drilling and chain sawing techniques. Another major obstacle was time. A limited window of time was granted for work during each day or night. Lane closures for certain sawing locations were restricted to four or five hours per shift. Operators held nightly meetings to address cutting sequences prior to commencing work, which ensured that time on-site was being used as effectively as possible. To create the access openings, operators first cut through the 12-inch-thick stone facing that covered the concrete structure. Ring saws supplied by Husqvarna Construction Products and an 890F4 ICS chain saw, powered by hydraulic power packs from Reimann & Georger Corporation, were employed to cut a 4-foot by 3-foot area, after which the facing was removed to reveal the concrete wall behind. From this point, DD200 and DD350 core drills from Hilti were used to perform stitch drilling techniques to make the specified 3-foot by 2-foot access openings. Approximately 30 holes measuring 4 inches in diameter were drilled to depths between 30 and 26 inches deep to create a rectangle-shaped piece for removal. Time was taken to securely mount the core drill rig to the vertical structure for each horizontal hole and it took approximately 15 hours to complete one set of holes. The contractor went on to complete 38 of these openings in total. All work was performed in streets and highways, which came with safety concerns. Temporary lane closures were initiated, but often the width of the remaining roadway was insufficient to allow for a traffic lane, bicycle lane and the existing parking lane. A work zone traffic control plan was implemented to allow operators to safely work. In addition to the access openings via the exterior stone facing, Eastern Cutting Corp. was also tasked with creating a series of interior wall openings within the BQE structures. These openings consisted of making 15 holes 24 inches in diameter through 30-inch-thick concrete walls. Each of these holes took around 50 minutes to complete. As some of this work was done in confined spaces, the contractor provided

Operators cored drilled around 400 holes at 38 different locations.


Eastern Cutting Corp. created 4-inch-diameter cores up to 30 inches long, and completed its work 40 days ahead of schedule.

its own confined space training and all necessary equipment, including ventilation and lighting, to maintain operator safety. Total time allotted for completion of the work was 120 days, but Eastern Cutting Corp. succeeded in finishing all tasks in just 79 days. The contractor created 38 openings, stitch drilled 400 holes, completed 380 linear feet of 12-inch-thick sawing by hand, made 15 interior holes at 24 inches in diameter and created 45 pilot holes 4 inches in diameter. Engineers then conducted several tests on the concrete and discovered that it had badly deteriorated because of cold weather, and that a few more freezing winters would have sped up the damage. There were also many leaky joints found that were causing extra wear and tear on the BQE. As a result of the cutting contractor’s early completion and professional work, additional jobs were awarded and invitations to bid on similar projects were offered. This was extremely satisfying for Neos and his team. “We were very satisfied with our company performance. Our crews worked around the clock without incident and completed the work well under our time frame. From performing test cuts in our shop to actually performing the work at night on a busy expressway under tight time constraints, our crews stepped up to the challenge,” he said. Repairs to the BQE are expected to begin in 2024 and end in 2029, although they could be done between 2021 and 2026 if the state of New York passes legislation to allow the city Department of Transportation to use the same contractor for design and construction.

COMPANY PROFILE Eastern Cutting Corp. originally joined the CSDA membership in 2008 and is based in The Bronx, New York. The company has been in business for nine years, has 25 employees and 10 trucks. Eastern Cutting Corp. offers the services of core drilling, wall sawing, wire sawing, flat sawing, selective demolition and ground penetrating radar.

RESOURCES General Contractor: Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. Sawing and Drilling Contractor: Eastern Cutting Corp. The Bronx, New York Phone: 718-361-6123 Email: joe@easterncutting.com Website: www.easterncutting.com

METHODS USED: Core Drilling, Hand Sawing

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

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


Safety Counts

Getting More Bang for Your Buck with Toolbox Talks By Tim Neubauer

T

oo often, toolbox talks are one-page documents that are read by a first line supervisor in monotone, and end with employees signing the roster and leaving thankful it only lasted five minutes. This can certainly be the case if such talks are held toward the end of the day on Fridays. If this situation sounds all-too familiar, the effectiveness of a company’s toolbox talks should be brought into question! Toolbox talks should be informal discussions with a team, crew or group of people that focus on specific safety issues. Their intent should be to promote safety and facilitate open discussion between workers and management. The federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has no regulatory requirement for conducting toolbox talks. However, some states may have their own rules, such as California OSHA which requires this training “at least every 10 days.” This is a “best practice” and many worksites require toolbox talks be held on a weekly or daily basis. From personal experience, the most effective days and times to schedule toolbox talks are Monday mornings. First, the timing communicates how important these talks are to management. Second, it sets the tone for the work day/work week. Having toolbox talks at the end of the day or week means the message may be lost before the next work day. Holding talks after lunch should also be avoided to lessen the chances of workers losing concentration or falling asleep. Remember, non-verbal communication shows your commitment to the safety process so scheduling toolbox talks late in the week sends a clear message where safety falls on a company’s list of priorities. Recently, bloggers on professional networking websites have stressed to me that toolbox talks should not be a “circus” and, rather, should be focused exercises with an established time frame and agenda. This consideration when selecting the right

20 | MARCH .17

time frame can lead to better motivation and reinforce how much value the company places on safety. In the same vein, selecting a suitable location for a toolbox talk is of great importance to its delivery and overall effectiveness. If workers are uncomfortable, then they are not participating or concentrating fully on the information being presented. Several years ago, I was attending one of these toolbox talks outside and it was well below freezing with a howling wind. The main priority of every worker present was simply not to freeze to death before the foreman stopped talking! Weather conditions should be taken into consideration in advance of any meeting being held, especially when the subject matter has potentially life-saving information. So, after scheduling a structured toolbox talk session at an optimal time of the week, and having taken into account weather conditions and other factors, what should be discussed? Many safety companies and organizations offer some form of toolbox talks for site meetings. Considering the demographic of those reading this article, it is worth mentioning that CSDA has over 100 Toolbox Safety Tips available to its

membership—many of the topics are specific to sawing and drilling. There is also another avenue available to companies, which I will cover here. Do you know how many topics OSHA requires employers to train on? It is a lot. By the way, OSHA recently updated the “Training Requirements in OSHA Standards” publication 2254 (2015). However, toolbox talks are not training, they are discussions. What if we applied active learning strategies to toolbox talks, such as having an employee locate the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a given chemical? What if another employee is asked to find out what the symptoms of exposure are for that chemical and discuss them with the team? Another employee could be asked to explain what first aid is appropriate when dealing with exposure to the chemical, and a final employee discuss proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when handling it. The benefits would be to regularly review hazardous materials, the appropriate PPE required and have a meaningful dialogue with employees about those hazards and how to protect themselves. This concept can be applied to hand and power tools, PPE and many other required topics.


A suggested method for delivery is to have three “micro-topics,” and any wellthought-out ones can end up developing into a case study for discussion. The first microtopic could be a Hazcom or chemical topic, the second related to PPE or tools, and the third and final “sexy” topic. Based on the sample method above, the subject of “silica” can be used as an example. Begin the toolbox talk by selecting an employee to find the SDS book, and have another employee select the correct SDS from the book. At this time, the organizer of the talk could produce several copies of the silica SDS as handouts and ask employees to find the hazards of silica and discuss them. Discussion can then turn to discussing first aid measures and then segue into the second micro topic of PPE. OSHA has training requirements on the use of PPE, so there is an opportunity for employees to take out their PPE, inspect their peers and discuss what to look for when inspecting—limitations, life span and proper wear. The final micro-topic is what I affectionately call the “sexy” topic. This relates to “what are we doing today?” If a company is mobilizing for a project, this final micro-topic can tie it to the new worksite, emergency action planning, etc. If the chosen topic has been well planned out, it will relate to the saw cutting work being done that day and the challenges that may be encountered on that specific job. If there happens to be a news story relating to the technique being used that day, or about a similar company’s work, talk about it! If something happened on the job, talk about it! If it seems interesting, talk about it! Ultimately, whatever topic is chosen for a particular toolbox talk consider this: present the topic, don’t read it. Notes are ok, but talk to the workers and ask them questions. Challenge them. Not everyone can be a presenter. Hundreds of well-intending people crash and burn when it comes to presenting. Think back to a teacher from your past, what they taught is secondary to how they conducted their classes. Set the environment to minimize distractions, don’t rush and chose words carefully. If the workers feel comfortable and unhurried, they will talk. Several years ago, I audited a large government agency on their “monthly safety meetings.” One manager grouped 75 people

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

BECAUSE THE WORLD ISN’T FLAT

MERIT-AWD

THE FIRST STEERABLE AWD SAW ON THE MARKET SUPERIOR CONTROL AND EASE OF OPERATION WHEN CUTTING UPHILL, DOWNHILL, SIDEWAYS ON A GRADE, AND RADIUSES.

Made in the U.S.A.

meritsaw.com 928.771.0575 Copyright © 2017

Looking to

Upgrade? Visit with the experts and get more for your used model.

Not a Subscriber? Call today at 800-621-7856!

Get your free subscription today! Visit www.concreteopenings.com and click “subscribe.”

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


Safety Counts

continued

with 10 managers and had a huge unwieldy dysfunctional “stage show” with two people dominating the whole event with complaints. It was a disaster, and they were proud of it! At a second site, a young manager brought his crew into the break room. He read a real scenario, asked his workers if it could happen at their location and, if so, how could they prevent it. They discussed options, restated the agreed solution and repeated it two more times. It was amazing and he didn’t know he had done it! The manager completed the talk with maximum efficiency and got the task done right away. All too often on today’s worksites, the need to get working and hit targets or deadlines takes priority over educating employees about safety. Toolbox talks are treated as an afterthought—an inconvenient obligation that must be done to “check a box.” By following some of the recommendations here, or implementing some other new and innovative ways to present these talks to employees, companies can produce a team of well-informed workers that are prepared for any number of unexpected situations. This can also have a positive effect on employee morale and efficiency. Get more bang for your buck and utilize toolbox talks properly.

Tim Neubauer is the Safety Director for CSDA member Advance Concrete, LLC based in Garner, North Carolina. He has had safety-related articles published in industry publications for the National Safety Council as well as SEAA Connector magazine, Concrete Construction and ASCC

CSDA Toolbox Safety Tips CSDA has over 100 Toolbox Safety Tips (TSTs) with new topics being added on a regular basis. The TSTs contain valuable information to educate employees, with much of CSDA’s library focused on sawing and drilling practices and related subjects. Furthermore, each TST includes a series of quiz questions to test if an employee has understood and retained the information provided, followed by a sign-off section to return to the employer. TSTs should be an important part of any company’s safety program. They can be used to promote workplace safety and as references in employee safety meetings. TSTs are available as downloadable PDFs in the Members Section of the CSDA website (member login required). If you have a safety or training topic you would like to see addressed in a future Toolbox Safety Tip, contact the CSDA office at 727-577-5004 or email info@csda.org.

publication 7,313x4,625_floor The Voice. Neubauer can be1reached 252-830-2727 or at saw_MC600_2.pdf 21.12.2016at11:13:51 t.neubauer@advance-concrete.com.

CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY

PROFESSIONAL CUTTING

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

LISSMAC Corporation 356 Hudson River Road, Waterford, NY Phone +1 518 326 9094 , sales@lissmac-corporation.com

www.lissmac-usa.com 22 | MARCH .17


Let’s Get to Work

StructureScan

XT

New LineTrac™ XT Accessory LineTrac adds the ability to detect 50/60 AC power present in conduits. A smarter system–the LineTrac XT integrates seamlessly onto the GPR data, providing you with accurate and reliable readings every time.

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

www.geophysical.com • sales@geophysical.com

Take concrete scanning to the next level

Rated at IP 65 - the Mini XT is unbeatably the most rugged handheld GPR system, ready to withstand the jobsite’s toughest conditions. It’s easy to use, employs a 2.7 GHz antenna for superior target resolution and weighs less than 4 lbs.

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 2 3


Concrete Cases

The Main Men Bridge Design Oversight Corrected by Wire Sawing Professionals

24 | MARCH .17


A section of a 12-inch-diameter gas main had been encased in concrete.

A

107-year-old road bridge in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, was demolished in early 2016 after the completion of a $65-million replacement project. The new 1,600-foot-long steel structure had been open to traffic for several months before an oversight in the bridge design was identified and needed immediate attention.

The new multi-girder Hulton Bridge has been built just upstream of the original structure. It has four 11-foot-wide traffic lanes (two in each direction), one 4-foot-wide median, a 4-foot-wide shoulder on each side of the roadway and a 5-foot-wide ADA-compliant sidewalk on the bridge’s southern side. The overall replacement project included realignment and reconstruction of nearby roads, relocation of utilities, drainage, pavement markings and improvements to intersections, lighting, traffic signals, curbs and sidewalks. Furthermore, six buildings on one side of the Allegheny River were demolished to facilitate construction. The entire project, including implosion of the original bridge, was completed in spring 2016 in time for the U.S. Open golf tournament at nearby Oakmont Country Club. Deep within one of the bridge’s diaphragm sections, lengths of a 12-inch-diameter gas main had been encased in thick, reinforced concrete and passed through steel beams as the new construction developed. Unfortunately, the design plans for the structure had overlooked a requirement that the gas main have at least 6 inches of clearance around it for inspections, any potential repairs and to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the concrete during seasonal changes in temperature. The diaphragm had been designed to move with the expansion and contraction of the bridge throughout the year, as these changes would lead to several inches of movement between the diaphragm and the backwall. With only 1 inch of spacing between the gas main and concrete, it was clear that the gas supply would be compromised as this movement progressed.

Copyright©, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, 2017, all rights reserved. Re-printed with permission. 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 | 2 5


Concrete Cases

continued

The contractor used wire sawing techniques to create a 24-inch square, 42-inch-deep “box” around the gas main to meet utility company specifications.

Cut concrete pieces were carefully broken and extracted from around the pipe.

A major concern was that the gas supply would have to be completely shut off in order to cut and remove the entire section of concrete-encased pipe and replace it—a costly exercise. However, a local CSDA member offered a quicker, safer and more costeffective alternative. “When we were first called to review the project, the new bridge had already been built and opened to vehicular traffic with the old bridge demolished,” said Dan Matesic of Matcon Diamond, Inc. in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “During construction, the general contractor followed plans that were later determined to have omitted a requirement for future gas line inspections and repairs. Following consultation with Brayman Construction Corporation, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (DOT) and the gas company, we devised a plan to wire saw and create a 24-inch by 24-inch box around the gas main, which ran through a 42-inchthick concrete encased steel diaphragm section—perpendicularly penetrating through the beam. This work could only have been done using diamond cutting or drilling methods.”

26 | MARCH .17

The general contractor had placed the steel beam portion of the diaphragm, cutting a hole for the gas line to pass through. Next, the gas company moved its existing 12-inch-diameter main from its original position at the old bridge to the new one. Here the main passed through the web portion of the diaphragm to traverse across the underside of the bridge, providing service to the neighboring town. The web of the beam at the gas line location was reinforced with concrete forms and matting before the entire structure, including the gas main, were encased in concrete as per the plans. At this stage the general contractor realized that tolerances around the pipe had not been indicated, nor was possible to gain clarification prior to concrete placement. It was decided that a 0.5-inch-thick bond breaker would be wrapped around the gas main, to provide some spacing between the main and the concrete, and the work continued. Following a post-construction inspection and review of utilities, the gas company raised the issue that the newly replaced gas main did not comply with their inspection requirements for this type of structure. By specification, a 6-inch minimum clearance must be maintained for


any gas main not earth embedded. Furthermore, there was not enough room around the pipe to accommodate seasonal shifts of the bridge structure as temperatures rose and fell. “When we first viewed the site in the summer, the gap between the concrete diaphragm and the adjacent abutment was approximately 3 inches. By December, when it was around 40 degrees colder, the deck had contracted and the gap had increased to approximately 9 inches,” explained Matesic. The gas company, Equitable Gas, and the DOT consistently stressed to Matcon that any type of demolition or sawing activity could not pierce or penetrate its main. Collectively, an agreement was reached to use diamond methods that would only run parallel to the pipe. Additionally, it was understood that while some portion of chipping or breaking would be required, the relief cuts made by the cutting contractor would mitigate a lot of this work. The wire sawing plan was a two-step process. First, four 0.625-inch-diameter holes were core drilled 42 inches deep at marked corner locations around the pipe for wire access, using a motor and

The gas company required a minimum of 6 inches around the pipe for inspections and repairs.

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

bits from Diamond Products. A 20-foot length of diamond wire from K2 Diamond was run from one hole to another, which allowed Matcon to make a series of four pull cuts 24 inches long and 42 inches deep from the backside of the diaphragm section to the front. Each pull cut took around four hours to complete utilizing a hydraulic wire saw from Husqvarna Construction Products. Once the wire sawing was complete, the general contractor employed equipment to incrementally break and extract the cut piece away from the pipe. “From the onset, we were substantially limited by the Department of Transportation’s bridge engineering team regarding the “footprint” of the cutting work. The diaphragm cut was the final load-transitioning piece for the structural beams carrying the new bridge. While provisions had been made to allow the gas line to pass through the structure, the opening we presented had to be minimized to the absolute smallest possible area. Its fabrication had to have negligible structural impact to the bridge while providing adequate inspection capabilities for the gas company and room for

By making four pull cuts with the wire saw, the contractor left a smooth finish while producing minimal vibration around the gas main.

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 2 7


continued

2’7”

Concrete Cases

01

CUT LINES

11 01 13

6’ 01

6” MIN.

DIAPHRAGM

Diagram of the brigade diaphram, with Matcon’s cut lines indicated.

the concrete to expand and contract without compromising the pipe,” explained Matesic. “The gas company did shut off the gas supply and vacate the line during work operations, 14’-1111/16” COMPANY PROFILE but the shut off was limited to the simple turning of a valve.” Further complicating the scenario, the gas main only A CSDA member since 1985, Matcon turned to run parallel with the bridge after it exited the Diamond, Inc. has been in business for 32 diaphragm. Running through the backwall and the diaphragm, years. The company is based in Pittsburgh, it was oriented 10 degrees from perpendicular and Matcon Pennsylvania, employs up to 75 operators quickly recognized this as a potential extraction issue. Wire and laborers and has a fleet of 50 trucks. sawing the piece with the pipe centered on one face would Matcon offers concrete cutting services of have resulted in the pipe being off center on the opposing slab sawing, wall sawing, hand sawing, wire side of the diaphragm. It was therefore decided that the wire sawing, core drilling and joint sealing. access holes be made at compound angles. This ensured RESOURCES that when the cuts were completed, the piece would not only General Contractors: pull from the hole without binding, but also enable extraction Brayman Construction Corporation without any impact to the pipe itself. Due to the nature of this project, the cutting contractor’s Sawing and Drilling Contractor: work was completed on a time and material basis. Matcon’s Matcon Diamond, Inc. overall working time on the project was four 10-hour shifts. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania “We were completely satisfied with the outcome. As the Phone: 412-481-0280 adage, “necessity is the mother of all invention” holds true, Email: matcon@matcondiamond.com the issues presented by this scenario glaringly pointed to one Website: www.matcondiamond.com profession in the construction industry—diamond cutting. METHODS USED: We were proud to have had the opportunity to do this work,” Wire Sawing, Core Drilling concluded Matesic.

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

28 | MARCH .17

BACK WALL

3’10” MIN.

6’6”

10’


IACDS President’s Insight

T

his month, I am attending the CSDA Convention & Tech Fair in Puerto Rico, where I will facilitate a panel discussion about women in the industry. CSDA was looking for somebody outspoken and passionate with strong views—I can’t think why they asked me! Anyone who knows me understands that I am not someone who believes in pushing women into roles within our industry just to check a box. It’s great to see so many women within associations around the world and it is my belief that organizations and companies benefit when they have a mix of men and women on the board. Our drive to bring more people into this industry should continue to look at ways of attracting women—you need only look at those already working in our industry to see what they bring to the table. A recent study concluded that even from an early age, girls and boys begin to form stereotypes and ideas about what they can be and what they can achieve. It’s just a fact that our type of work—especially at operator level—is more likely to attract men. However, just recently I watched in awe as two fit, strong women tore down a stud wall with pick hammers. Not only were they good at it, they looked like they were having a whole lot of fun! Some men and women may not feel cut out for a career as an operator, but there are other disciplines that require top talent—estimators, dispatchers, bid writers and safety officers.

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

JULIE WHITE IACDS President I was definitely treated differently when I first started out. There were certain clients who I just couldn’t go and see because they had a pre-conceived idea of a woman’s role in this industry. Thankfully, I don’t experience that anymore, partly because times have changed and partly because I’ve grown stronger over the years and now know how to deal with those situations. I am not one to suggest that men and women are the same. We’re not, but I think differences in the way we think and work can be a huge asset to the industry. It’s in all of our interests to bring the best people through and make sure future generations are best equipped to meet challenges head on.

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 2 9


INTRODUCING ONE TOUGH SAW THE DEEP CUTTING FS 7000 DL


Husqvarna’s line of large flat saws expands with the brand new FS 7000 DL - a deep cutting flat saw compliant with Tier 4 final emission regulations. The FS 7000 DL can cut up to 25 in (625 mm) deep with a 60 in (1500 mm) blade. Developed as the successor of our popular FS 8400 D, the FS 7000 DL performed as well as the FS 8400 D in side-byside field tests. Request a demo to see it in action. Of course a flat saw can only be as efficient as the diamond blade used. Husqvarna manufacturers blades to cut through hard materials like concrete to soft materials like asphalt. The blade and machine work together seemlessly to deliver efficient solutions for your job. To learn more or to request a demo call 800-845-1312. facebook.com/husqvarnaconstruction youtube.com/husqvarnaCP HusqvarnaCP_Americas www.husqvarnacp.com • www.husqvarnacp.ca Copyright © 2017 Husqvarna AB (publ.). All rights reserved. Husqvarna is a registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).


