A petrol cutter is something between a circular saw and a grinder with a petrol engine. The petrol cutter is capable of cutting concrete, asphalt, pipes, brick - everything that a regular saw cannot handle. Depending on the model, they cut to a depth of 95 to 400 mm; a large grinder with a 230-th disk will barely cut 95 mm. This tool is loved by builders and rescuers for its high power and independence from the mains. In five minutes it can make a perfectly smooth opening in a reinforced concrete wall without dust:
But here’s how they did it the old fashioned way using a wall chaser and a hammer drill - long, crooked, difficult:
The advantages of the tool are obvious.
In this article you will find an overview of popular models and what to look for when choosing. The main characteristics of the tool are given in the table: Table of main selection criteria
| Criterion | Options | Description |
| Cutting type | Wet cutting | During cutting, water is supplied to the cutting disc, this ensures continuous operation and gentle use of the disc. Wet cutting tools are more expensive and belong to the professional class |
| Dry cutting | There is no water supply, so the disk is subject to overheating. Unmoistened dust gets clogged into the body, which reduces the life of the tool. | |
| Cutting depth | from 95 to 400 mm. | The cutting depth of the tool should be at least 10-20% greater than the depth to which the cut needs to be made. So, to cut an opening in a wall 15 cm thick, you need a tool with a cut of at least 17 cm. |
| Engine power | Up to 6 hp (4.5 kW) | Suitable for cutting metal |
| From 6 hp | Cutting concrete, reinforced concrete, asphalt, brick | |
| Rotational speed | Up to 4200 rpm Min | Metal cutting |
| More than 4200 rpm Min | Cutting concrete, reinforced concrete, asphalt, brick | |
| Cleaning system | 2, 3 or more filters | From at least two different filters - the external filter will filter out most of the dust, while the internal filter will further purify the incoming air. The more filters, the longer the instrument will last. |
Hitachi CM75EAP – from 42,000 rub.
The cheapest tool - other manufacturers charge at least 30% more. From a technical point of view, the device turned out to be successful. There is vibration on the handle. It starts easily, there is a characteristic “clunking” sound at idle, but this is the norm for this model. Suitable for working with metal, but difficult to work with concrete. Characteristics of Hitachi CM75EAP
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 10,4 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 120 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4200 |
| Power, hp | 4,1 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 350 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 20 (there is a ring for 25.4) |
| Noise level, dB | 115 |
| Development/production | Japan / China |
How to use a gas cutter?
The first thing you need to know when working with a special-purpose tool is compliance with safety precautions. It is important to use the following protection measures:
- glasses and mask;
- headphones;
- helmet;
- clothes made of thick fabric;
- closed shoes and gloves.
It is important to first check the instrument for possible damage. The correct procedure for starting a gas cutter is as follows:
- the instrument is placed on a flat surface;
- the lever is moved to the working area;
- open the air damper;
- start the engine with a sharp movement of the starter handle;
- close the air damper halfway to idle;
- release the shutter lever and press the start button.
Rules for working with a gas cutter
For high-quality and safe use, it is important to adhere to the following recommendations:
- When performing dry cutting, care must be taken to ensure that the blade does not overheat. Costs every 2 minutes. make a stop.
- A complete and compact circular saw must have a protective cover.
- It is important to remember that the gas cutter is designed for straight cutting only.
- The edge of the saw blade should smoothly touch the work material. Movements should not be sudden or with strong pressure.
- Work begins after the tool has reached the required speed.
- The cuts are not made deep to prevent pinching of the disc.
- It is prohibited to grind products with a working disc. This will lead to cracks and destruction of the cutting edge.
- The correct position of the gas cutter is on top of the work surface.
Echo CSG-680 – from RUB 60,600.
A successful model, despite some problems with ergonomics. The device is not lightweight, and poor weight distribution “adds” a couple of kilos. From a technical point of view everything is fine:
- a simple and therefore reliable diaphragm carburetor - the gas cutter works in any position;
- automatic ignition timing system compensates for low engine power;
- no problems with belt tension - the tension system is designed for people;
Characteristics of Echo CSG-680
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 11,5 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 125 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4400 |
| Power, hp | 3 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 355 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 20 |
| Noise level, dB | 107 |
| Development/production | Japan |
Owners may find it useful - a video about setting up a carburetor:
Makita EK7650H – from RUB 49,154. rub.