World of Concrete 2017 Safety a Core Feature of the Show

F

or those who attended this year’s World of Concrete (WOC) in Las Vegas, there was no substitute for what this trade show and exposition offered them. Between January 17th and 20th, close to 51,000 industry professionals made the journey to the Las Vegas Convention Center and were greeted with a show that was packed with ideas and solutions—silica control solutions in particular—to help concrete sawing, drilling, grinding and breaking contractors thrive in what is sure to be a game-changing year. With the implementation deadline of OSHA’s Final Rule on Respirable Crystalline Silica set for June 23rd, 2017, many of the 1,455 exhibitors focused on showcasing new products and accessories designed to help contractors work within the new permissible exposure limits, adhere to the new rule and protect workers from overexposure to silica dust. Tools and Equipment A popular direction for core drill and rotary hammer manufacturers has been to introduce dust shrouds or collars to their product lines. Companies like Bosch and Hilti have integrated dust collars into their corded and battery-powered hand-held rotary hammers, which surround the bit at the drilling face and collect dust as it is being created. For larger core drilling applications where dry drilling is necessary, manufacturers such as Lissmac and Diteq have similar devices that use vacuum force to attach to vertical surfaces and extract dust from core holes. A new water pump has been designed for Hilti cut-off saws.

32 | MARCH .17


Silica—commonly known as Table 1—can easily be achieved. Diamond Products demonstrated its recently-released C16 hand-held electricpowered saw with water feed system and dust port for wet or dry cutting, Merit unveiled its new gas-powered all-wheel-drive flat saw and Husqvarna showed a modified version of its FS 7000 D flat saw with a longer base plate. Away from sawing and drilling equipment, Brokk had its new 110 electric-powered demolition robot on display at the show along with an Aquajet hydrodemolition machine the company will now distribute in the U.S. Elsewhere, GSSI, Inc. exhibited its new LineTrac XT add-on for the StructureScan Mini XT for enhanced ground penetrating radar (GPR) capabilities, while CentralPoint Solutions gave attendees a look at the company’s new CenPoint Portal management tool.

Association Training and Events

The inaugural CSDA GPR Certification Course.

For manufacturers of hand-held concrete saws, the challenge has been to incorporate dust control and collection features into what is meant to be an easilyportable piece of dry cutting equipment. The Edge saw, available later this year from Australian company Enviro Chasing, uses a combination of water and a vacuum system to deal with silica dust. The slurry formed within the blade guard is removed through a vacuum hose and into a barrel. Along the way, the hose attaches to the muffler outlet and the Bosch demostrated its dust control systems. exhaust fumes are moved down the same hose and away from the operator. Hilti has come up a water pump system that can be fitted retrospectively to its existing range of gas-powered cut-off saws to create a wet cutting environment. This system will also be available later in 2017. In terms of specialized HEPA dust extractions systems at WOC, the big news was Husqvarna Construction Products’ acquisition of Pullman Ermator. Both companies exhibited gasand propane-powered industrial vacuums at their booths and Husqvarna intends to rebrand and release new units through the year. Of course, for many concrete sawing and drilling equipment manufacturers the introduction of water to the work area is nothing new, and compliance with OSHA’s Specified Exposure Control Methods When Working with Materials Containing Crystalline Husqvarna’s WSC 40 chain saw attachment.

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

CSDA scheduled a record-setting five training courses at WOC 2017, marking the highest number of training courses offered by the association at a single event. The latest addition to CSDA’s course schedule at WOC was specifically designed for GPR technicians and had 16 registered students. The two-day GPR Certification course tested students on GPR theory, proper mark out procedures, the limitations of GPR and the application of advanced locating techniques. CSDA aims to set the standard for educating and certifying the proficiency of GPR technicians with this new course, which is sure to be included in the association’s WOC 2018 schedule.

Rita Ferguson (left) and Sarah Marshall (second from right) of Merit with the raffle winner.

Meanwhile, at the CSDA exhibit booth, excitement built each day as the association held a series of raffle drawings for some impressive prizes. A special thanks is given to those companies that donated generously for the drawings. The Winners were as follows: Prize: Merit Engineering & Equipment Co. M100 slab saw Austin Pierce, Premiere Home & Building, North Dakota Prize: Pullman Ermator S26 HEPA vacuum Henk Dykhouse, Diamond Drilling & Sawing, Colorado Prize: Taylormade M1 golf driver (donated by Western Saw, Inc.) Mark Rule, Die Hard Ramirez Group, California

Next Year’s Show The 44th World of Concrete will be held January 23-26, 2018 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Look out for discounted attendee registration, courtesy of CSDA*, in the September and December issues of Concrete Openings. *Some restrictions may apply.

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


Concrete Cases

Back on Track Core Drilling Specialist Strengthens Collapsed Rail Bridge

34 | MARCH .17


A

skilled concrete cutting contractor worked under extreme pressure to get train services in England back on track after the side of a railway bridge collapsed onto an important rail route between London and the East Midlands region of the country. By core drilling a series of 14 horizontal openings in the bridge up to 7 meters deep (23 feet) at a 15-degree angle, the contractor provided a way for engineers to install critical strengthening materials in the 3- and 4-inch-diameter holes.

The British East Coast Main Line Opened in 1850, the East Coast Main Line (ECML) is a 393-mile long railway link between London, England and Edinburgh, Scotland. The route forms a key artery on the eastern side of Great Britain. It links London, the South East and East Anglia, with Yorkshire, the North East Regions and Scotland, carrying a large volume of commuter and freight traffic. With most of the electrified line rated for 125 mph operation, the ECML was the fastest main line in Britain until the opening of The Channel Tunnel Rail Link in 2007—the line between London and the Channel Tunnel that runs under the English Channel to France.

Operatives from CSDA member D-Drill Master Drillers Ltd. in Coventry, England were called in after one side of the Grove Lane Bridge collapsed at Barrow upon Soar Railway Station, near the city of Loughborough, and had to work against the clock to get the bridge reopened. The bridge needed strengthening to prevent it from collapsing further on to the train line below and time was of the essence. Following reports from local residents that one side of the bridge had been sinking for several years, the crossing was closed the night of August 1, 2016 while inspectors checked for dips in the road surface that ran over the bridge. A few hours later, in the early hours of August 2, the bridge partially collapsed, causing debris to fall and obstruct the rail track below. This railway, the Midland Main Line, is a key link for commuters and a vital supply route, as it connects to the East Coast Main Line—a major part of the country’s rail infrastructure (see sidebar). Staff from D-Drill’s Sheffield and Coventry offices were contacted by general contractor AMCO, working on behalf of Network Rail, to use diamond drilling for the insertion of anchor bars through the 7-meter-wide (23-foot) bridge—but that followed an extensive search to find a particular mining barrel to complete the task. Stainless steel mining barrel casings were specified by Network Rail, which were to be left in place once the holes were drilled for the correct installation of strengthening materials. This was because the makeup of the bridge foundation was unknown, but thought to be mudstone—a soft shale-type rock that would close up any holes created. Dave Platts, branch manager for D-Drill’s Sheffield office, explained, “We were required to use diamond tools to drill 6.5-meter (21.3-foot) holes horizontally at an angle of 15 degrees. This allowed for the installation of threaded anchor bars to hold the existing bridge in place and prevent further collapse. The fallen debris had been cleared from the track, but the bridge’s structural integrity had been compromised and this meant that trains were restricted to traveling at just 20 mph through the area. Therefore, we had to ensure the work was completed as quickly as possible so that normal services and speeds could resume.” For the team from D-Drill, the nature of what the core drill operators would be drilling through was unknown. The bridge had stood for over 100 years and no one quite knew what material operators would find behind the brickwork. Core drilling

A collapsed bridge brought rail services to a halt.

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

Operators created 14 holes measuring 3 and 4 inches in diameter.

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 3 5


Concrete Cases

continued

was performed using mining barrels, which allowed the anchors to be positioned without the threat of the ground strata slipping—a risk when using traditional drilling methods. Scaffolding was erected on the north side of the bridge and core drill operators began to mount their rigs for the first holes. There were three rows of holes, generally spaced 1 meter (3.3 feet) from each other, but some positions were adjusted to avoid existing utility services running through the bridge structure. The contractor employed DD200 core drills supplied by Hilti, Inc. fitted with 75- and 100-millimeter-diameter (3- and 4-inch) bits to create the required openings to depths of 500 and 1,000 millimeters (19.7 and 39.4 inches). Once adjusted to the correct 15-degree angle, coring commenced through the brickwork of the bridge wall and it took approximately eight hours to drill through the entire width of the bridge. This process was repeated for the remaining 13 holes and all core drilling work was completed in five days. D-Drill had six operators in two teams working alternate 12-hour shifts to ensure the work was finished as quickly as possible with no drilling down time. “The material within the bridge revealed itself to be clay, which was difficult to drill as The core drilling contractor made a series of holes in the 23-foot-wide bridge for the installation of strengthening bars.

36 | MARCH .17


The damaged structure was coated with concrete and repair works got underway.

it was slumping as the barrels were extended. However, our expertise in core drilling meant that the required amount of holes were drilled and sleeved to allow the anchors to be successfully installed. The job required a huge amount of back-to-back man hours and our untraditional methods ensured that the desired outcome was achieved promptly and to a high standard,” said Platts. The delicate condition of the bridge was of some concern to the contractor, but the use of core drilling techniques with diamond tools provided low levels of noise and vibration and helped mitigate against further collapses. Daily safety meetings were conducted to mitigate risk and protect workers around the collapsed structure. Scaffolding was tied off to avoid tipping. In total, D-Drill operators core drilled in excess of 98 meters (321.5 feet) through the Grove Lane Bridge to create 14 holes for strengthening anchor bars. The railway reopened to passenger trains the following day and the bridge reopened to pedestrians three weeks later. Platts was pleased with the outcome of the job. “The client was happy with the great effort from the drilling team and we are confident this will result in further work in the future.” Following D-Drill’s work, the general contractor successfully installed the anchor bars, removed around 200 tons of debris and sprayed the bridge surface with concrete to stabilize it. Work was then carried out to restructure the railway embankment and restore the brick parapet wall. The Grove Lane Bridge reopened fully to road traffic in January 2017. “We mobilized on very short notice and sourced all of the specialty tools and equipment needed to allow 24-hour working on-site. This ensured the project was brought to a successful outcome for us and the customer,” said Lionel Whittemore, contracts coordinator for D-Drill’s Midlands office. REVIEW AND COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE AT: WWW.CONCRETEOPENINGS.COM

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

The diamond core drillers used stainless steel mining barrels to avoid the holes closing or collapsing before the new anchor bars were fitted.

COMPANY PROFILE D-Drill Master Drillers Ltd. has been a member of CSDA for 35 years and has been in business since 1967. Based in Coventry, England, the company has 94 employees and 70 trucks in 10 locations across the country. D-Drill offers services that include core drilling, slab sawing, wall sawing, hand sawing, wire sawing, controlled demolition, diamond floor grinding and floor preparation services. RESOURCES General Contractor: AMCO Sawing and Drilling Contractor: D-Drill Master Drillers Ltd. Coventry, United Kingdom Phone: 44-1752 341364 Email: lionelwhittemore@d-drill.co.uk Website: www.d-drill.co.uk METHODS USED: Core Drilling

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 3 7


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.

Advancements in Diamond Chain—Get the Most Out of Your Concrete Chain Saw By Joe Taccogna

M

any advances have taken place in the three decades since diamond chains became commercially available for cutting concrete. Diamonds, saws and the chains themselves have all evolved significantly along with the best practices for this discipline. This article will highlight some of the changes and help contractors get the most out of the concrete chain saws they own. The earliest diamond chains were almost prohibitively expensive, but the unique utility of diamond chains allowed pro-cutters to perform cuts that would have been otherwise nearly impossible. The benefits of a chain were promising enough to encourage producers to improve the technology over time. There are chains on the market today that may physically resemble those early chains, but that is where the resemblance ends. From larger chain

components, better diamond segments, advanced in heat-treating and laser welding to rivet joint sealing technology, today’s chains are worlds apart in performance and cost of use. New designs are on the horizon that will improve performance out-of-the-box and provide more efficient cutting with less operator effort. Initially, diamond chain for concrete was only available on hydraulic-powered saws. While hydraulic-power is still available and has its own real advantages, high-frequency saws, pneumatic saws and gas-powered saws are now on the market and there are situations where each type has an advantage over the others. For the purpose of illustration, we will use a gas-powered saw but these tips generally apply to all types of concrete chain saw.

STARTING A CUT The best way to start any cut with a concrete chain saw is to plunge cut. Rev the saw up to full RPM and slowly push the nose of the bar into the cut. Unlike a wood cutting chain saw, there is no rotational kickback. In fact, cutting with the nose of the bar, plunging straight into the wall is the fastest method of cutting and the preferred method of starting all cuts. When making the first cut: • Outline the cut with a permanent marker. • Start the saw and, after a brief warm-up period, rev and hold the trigger at full throttle. Always use full throttle when cutting. • Score the entire line cut approximately 0.5-inch deep using the nose of the guide bar. Next, deepen the cut by about 2 inches. Always operate the concrete saw at full

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Plunge in

Cut down to open slot

Insert WallWalker rotate rear handle up

Pull saw out, rotate rear handle down, press bottom of saw to leading edge of cut and rotate rear handle up

Reengage WallWalker and repeat steps 3 & 4

3 8 | SE PTE MBE R.16


throttle. If too much force is applied, the saw will lug or stall. The chain will not have enough speed to cut effectively. If too little feed force is applied, the diamonds will skid and glaze over. Plunge cut instead of starting at the top surface of the wall. This will reduce chatter, extend diamond life, create a straighter cut and more quickly enable the use of the WallWalker (if equipped). When cutting heavy rebar, slowly “rock” the saw to be always cutting concrete as well as steel. This will help keep the diamonds exposed. Also, expect less chain life when cutting heavy rebar. Expect more chain stretch when making nose-buried cuts for extended periods of time, as the chain does not have a chance to “throw” the slurry away from the nose of the guide bar. If the saw begins to cut consistently crooked, stop the saw, remove the bar and chain and turn the bar over and use the other side. Dress worn rails with a belt sander. The guide bar is solely a guide track for the chain. Never use the guide bar to lift, twist or pry concrete material. When using a new chain, the initial cutting speed can be increased by “opening up the diamonds.” This can be accomplished by first making a few cuts in an abrasive material such as a cinder block or brick. PROPER CHAIN SELECTION It is important to select the correct chain for the job as a contractor may have more than one type in use. Like other cutting systems and technologies, there are different diamond segment “recipes” for cutting different types of material. These recipes are formulated specifically for cutting these material types and choosing the right segment will not only improve performance, but can save time and money. PROPER CHAIN TENSION: Tension the chain so that one drive link is completely out of the groove and the rest of the drive links are at least partially inside the groove. The chain should be loose enough that it can easily be pulled around the guide bar by hand. Horizontal cutting and longer chain lengths require greater chain tensioning discipline because there is a higher chance of chain coming out of the groove during cutting. Excessively loose chain tension may also

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

allow the chain to skip over the teeth of the drive sprocket, causing damage to the drive links. Over tensioning the chain will increase nose sprocket and drive sprocket wear, accelerate chain stretch and rob the cutting system of power. PROPER BAR RAIL MAINTENANCE: Guide bars are designed to be used on both sides. Just like rotating tires, the bar will last longer if wear is evened out. Turn the guide bar over periodically to maximize usage. A guide bar is at end of life when both sets of guide bar rails are worn to a point where the drive-links bottom out in the groove. PROPER CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF NOSE SPROCKETS The nose sprocket inside the guide bar is cooled and lubricated with water. Most guide bars have water channels inside that deliver water to the chain drive link groove and also into the roller bearings inside the nose sprocket. Dirty water or water scum inside portable storage tanks can clog guide bar internal water ports and starve these critical components of cooling and lubrication. To improve the longevity of the nose sprocket: • Ensure clean or filtered water is supplied. Free run the saw with water flowing for several seconds after cutting to thoroughly flush the nose sprocket with water. • Promptly apply a film of lightweight oil to the entire cutting system, with particular attention to the nose sprocket. Understand that heavy plunge cutting may shorten nose sprocket life. Avoid overtensioning of the chain, which puts more stress on the bearings inside the sprocket nose. If properly operated and maintained, the sprocket nose should last the life of the guide bar. PROPER CARE OF DRIVE SPROCKETS: The drive sprocket on a concrete chain

saw is a critical part of the cutting system because it is where power is introduced to the chain. Drive sprockets do wear out over time and exceeding the normal operating life of the drive sprocket will lead to chain and sprocket interface slippage, causing damage to the chain drive links. It is important to understand how to avoid excessive wear and when it is time to replace a drive sprocket. Grooving of the teeth on the drive sprocket is a normal wearing action that occurs because of abrasive slurry moving between the chain and drive sprocket during operation. Although new drive sprockets are not directional and may be installed either way, the direction of rotation should be maintained for the entire life of the drive sprocket. Reversing the direction will lead to drive links pinching in the groove. For best results and to improve the longevity of your drive sprocket: • •

Avoid excessive chain tension as this accelerates drive sprocket grooving. Ensure sufficient water flow as inadequate water supply accelerates drive sprocket grooving. Replace the drive sprocket the teeth become sharply pointed or the drive links have work 75 percent of the way through.

WATER SUPPLY As mentioned earlier, water is necessary to keep the cutting system working properly and a good water supply will help to maximize the life of all of the components. Here are a few final points about water supply to remember: • Minimum water pressure required is 20 psi. • If using a portable water supply, ensure the pump is supplying adequate water pressure output. • Screen or filter any portable water to ensure a clean water supply. • Periodically replace the inline hose screen at the hose bib if using a conventional water hose. Adequate water pressure and lubrication in storage are the keys to maximizing guide bar nose sprocket life.

Joe Taccogna is the Marketing & Customer Operations Manager for ICS Blount, Inc. based in Portland, Oregon. Taccogna had worked for the company since 1994 and has made previous contributions to Concrete Openings. He can be reached at joe.taccogna@blount.com or 503-653-4644.

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 3 9


Core Health Industry Bits continued

Preventing and Treating Sprains and Strains By Erin O’Brien Fig. 1

A

lmost everyone has experienced a sprain or strain at some point in their lives. Whether the injury is due to an on-the-job accident or a game of touch football in the backyard, the result is still the same. While these injuries certainly are not life-threatening, they may prevent a worker from performing day-to-day activities on the job, possibly for an extended period of time. Most strains and sprains can be prevented and, if they do occur, can heal quickly with proper care. This article will define sprains and strains, how to prevent them and what to do in case of injury. One of the most common injuries a worker may suffer from is a strain. A strain involves the stretching or tearing of muscle fibers due to an overload of resistance or an abnormal muscle contraction. A mild strain is characterized by the stretching of the muscle fibers and results in immediate sharp pain, difficulty moving the affected joint and later followed by soreness, bruising and swelling. Moderate to severe strains involve a partial or complete tearing of the muscle fibers and the symptoms are much more severe. A severe strain could result in the loss of function in that joint for an extended period of time. Common locations for strains are the lower back, neck, hamstring and bicep. Strains are usually caused by lifting heavy objects, a sudden muscle contraction or an accident involving force, such as a fall or car accident. (Fig. 1) A sprain is the partial or complete tearing of a ligament. A ligament is a band of soft tissue that connects bone to bone. The severity of the sprain depends on the amount of fibers torn and in the most extreme case, the ligament is completely torn. Sprains are caused by a quick, forceful movement in the joint that exceeds the ligament’s strength and are especially common during athletic activities. Stepping off a ladder onto an uneven surface, falling from a height and slipping on a wet work surface are examples of on-the-job accidents that could cause sprains. Symptoms of a sprain are similar to those of a strain. The main difference between strains and sprains is

40 | MARCH .17

Strained muscle tissue

Normal muscle tissue

Fig. 2

Ligaments Torn Ligaments

that muscles affected by strains have a blood supply, which helps them to heal. Ligaments injured by sprains have little to no blood supply and therefore do not heal. The only way to “fix” a ligament injury is with surgical intervention or by allowing the ligament to scar down. Surgery is normally only required in extreme cases and requires a lengthy recovery. A ligament will scar down with physical therapy, but this scar tissue will make the joint stiffer. If treated properly, recovery time from a sprain that does not require surgery could be as little as a few days. Common sites for sprains include the ankle, knee, elbow and wrist. (Fig. 2) Strains can be prevented in most cases, while sprains are a little more unpredictable. If a muscle is tight or cold, it is more likely to be injured. A light warmup before any physical activity will loosen the muscle and warm it up by increasing blood flow to the area. Also, workers should use common sense on the job when attempting to lift heavy objects. Using proper lifting techniques, asking for assistance and avoiding lifting objects weighing over 75 pounds will greatly reduce a worker’s risk of

muscle injury. Since ligaments do not normally stretch, and sprains involve ligaments, it is harder to prevent a sprain. Warming up the muscles around the joints to be used will help those muscles support the joint and reduce the risk of a sprain. If a worker has a history of injury to a certain joint, they should wear a brace for added protection. Pain, swelling, bruising and difficulty moving the joint are all normal symptoms of sprains and strains. These symptoms will normally be worse on the first and second day after injury and will gradually decrease in subsequent days. Rest, ice and antiinflammatories such as Advil, Motrin or Ibuprofen are the best treatment for these injuries. If the symptoms last more than a few days, do not get better or are extremely painful initially, further medical assistance may be necessary. Once a sprain or strain has occurred, the worker is much more likely to sustain another injury in the same area, so precautions must be followed as the next injury will likely be worse. While they can be debilitating, timeconsuming injuries, most strains and sprains are preventable. Proper stretching and warm-up before engaging in high-risk activities will greatly reduce a worker’s risk of sustaining one of these injuries. If injury does occur, take care of the injured area and seek medical help if necessary. For more information on the subject of preventing sprains and strains, please review the CSDA/OSHA Alliance Toolbox Safety Talk, CSDA-OTST-1001, by visiting www.csda.org and clicking on the Safety header. Erin O’Brien, MS, ATC is a Certified Athletic Trainer. She 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 can be reached at erin@csda.org or 727-577-5004.


Dust Extraction Systems For All Industries We are Here to Help Pullman Ermator and its team of experts from numerous industries are here to help. With its iComply program we can help the contractor through our distribution chain with OSHA compliance.

What is Silica? • Silica is quartz, and is found naturally in almost all rock, sand, soil, brick and concrete products

“The tools that we need to protect workers are already out there. They’re available. They’re not prohibitively expensive, and they need to be implemented.”

• Respirable crystalline silica particles penetrate deep into the lungs causing lung disease • Silica exposure remains a serious threat to nearly 2 million U.S. working, including more than 100,000 workers in high risk jobs such as abrasive blasting, foundry work, stone-cutting, rock drilling, quarry work and tunneling

-Deven Johnson

Director of Training, Health and Safety for the Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association

Silica Health Hazards Symptoms Shortness of breath Loss of appetite Chest pains Silicosis A non-reversible lung disease with diffuse nodular pulmonary fibrosis Acute Silicosis Chronic Silicosis Accelerated Silicosis

Fatigue Severe Cough Cyanosis (bluish skin) COPD

(Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

A lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs by becoming thick and inflamed while air sacs lose their elastic quality. Too much mucus is made and blocks airways

UPDATED FINES FOR 2017 Type of Violation

Current Maximum Penalty

NEW Maximum Penalty

Serious

$7,000 per violation

$12,471 per violation

Failure to Abate

$7,000 per day

$12,471 per day

Willful or Repeated

$70,000 per violation

$126,000 per violation

CONTACT US AT

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

How do I Comply? • Exposure determination

• Provide medical surveillance

• Use Table 1 or Monitor exposure

• Provide proper training

• Create a written exposure plan

• Required recordkeeping

• Designate a competent person

• Use proper HEPA dust collection

Go to www.iComplysilica.com

To see a list of presentations to find one near you

How to Choose a HEPA Vacuum Important points of requirements • High quality HEPA filters that are tested and certified, with a rating of at least 99.99 at 0.3 micron • 25 CFM PER BLADE INCHES REQUIRED FOR HAND GRINDERS • High CFM & Water Lift for proper matching to equipment • Must have a mechanical filter cleaning method, contained allowing no dust to escape • Multi levels of filtration, that include a cyclonic chamber, pre-filters, HEPA’s and pre-separators • Drop down bagging containment systems, no dust can or tray • Availability to attach tools for collection at the source • Wet and dry availability when needed

C O N C RET E O P EN I N G S | 4 1


Polished Perspective

Dealing with Delaminations By David Stephenson

C

oncrete placement is never easy, with many variables such as wind, sun, ambient temperature and humidity to consider as they all affect each pour. The mix design and consideration of the actual makeup of the concrete and possible additives are just as important. In today’s world, ready-mix suppliers tweak the mix designs in thousands of small ways with additives to assist the placement and offset some of these considerations. Sometimes these modifications have unintended consequences. Over the last couple of years, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend of delamination (a separation of the layers) occurring on slab placements. When discussing concrete, this usually occurs when the paste layer at the surface separates, causing a thin layer of concrete that’s not bonded to the body of the slab. TWO MAIN CULPRITS As you can imagine this separation can cause a lot of problems. Before we discuss preparation and repair, it is important you understand the two main causes of delamination. Delamination in concrete is often caused by a high air content that becomes trapped by a tight power-troweled finish on the surface. The tight finish allows small air bubbles to get trapped. When they become trapped, they combine to make larger bubbles. These bubbles push the closed surface up as air tries to escape the top of the concrete slab. Later, these raised blisters harden and then break with traffic. This type of delamination is usually seen in nickel- or quarter-size areas but they can be larger. The largest area of wholesale delamination caused by air that I’ve seen is about two-feet square. The second main cause for delamination is trapped bleed water. As concrete sets, it forces water out of the mix. When a vapor barrier is placed under a slab, the water escapes out of the top. Sometimes, especially in cool temperatures or when the slab is under roof with walls in place, the concrete set takes an extended amount of time. I’ve seen

42 | MARCH .17

Photo Caption: This is what delamination looks like before it’s repaired. Photo courtesy of David Stephenson.

instances where the concrete placement subcontractors sit around for hours waiting on the bleed water release to complete so they can trowel the concrete. When the subs are tired of waiting, they occasionally start the troweling process without allowing the bleed water to fully come out of the slab. When this happens, similar to the air issue, the bleed water becomes trapped under the tight troweled surface paste. Small pockets of water join to make larger areas where the water pushes against the surface paste and creates blisters. Over time, the water evaporates or relocates in the slab structure leaving empty blisters. These blisters eventually break from traffic or maintenance and a delamination becomes evident. ALL FLOORING TYPES AFFECTED Delaminations cause issues with any flooring option. Although the problem is quickest to be noticed on polished and decorative concrete flooring, delaminations also cause separation of the manufactured material from the slab body with tile, vinyl composition tile or vinyl laminate tile. I was on a project recently where, as we were walking across the store, the architect’s toe caught a tile and it went skittering across the floor. When we picked it up, the tile was bonded well to the concrete, but the

concrete paste layer came off and was stuck to the tile itself. Under carpet, the concrete breaks up and causes lumps that wear faster in isolated spots. Delamination is a major issue under resinous coatings as the delaminations split the topcoat and open pathways for moisture intrusion. This causes rapid separation of sections much larger than the original delamination. It is extremely important to remove delaminations prior to the installation of any finished flooring. SEVERAL WAYS TO GO So the question is: “How do we remove delaminations?” The first thing you need to do is determine the depth of the delamination. Issues caused by a high air content are generally very shallow with an average depth of 0.0625 to 0.25 inch. Issues caused by bleed water entrapment can be deeper, with delaminations occurring up to 0.5 inch deep. The concrete preparation can be done using one of several potential methods. If the delaminations are shallow enough, a deep grind (using low-grit diamond grinding tooling on a large concrete grinder) will remove the delamination and bring the floor to a solid substrate. This is by far the easiest and most cost-effective option. Grinding through the delaminations will generally expose large aggregate, which can provide a beautiful finish in itself.


The next step in progressive floor preparation would be to use bush-hammer tooling on the large concrete grinders. All major machinery manufacturers offer a version of bush-hammer tooling. This tooling was originally designed to remove coatings or overlays but it also works extremely well as a floor preparation tool. This process generally costs more than standard grinding because additional grinding steps must be completed to remove the rough surface profile. Shot blasting is an option, but the user should be aware of the slow processing time and extremely aggressive profile that will remain. This fix is limited by the size of the shot portal on the machinery. A 6- to 10-inch-wide profile is standard so with thin passes it can take quite a while to prepare a large area. The most aggressive option for preparation would be a scarifier or shaver. These tools can be set to remove extremely large amounts of concrete. However, they leave an aggressive grooved profile in the concrete that will usually need to be ground down to provide a smoother surface profile. No matter which option you choose for removal, it is important to remember that without the proper floor preparation and removal, delaminations will cause ongoing issues for the life of the building. All or most of the delamination areas must be remediated to provide a sound substrate. The time necessary and the disposal involved with removing large amounts of concrete with a remediation process are important considerations. REPAIRS ARE MANAGEABLE With a good plan, repairs of this type are manageable and can provide good results. While no one ever wants to have a situation arise where repairs of this type are necessary, understanding the problem as well as the potential repair options allows for a much better resolution to issues of delamination. 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

EQUIPMENT 866-688-1032 DIAMOND TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

eStore Shop Parts & Accessories meritsaw.com/parts/

Concrete DĂŠcor.

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 | 4 3


Industry Bits LineTrac™ XT Accessory Released by GSSI GSSI, a leading manufacturer of ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment, has announced the release of LineTrac™ XT, an accessory to the StructureScan Mini XT. The combination of the StructureScan Mini XT and LineTrac XT helps concrete professionals locate specific power sources in concrete, including alternating current (AC) and induced radio frequency energy present in conduits. The new LineTrac XT accessory combines radar data with a magnetometer and includes a number of features to identify target utilities, including integration with StructureScan Mini XT, seamless data fusion with GPR data, a 50/60 hertz electromagnetic sensor used to locate powered conduits and an IP-65 rated enclosure. It can detect extremely low amplitude AC signals associated with difficult to locate conduits. The LineTrac XT accessory complies with all applicable FCC, RSS, RoHS, and CE requirements. It can operate in temperatures ranging from 14 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The StructureScan Mini XT now comes equipped with the LineTrac XT software package. Users insert the LineTrac XT into the front accessory port, select the LineTrac XT module and choose between 50 or 60 hertz. For More Information Contact: Jami Harmon Tel: 603-893-1109 Email: harmonj@geophysical.com

Diamond Products Announces Great White Core Bits Diamond Products Limited announces the latest in high-quality Core Bore diamond core drill bits with the Great White lineup. These new bits are designed to create holes in heavily-reinforced concrete with specialized diamond “Shark-Tooth” segments. The pointed segments offer fast coring and long life. The bond specification (GWOL) is used on general purpose concrete coring with medium aggregate and reinforcement. These Core Bore bits are offered in a range of sizes from 2 inches to 12 inches in diameter. For More Information Contact: Jim Palmer Tel: 800-321-5336 Email: jpalmer@diamondproducts.com www.diamondproducts.com

Husqvarna Flat Saw Released with Longer Base Plate Husqvarna has released a modified version of its recently launched FS 7000 D flat saw. Like its relative, the new FS 7000 DL model is powered by a common-rail diesel engine with emission control and is compliant with EPA Tier 4 emission regulations. The company’s development team successfully built a test prototype based on the FS 7000 D, but with a longer base plate equipped with a heavy-duty blade shaft capable of running blades up to 60 inches in diameter. This makes it possible to optimize the saw’s weight distribution for greater productivity—maximizing pressure on the blade and drive wheels utilizing the toque, while minimizing the lifting weight on the handlebars. The FS 7000 DL has a 178-cubic-inch, 66-horsepower Deutz turbo diesel engine. Its maximum cutting depth is 25 inches and weight is between 2,290 and 2,808 pounds depending on the size of blade fitted. For More Information Contact: Cate Stratemeier Tel: 913-928-1442 Email: cate.stratemeier@husqvarnagroup.com

44 | MARCH .17


Merit Introduces Steerable All Wheel Drive Saw

Concrete Breaker Hammer from Makita

Merit is pleased to introduce the first steerable all-wheel drive saw on the market. The AWD-65HP-G is the latest addition to the company’s ever-growing product line. The 65-horsepower, gas-powered saw has an innovative patent-pending design that provides control and ease of operation when cutting uphill, downhill, sideways on grade, and on radiuses. Weighing 1,800 pounds, the AWD-65HP-G has a blade capacity of 14 to 48 inches in diameter with a maximum cutting depth of 21 inches. Depth control is achieved by a hydraulic raise and lowering mechanism with an adjustable depth stop. The saw’s WG2503 Kubota engine has a capacity of 8 gallons and helps it achieve speeds up to 240 feet per minute. The AWD-65HP-G stands 57 inches tall and measures 63 inches in length.

Makita has expanded its lineup of concrete hammers with a new 70-pound Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT®) breaker hammer, model HM1812X3. The hammer has a 15-amp motor that delivers a full 53.9 footpounds of impact energy so contractors get hard-hitting performance. It is engineered to hit like an air hammer but with less noise, vibration and without the expense and added setup time of a compressor and hose. The AVT® internal counterbalance system is designed to greatly reduce vibration for increased user comfort and greater efficiency. The HM1812X3 features an enhancement to this technology with a new synchronized three-component system. The internal mechanical counterbalance system, vibration-absorbing housing and fixed movement handles are engineered for significantly less vibration during concrete breaking applications. Model HM1812X3 is a kit and also includes a premium hammer cart, as well as two 1.125- by 20.5-inch flat chisels and two 16-inch self-sharpening bull point bits.

For More Information Contact: Alexis Ferguson DiMarco Tel: 917-274-7203 Email: adimarco@meritsaw.com

For More Information Contact: Wayne Hart Tel: 714-522-8088 x4410 Email: whart@makitausa.com

Electric-Powered Brokk 110 Introduced to Industry The new Brokk 110 electric-powered demolition machine features increased demolition power over its predecessor, the Brokk 100, and includes an all-new Brokk SmartPower™ electrical system. It features a 10-foot reach, weighs 2,183 pounds and delivers 15 percent more power than the older Brokk 100 and 50 percent more than its predecessor, the Brokk 90. SmartPower™, Brokk’s all-new electrical system (also available on the new 120D and 280 models), is an intelligent system that incorporates hardened components and fewer moving parts than its predecessor. It optimizes performance based on a number of factors, including power supply quality and ambient temperature. The system can sense when a power supply is poor or faulty, making it suitable for generators or unreliable power supplies. In addition to improvements to its overall power and electrical systems, the Brokk 110 also features upgrades like hardened parts, LED headlight protection, reinforced corners and a new steel gray color coating in strategic areas to add additional resistance against dirt and scratches. The new machine is compatible with the full range of attachments available for the Brokk 100 and, at 31 inches wide, can fit through standard doors and inside passenger elevators. For More Information Contact: Peter Bigwood Tel: 413-537-5572 Email: peter@brokkinc.com www.brokk.com

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 | 4 5


Industry Bits

Bill Solberg

Bill Solberg, 1935-2016 CSDA Past President William D. Solberg Sr. of Winchester, Massachusetts, passed away December 24, 2016. He was 81 years old. Bill was married to his wife Mary G. Solberg for 62 years and was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He was the loving father of Marybeth Cosgrove; Cheryl Hughes and the late William D. Solberg Jr. Bill was also the grandfather of Brendan, Terence and Kathleen Cosgrove; Daniel, Timothy and Whitney Hughes, and great grandfather of Lily, Emma, Penny and Wyatt William. He was the brother of Paul G. Solberg and the late Joan E. Giovino and Steven M. Solberg. Bill was the owner of Solberg Construction and was elected CSDA President in 1989, serving a two-year term. He held every Board office except Treasurer (a position that his wife Mary later held). During his presidency, Bill oversaw the restructuring of CSDA’s committees and the rewriting of the association’s Mission Statement with a stronger focus on contractors. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Edge Power Cutter Introduced to the Industry CSDA member Enviro Chasing is pleased to introduce the new Edge power cutter, developed to better handle silica dust. The hand-held concrete saw is in the final prototype stage and was demonstrated at World of Concrete in January. The Edge uses a combination of water and a vacuum system to deal with the production of silica while cutting. The slurry formed within the blade guard is removed through a vacuum hose and into a barrel. Along the way, the hose attaches to the muffler outlet and the exhaust fumes are moved down the same hose and away from the operator. The saw can accommodate a 15-inch-diameter blade and cut up to 6 inches deep. It has a cylinder volume of 5.7 cubic inches and a 34-fluid ounce fuel capacity. Results from preliminary independent testing for silica dust have been very positive. After two hours of cutting concrete indoors, the respirable silica dust levels were undetectable on the measurement equipment used. In addition, of the 106 gallons of water used during cutting, less than 1 percent of it escaped the blade guard. The Edge saw will be available for purchase later in the year. For More Information Contact: Craig Penty Tel: 61-427 522 244 Email: craig@envirochase.com

DD 250 Diamond Coring Tool Introduced by Hilti Hilti is pleased to introduce its new DD 250 diamond coring tool to the industry. The rig-based wet drilling system, DD 250, offers contractors a drilling range of 0.5 to 18 inches for a range of coring jobs, including heavy-duty anchoring, rebar, service entries, ventilation duct and sanitation pipes. It features four gears for faster drilling speed at the right torque, and it utilizes an innovative hole starting mode, making it easier for the operator to start a job. The tool’s digital display helps guide the operator during each coring job. The operator can follow the display to accurately level the tool, select the right gear for the job, check how much work has been accomplished, receive live status updates and service messages. The DD 250 has an air-cooled, heavyduty drive unit with four-speed gearing and controls. Rotating speeds include 240 rpm in gear 1, 580 rpm in gear 2, 1,160 rpm in gear 3 and 2,220 rpm in gear 4. As it is used for wet coring applications, the DD 250 is Table 1 compliant with the new OSHA §1926.1153 standard for respirable crystalline silica dust. For More Information Tel: 800-879-8000 (U.S.), 800-363-4458 (Canada) www.us.hilti.com (U.S.), www.hilti.ca (Canada)

46 | MARCH .17


Industry Bits New Bulldog™ Xtreme Rotary Hammer from Bosch The new Bosch GBH2-26 1-inch SDS-plus® Bulldog™ Xtreme rotary hammer weighs only 6.4 pounds but features an upgraded 8-amp motor that delivers 2 foot-pounds of impact energy and 0-4,000 impacts per minute. The GBH2-26 offers one-inch diameter capacity and three modes: drilling only, hammer drilling and chiseling. The user can optimize the chiseling angle with Vario-Lock™ positioning. The rotary hammer has a rotating brush plate that provides equal power in reverse and ensures long brush life. In addition, a variable-speed reversing trigger (integral clutch) offers accurate bit starting and removal of bound fasteners or bits. The SDS-plus bit system allows for tool-free bit changes with automatic bit locking, and the tool’s power cord has a flexible ball grommet that pivots 35 degrees to minimize wear and tear. The selector knob makes it easy to switch among drilling only, hammer drilling and chiseling. For More Information Contact: Steve Wilcox Tel: 224-232-2417 Email: steve.wilcox@us.bosch.com

K2 Diamond / Sanders Saws Introduces Blazin Diamond Blades K2 Diamond / Sanders Saws is very happy to introduce a new style of diamond blade for professional concrete sawing and drilling contractors. The new range of Blazin blades have been designed to provide users with top-end cutting speeds, typically associated with turbo-style blades, but with the reliability of a segmented diamond blade. Blazin blades are offered in a variety of sizes ranging from 14 to 24 inches in diameter and are suitable for quick cutting hand saws or portable low-horsepower slab saw applications. The blades are engineered with a unique blend of diamonds and powered matrix to produce a cured concrete cutting blade that can be run in either wet or dry cutting applications. For More Information Contact: Mike Nelson (K2) / Bill Chapple (Sanders) Tel: 800 539-6116 / 610-273-3733 Email: mike.nelson@k2diamond.com / bchapple@sanderssaws.com

Patriot Sawcutting Receives SmartCEO Future 50 Award CSDA member Patriot Sawcutting, Inc. was recently named a 2017 New Jersey SmartCEO Future 50 Award winner. The Future 50 Awards program is the largest SmartCEO awards program of the year, honoring companies that represent the future of the region’s economy and embody the entrepreneurial spirit critical for leadership and success. Co-founders Mike Garrett and Tom VanGeldren (pictured) were first and foremost concrete cutters who went into business for themselves. When making scheduling decisions, enacting companywide health care or requiring extra jobsite safety training, both men remember the hard work and dedication of their team members first. The company takes great pride and satisfaction from being ranked among 50 of the fastest growing companies in New Jersey and the 5,000 fastest growing privately held companies in the U.S., according to Inc. Magazine. For More Information Contact: Jillian Russo Tel: 855-729-2887 Email: jillian@patriotsawcutting.com

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 | 4 7


Industry Bits

continued

Keith Ripley

Diamond Products Names New Vice President of Sales and Marketing

Brokk Introduces Multi-Cutter Attachment Brokk, a leading manufacturer of remote-controlled demolition machines, is pleased to introduce the MC200 multi-cutter, expanding the versatility of smaller Brokk models in steel cutting applications. The one-of-a-kind steel cutting attachment is manufactured by Brokk’s sister company, Darda®. The 10-by-13-inch multi-cutter is 40 inches long and can be used on machines weighing 2,650 to 6,170 pounds. The attachment features a hydraulic 360-degree rotary drive for exact positioning and an 8-inch-wide jaw opening, able to handle a variety of metals. It weighs 265 pounds, yet uses a hydraulic booster to exert 50 tons of cutting force at 3,900 psi to cut through steel. To reduce costs to the end user, Darda also designed the MC200 so operators can sharpen the jaws rather than replace them. The attachment, combined with the remote capabilities of smaller Brokk models and arms that extend as far as 16 feet, allows contractors to easily cut beams, cable, supply lines and steel pipes in hard-to-reach areas. For More Information Contact: Peter Bigwood Tel: 413-537-5572 Email: peter@brokkinc.com www.brokk.com

Diamond Products Limited, a leader in diamond tools and equipment, announces the appointment of Keith Ripley to Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Ripley brings 27 years of sales, training, customer service and management experience. Hired in 1990, he has held many positions at Diamond Products including customer service, field sales representative in multiple territories and training manager. The last 10 years he has spent as the Regional Sales Manager for the Northeast U.S. As a veteran in the industry, Ripley brings extensive knowledge of the diamond tool and construction industry that will serve him well in his new capacity. Ripley, his wife and three daughters reside in Salem, Ohio. For More Information Contact: Jim Palmer Tel: 800-321-5336 Email: jpalmer@ diamondproducts.com

Dorothy Ann Long, 1940–2017

Dorothy Ann Long

48 | MARCH .17

Dorothy Ann Long, an industry professional with CSDA member Lombardo Diamond Core Drilling Co. and wife of association Past President Richard Long, passed away January 8, 2017. Born April 12, 1940, Dorothy is survived by her elder brother William Boehme, younger sister Judith Wagner and joins her younger brother James Boehme in peace. She met her sweetheart, Richard, at 15 years old and the two were married in 1959, remaining devoted to each other for another 57 years. The couple had two sons, John and Rick, then decided to join Richard’s father in business in the South Bay area of California, developing techniques for concrete drilling and sawing. Dorothy performed an integral role along with her husband and in-laws to start and develop Lombardo Diamond Core Drilling in Santa Clara, performing many jobs in the company throughout the years. She served as the company’s secretary/treasurer and board member through the end of her life. Dorothy enjoyed her golden years doting on her husband, kids, grandkids and great grand-kids. In addition to her siblings and husband Richard, Dorothy is survived by her sons John and Richard, her daughter-in-law Lisa, granddaughters Meghan, Jessica and Emily and grandson Richard Jr. and great grandchildren Tyler, Brayden, Brody and Wade. She will be missed by her friends within the association and all who knew her.


SHIBUYA Dry Drilling Attachment Introduced by DITEQ The dry drilling attachment from SHIBUYA was recently introduced at the 2017 World of Concrete at the DITEQ exhibit booths. The complete spindle assembly attaches to the core drill with standard 1.25-7-inch threads—no extra adapters required—to provide a vacuum attachment with airflow through the bit. The dry drilling attachment has heavy duty sealed bearings to provide a high quality solution to the age-old problem of controlling dust on dry drilling jobs. This new attachment will enable contractors to comply with OSHA Silica Rule requirements when dry core drilling is necessary. For More Information Contact: Mike Orzechowski Tel: 816-447-6161 Email: mikeo@diteq.com

Husqvarna Announces Acquisition of Pullman Ermator In January, Henric Andersson, President of Husqvarna Construction Products, announced that Husqvarna Group’s Construction Division had acquired Pullman Ermator AB and its range of dust extraction and control products. By closing this deal, the company hopes to open new business opportunities. To utilize the strengths of both brands, a multi-branding strategy will be applied and the goal is to create more effective solutions and offer greater productivity in the field of dust collection and suppression. Husqvarna-branded Pullman Ermator products will now be distributed through the company’s global sales and distribution network, and a range of 13 units were launched and displayed at the Husqvarna exhibit area during the recent World of Concrete trade show and exposition in Las Vegas. For More Information Contact: Cate Stratemeier Tel: 913-928-1442 Email: cate.stratemeier@husqvarnagroup.com

Wolverine Compact Combo Hydraulic Hand Saws Wolverine Equipment, Part of the Dixie Diamond-Concut Group, is pleased to introduce a range of flush-cut combo compact hydraulic hand saws for the professional user. These saws offer all the features of the company’s standard model, but have a specially-machined quick-attach hub for flush cutting. The flush-cut compact combo has a removable outer blade guard that allows the saw to be used for standard or flush cutting. This saw is available in sizes for 16-, 20- and 24-inch diameter cutting and contractors can choose from 8-, 10-, 12- or 15-gallons-per-minute motors.

Cary Evert

Avi Kahn

Hilti North America President and CEO to Retire, Successor Named Cary Evert, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hilti North America, has chosen to retire March 31, 2017. Over his nearly four-decade career, Cary has held nine different roles, including three international assignments, after first starting with the company in 1980 in New York, New York. Cary has served as President and CEO of Hilti North America since 2005. Avi Kahn, previsouly General Manager of Hilti Canada, has been promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer of Hilti North America effective January 1, 2017. Avi has developed through the ranks of the Hilti organization since starting his career in 2004 as a territory sales representative for construction in San Francisco. From there he was promoted to regional manager in San Diego and Hawaii. In 2008, Avi took on greater responsibility as the Chicago-based West Great Lakes division manager. In January 2011, Avi took an international assignment when the organization named him general manager of Hilti Canada. For More Information Tel: 800-879-8000 (U.S.), 800-363-4458 (Canada) www.us.hilti.com (U.S.), www.hilti.ca (Canada)

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

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 | 4 9


Industry Bits

continued

ICS Appoint New Sales Managers

Makita XRH05Z Cordless Rotary Hammer Makita’s XRH05Z rotary hammer is powered by two 18-volt LXT® Lithium-ion batteries, delivering 3 joules of impact energy and 4,800 beats per minute. The XRH05Z has a 1-inch-diameter drilling capacity at 0-1,250 rpm. It features three modes of operation, a one-touch sliding chuck and a torque limiting clutch engineered to prevent gear damage by automatically disengaging gears if the bit binds. An LED battery indicator shows the charge level for each 18-volt battery while its compact design, measuring 14.25 inches long and weighing 11.3 pounds, makes it a suitable tool for many operators. Added features include an ergonomic pistol grip handle with rubberized soft grip designed for increased comfort on the job. For More Information Contact: Wayne Hart Tel: 714-522-8088 x4410 Email: whart@makitausa.com

Larry Dan Hollingsworth, 1955-2016 Larry “Dan” Hollingsworth, an industry professional and husband of CSDA Past President Susan Hollingsworth, died at the age of 61 surrounded by his family on December 21, 2016. Born September 16, 1955 in Gadsden, Alabama, Dan was raised by LD and Mindelle Hollingsworth. He worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad and, after moving to Texas, worked over 30 years for CSDA member Holes Incorporated in Houston. An avid hunter and fisherman, Dan was a true outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He married Susan on July 20, 1985 and they have been married for 31 years, recently retiring on Lake Conroe together. Dan is survived by wife Susan; his children, Darlene and her husband Greg, Kim, Kellie and Angela; and his grandchildren, Dan Hollingsworth Josh Calvert, Samantha Aitken, Sarah Aitken, Gregory East, Sarah East, Rebecca East, Susana Vazquez, Sofia Vazquez, Noah Clawson, Briana Kimball, Brayden Kimball, Cayden Kimball and Narayan Gohokar, his brothers Steve and Tim, and his father LD. Dan attended many CSDA events over the years and will be missed by his friends within the association and all who knew him.

50 | MARCH .17

ICS, Blount Inc., is pleased to announce the appointment of three new sales managers. Chris Lott is the new Pro-Direct Regional Sales Manager for Texas. Chris has worked for the past 11 years as a project manager, estimator and concrete cutting operator in the Gulf Coast Region of the U.S. He resides in Beaumont, Texas with his wife and four children, and can be reached at 503-341-1818 or at christopher. Chris Lott lott@blount.com. Bruce Knotts is now the Pro-Direct Regional Sales Manager for the southeast region. He previously held the role of Diamond Application Specialist with ICS and has worked in the diamond tool industry for over 25 years. Bruce resides in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife and son, and can be reached at 971-317-6322 or at bruce.knotts@ blount.com. Mike Hosier is the new ProDirect Regional Sales Manager for the northeast region. Mike brings more than Bruce Knotts 20 years of experience in construction and manufacturing sales, construction management and diamond tool sales to ICS. He resides in northeastern Pennsylvania with his wife and two boys, and can be reached at 503-708-2701 or at mike.hosier@blount.com. For More Information Contact: Scott Brown Tel: 503-708-8048 Email: Scott.brown@blount.com Mike Hosier

Bosch CORE 18-Volt Professional-Grade Battery The Bosch CORE 18-volt battery employs advanced Lithium-ion technology to deliver 80 percent more power than the previous generation of Bosch batteries. Next-generation, high-powered cells are laser-welded and rail-connected for high efficiency, allowing the new batteries to deliver better performance than competitive batteries despite weighing 24 percent less and measuring 35 percent smaller. The CORE 18-volt battery has 10 high-density cells that ensure lower internal resistance. This means higher currents can be drawn from the cells over a longer period of time. The battery also delivers up to 20 percent longer runtime than previousgeneration Bosch 6-ampere hour batteries and up to 50 percent longer than 5-ampere hour cells in extreme applications. The battery housing is designed to transfer more heat to the outer surface, resulting in up to 35 percent better cooling effect than previous CoolPack batteries. In addition, Bosch CORE 18-volt batteries provide 100 percent compatibility with all 18-volt Bosch Lithium-ion tools and chargers. For More Information Contact: Steve Wilcox Tel: 224-232-2417 Email: steve.wilcox@us.bosch.com


Industry Bits Seal/No Seal Group Releases TTI Study on Sealant Effectiveness This past January, during World of Concrete, Larry Scofield, Director of Engineering and Research for the International Grooving and Grinding Association and director of Pavement Innovation for the American Concrete Pavement Association, discussed the study results of Qualification of Joint Sealant Effectiveness Regarding Jointed Concrete Pavement Performance. The Seal/No Seal (SNS) Group has released the results of this study conducted by Dr. Dan Zollinger at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI). A key outcome of this project is the advancement of a mechanistic tool for analysis of specific combinations of traffic, climate, base materials and sealant condition on subbase erosion and pavement performance. This is the first tool of its kind that allows assessment of the sealant effectiveness on pavement performance. The study did not attempt to research sealant effectiveness through traditional approaches such as characterizing sealant performance in terms of joint seal properties. Instead, TTI took a more rigorous approach to evaluate performance in terms of the amount of infiltration through the joint and the consequential impacts on subbase erosion and pavement distress. Another aspect of the study evaluated the use of ground penetrating radar (GPR) to detect the existence of moisture under the slabs. With the use of GPR, it now appears feasible to detect the existence of moisture under the slabs in the vicinity of the joint from a water infiltration standpoint and more importantly, to assess when a sealant is no longer effective. To view a shortened version of the report, visit http://sealnoseal.org/PDF/TechBrief/ Tech_Brief_SNS_TTI_Report.pdf. For More Information Contact: Kari Moosemann Tel: 630-541-3857 Email: kmoosemann@ constructivecommunication.com

LATICRETE® Appoints Director of North American Sales LATICRETE® SUPERCAP®, a leading manufacturer of quality self-leveling materials delivered through its industry-leading patented pump truck technology, has announced that Chad Love has joined the company in the position of Director of Sales. Reporting to President Doug Metchick, Love is charged with growing the customer base and managing business sales representatives throughout

North America. He joins LATICRETE after a decade of experience in the commercial flooring industry with a background in carpet, resilient, ceramic, stone, terrazzo and epoxy floor finishes. Love most recently served as a Vice President at David Allen Company, opening a new branch office in Birmingham, Alabama. For More Information Contact: Clint Schramm Tel: 631-445-5037 Email: clintschramm@laticretesupercap.com www.laticretesupercap.com

Chad Love

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 | 5 1


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

52 | MARCH .17

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.

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 | 5 3


Membership

NE

W

North American Contractors

Overseas Contractor

DANASCO

TOPPRO DIAMOND TOOLS PRODUCT

Edgewood, Washington

Selangor, Malaysia

FINE CUT DRILLING & SAWING

ME

Pleasant Hill, Missouri

GPR Imaging Contractor

HUTTON CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.

PROSCAN CONCRETE IMAGING, INC.

Pueblo West, Colorado

MAVERICK CUTTING & BREAKING

Oakwood, Georgia

MBE

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Manufacturers

MAX FLOOR SPECIALIST

LISSMAC CORPORATION

Brandon, Mississippi

Concrete Polishing Contractors

R

CCP CUT-CORE-POLISH

Waterford, New York

RINKER MATERIALS MIAMI Miami, Florida

Eubank, Kentucky

Affiliate

HOOVER WELLS INC.

PRISTINE ENVIRONMENTAL, LLC

Toledo, Ohio

St. Joseph, Minnesota

S

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

54 | MARCH .17

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 As my business enters its 20th year of CSDA membership and I prepare to assume the role of CSDA President, I have taken time to look back on my years in the industry. I had the good fortune to work for a man who belonged to the association and believed in its mission, sending me to the first ever training program offered by CSDA. He appeared to me to be a man who walked the walk, not just talked the talk. This resonated with one of my deepest values.

TRAINING

In my life and my business, I place a high value on integrity. It is of utmost importance that my actions, both personal and business, are consistent with this value. To me, this means I provide a safe and respectful place for my employees to work. It means I provide my employees Jack Sondergard Central Concrete Cutting, Inc. with high quality equipment and supplies, as well as the Edgar, Wisconsin training necessary for them to perform their work safely, jacksondergard@sprynet.com efficiently and professionally. This in turn, allows me to provide service to my customers that is high quality and fairly priced. My membership in CSDA supports my vision of a company run with integrity through its valuable safety and training programs. I believe membership in a professional organization with common goals encourages all of us to use proven Best Practices which elevates our industry as a whole. The opportunity to interact with other members at committee meetings and at the annual convention has been invaluable, and I have developed relationships with people I would not have otherwise met. This allows for the exchange of information pertinent to our industry, as well as providing a chance to have some fun. The mentoring of new business owners and the camaraderie of veterans is crucial to the advancement of our industry. Joining CSDA has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business.

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.

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. 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 | 5 5


Calendar MARCH 14-15

SEPTEMBER 7-8

NOVEMBER 6-7

CSDA Spring Meetings

CSDA Fall Meetings

CSDA Slab Sawing & Core Drilling 201 Certification

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

The Westin Phoenix Downtown Phoenix, Arizona Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

St. Petersburg College Clearwater, Florida Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

MARCH 15-16

SEPTEMBER 14-17

NOVEMBER 6-11

New York Build Expo 2017

ASCC Annual Conference

Concrete Décor Show 2017

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

Innisbrook Golf Resort Palm Harbor, Florida Tel: 877-935-8906 Email: info@concretedecorshow.com www.concretedecorshow.com

MARCH 16-18

OCTOBER 9-10

NOVEMBER 8-9

CSDA Convention & Tech Fair

CSDA Slab Sawing & Core Drilling 101 Training

CSDA Wall Sawing 201 Certification

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

MAY 18-20

ICS Blount, Inc. Portland, Oregon Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

St. Petersburg College Clearwater, Florida Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

NOVEMBER 10-11

IACDS Annual Convention

OCTOBER 9-11

CSDA Wire Sawing 201 Certification

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

Infra Oman 2017 Oman Convention & Exhibition Center Sultanate of Oman Email: info@alnimrexpo.com www.alnimrexpo.com

St. Petersburg College Clearwater, Florida Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

Miacon – Construction Show of Miami

OCTOBER 11-12

NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 1

Miami Airport Convention Center Miami, Florida Email: tony@miacon.net www.miacon.net

CSDA Wall Sawing 101 Training

CSDA Winter Meetings

MAY 18-20

JUNE 8-9 CSDA Summer Meetings The Westin Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

JULY 20-23 ASCC Concrete Executive Leadership Forum Palmetto Bluff Bluffton, South Carolina Tel: 314-962-0210 Email: mforsythe@ascconline.org www.ascconline.org

56 | MARCH .17

ICS Blount, Inc. Portland, Oregon Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

OCTOBER 13-14 CSDA Wire Sawing 101 Training ICS Blount, Inc. Portland, Oregon Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

CSDA Summer Meetings Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol Austin, Texas Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.org

2018 JANUARY 23-26 World of Concrete Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada Tel: 972-536-6423 www.worldofconcrete.com

MARCH 6-10 CSDA Convention & Tech Fair Grand Wailea Resort Maui, Hawaii Tel: 727-577-5004 Email: info@csda.org www.csda.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 | 5 7


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

ADVERTISER

PHONE

EMAIL

47

Bitwizard

661-344-7705

edwin@bitwizard.biz

11, 21

Brokk, Inc.

877-276-5548

peter@brokkinc.com

Inside Front Cover, 15

Diamond Products

800-321-5336

jpalmer@diamondproducts.com

9, 43

DITEQ Corporation

816-246-5515

jmiller@diteq.com

5

Dixie Diamond–Concut Group

678-296-3747

gwolters@dixiediamond.com

29

GelMaxx

619-701-7246

info@gelmaxx.net

23

Geophysical Survey Systems, Inc. (GSSI)

603-893-1109

harmonj@geophysical.com

Inside back cover

Hilti North America

918-872-3079

corrie.brock@hilti.com

30, 31, Outside back cover

Husqvarna Construction Products

913-928-1442

cate.stratemeier@husqvarna.com

2

ICS, Blount Inc.

800-321-1240

marketing@icsdiamondtools.com

22

Lissmac Corporation

518-326-9094

sales@lissmac_corporation.com

21, 43

Merit Engineering & Equipment Company

928-771-0575

r.ferguson@meritsaws.com

59

Pentruder, distributed by ICS, Blount Inc.

800-321-1240

terry.martin@blount.com

41

Pullman Ermator

855-736-2869

info@ermatorusa.com

51

Vacuworx

918-259-3050

paulab@vacuworx.com

Cutter’s Corner SALESMAN WANTED FOR DIAMOND PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTOR Prolink Diamond Products is looking for sales representatives to market its product line. Experience in the concrete cutting industry is required. Candidates with sales background are preferred, but will consider former equipment operators. Position pays salary plus commission, with benefits. Those interested please submit your resume to paulc@ prolinkdiamond.com or call 714-630-9357 for more information.

GPR EQUIPMENT FOR SALE HILTI PS 1000 for ground penetrating radar imaging. Features three scan modes for specific applications when scanning floors, decks, slabs and balconies in structures such as tunnels, bridges and buildings. Only utilized a couple of times. Comes complete with: • Software • Two batteries • Case • Charger • Does not include monitor • For sale at $23,995. Please contact Craig at 214-984-8679 or craigcramer@me.com.

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

58 | MARCH .17


One power source. Many tools. Get more done.

CBK HF Wall Saw

3P8 HF Wire Saw Pentpak 427

CW630 HF Chain Saw

6-10 HF Wall Saw 8-20 HF Wall Saw PARTS & SYSTEMS STOCKED IN ARIZONA FOR IMMEDIATE SHIPPING.

CALL TO ORDER 800.321.1240 k ,&6 _ %ORXQW ,QF 3ULFLQJ DQG VSHFLÇŒFDWLRQV VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH

icsdiamondtools.com


Director’s Dialogue

500 Redux

PATRICK O’BRIEN Executive Director

F

or the second time in the association’s 45-year history, CSDA has passed the 500 member mark! In 2006, the association achieved this milestone for the first time, however a downturn in the economy had a major impact on associations across the globe and CSDA was unable to maintain this level of membership after 2008. Numbers have slowly crept back up, and now we are seeing a return to where membership stood before the downturn. This is a tremendous accomplishment for the association with many reasons for this success. How did CSDA regain this level and where will we go from here? The number of services, programs and member benefits added over the past decade is outstanding. Nearly 100% of these resources have come from a member or prospective member wondering if CSDA could provide help to meet their needs. The list of resources and benefits is considerable and includes safety handbooks/manual, safety/training DVDs, Toolbox Safety Tips, hands-on/classroom/ online training programs, promotional materials, websites, Concrete Openings magazine, mentor program, Best Practice documents and specifications, member profile analysis, conventions and the creation of the Next Generation group. The biggest benefit, and probably the key reason why many belong to CSDA, is networking. The personal relationships developed by members at annual conventions or quarterly meetings are considered invaluable. Time and time again, a member looking for help with a difficult job, to purchase equipment, or advice for a business decision

60 | MARCH .17

or personnel issue can phone a friend they have met through CSDA and be assured of a supportive voice. New members are absolutely amazed at the willingness of CSDA members to offer help, but this is the essence of the association and what makes CSDA unique among other associations in the construction industry. Members can get answers to questions that they could never ask a local competitor, but a member in another part of the country is more than happy to assist a fellow member. It’s great to have achieved this milestone in membership. But it begs the question: where do we go from here? Change is a constant and CSDA cannot afford to bask in the glory of 500 members. The challenge is to create new ways of identifying and developing new members while serving the changing needs of current members. Just because CSDA has developed an array of programs and services that have helped double membership since the mid-90’s, it does not mean that those services will help attract new members today so that we can reach 1,000. Albert Einstein observed that, “The significant problems we have cannot be solved at the same level of thinking with which we created them.” So if you are a CSDA member or a prospective member, we want to hear from you. With your dialogue and involvement, we can grow this association to the next level of outstanding performance and continue to expand the benefits of membership to our current and future members alike.


THE ONE TO GET IT DONE Diamond coring tool DD 250

From small anchor holes to large diameter holes in concrete with heavy rebar, the new Hilti DD 250 offers the widest application and drilling range with one motor, from 1/2” to 18”. With four gears instead of three, this tool helps ensure the right balance of speed and torque. The DD 250 also features an intuitive digital interface which guides your work from start to finish. Add to that our innovative hole starting mode for smoother starts, a run time tracker to record productivity and countless other built-in features and it is easy to see why this tool is the one to get it done. 1-800-879-8000 • www.hilti.com | 1-800-363-4459 • www.hilti.ca


NEW DUST & SLURRY MANAGEMENT BY HUSQVARNA

Husqvarna Construction Products is proud to introduce our new dust and slurry management product range. Five new product lines provide superior control of concrete dust and slurry created from cutting, drilling and grinding applications. To learn more, request a demonstration from the contact page on our website, www.husqvarnacp.com, or call customer service at 800-845-1312. 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 www.husqvarnacp.com • www.husqvarnacp.ca 2077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 4V6 • T 800-461-9589 • F 800-825-0028 • www.husqvarnacp.ca Copyright © © 2016 2017 Husqvarna Copyright Husqvarna AB AB (publ.). (publ.). All All rights rights reserved. reserved. Husqvarna Husqvarna is is aa registered registered trademark trademark of of Husqvarna Husqvarna AB AB (publ.). (publ.).


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.