Semi-professional model with wet cutting function.
A distinctive feature of the model is its four-stroke engine. This is probably the first gas cutter from Makita that does not cause any complaints. Technically, the tool is as simple as a hammer, maintenance, repairs are simple and cheap. The tool fits well in the hand, vibrations on the handle are insignificant. Comfortable to work - suitable for long periods of work. Specifications Makita EK7301
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 12 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 97 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4300 |
| Power, hp | 4 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 300 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 20 |
| Noise level, dB | 109 |
| Development/production | Japan |
Suitable for private teams involved in repairs and small construction. Makita has provided a universal trolley to use the model as a seam cutter.
The cart is comfortable and has a tank for wet cutting. Branded fasteners allow you to quickly attach the tool. But in my opinion, the price of the cart is three times too high.
What to look for when choosing
To choose a quality tool, you need to understand its technical characteristics!
When purchasing a concrete cutter, the following parameters are significant:
- Power (determines the performance of the model).
- Cutting depth (between 97 and 260 millimeters).
- The quality of the built-in air purification system (in particular, the filter system).
- The time it takes for the engine to start.
- Tool weight.
- Inclusion of systems that ensure safety during operation (durable protective casing and option to lock the disk in the event of a jam).
- The degree of vibration of the tool and the ergonomics of the handle.
The cutter is selected based on the amount of work that the master has to do. The material to be processed and the frequency of manipulations are taken into account. Petrol cutters process two types of materials – metal and concrete. To cut concrete, a tool with more power (more than 4.2 kW) is required.
Expert opinion
Kuznetsov Vasily Stepanovich
The most convenient is a light weight gas cutter with a low vibration level. It allows you to cut concrete at high speed and fits comfortably in your hand.
Additional characteristics that are also considered when viewing instruments include:
- Manufacturer (products from large manufacturers are more expensive, but are more reliable. These companies include Husqvarna, Stihl and Echo).
- Cutting method.
- Basic equipment.
- Possibility of repairing breakdowns (preferably the presence of branded repair centers).
- Quality of exhaust gas purification from toxic elements.
- Duration of warranty service.
It should be taken into account that different manufacturers are focused on their own categories of consumers. For example, Stihl and Echo are designed for use at home. They are easy to use, but have mediocre characteristics. Models from Husqvarna and Makita are suitable for professionals. Their cost is higher, but it is compensated by quality.
Wacker Neuson BTS 635 S – from RUB 65,000.
This model is suitable for cutting metal and concrete rings, but a reinforced concrete wall is difficult to use with this model.
Like all Wacker Neuson instruments, this model is the most pleasant experience to work with. The device is technically simple, the body is durable, well protected from dust and moisture - hence the long service life and service interval. Characteristics of Wacker Neuson BTS 635 S
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 11 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 122 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4240 |
| Power, hp | 5,8 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 350 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 25,4 |
| Noise level, dB | 109 |
| Development/production | Germany |
Wacker Neuson also provides a trolley for the BTS series gas cutters. Unified for wacker models, tank for wet cutting 20 liters.
The decision, again, is dubious - the price for them starts from 45,000 rubles. For high-quality cutting of seams in a concrete screed, a gas cutter on a trolley does not have enough weight - the machine periodically throws. A machine on a trolley is no substitute for a good seam cutter.
The following video shows how this model copes with a concrete slab:
Petrol cutter - firepower!
Experienced welders know that a gas cutter is an autogenous apparatus used for oxygen cutting of metals. Experienced builders know a completely different kind of unit under this name - a powerful tool in which cutting metal and more is performed by a diamond-coated disk. The device of the first is in many ways similar to an acetylene generator. The volumetric tank is equipped with a manual air pump that creates excess pressure. Under its action, fuel is supplied to the cutter - gasoline vapor and oxygen coming from different hoses. First, the metal in the cutting line is heated, then it is cut under a stream of oxygen.
The main fuel for this type of gas cutter is, as you may have guessed, gasoline, and less often kerosene. Gasoline-oxygen flames have a well-defined flame core, making the flame easier to control. Compared to acetylene devices, their use is more economically profitable, although the growing cost of products from the oil refining industry may well equalize the costs. In addition, a gas cutter consumes more oxygen, higher temperatures, and therefore the acetylene-oxygen mixture increases the speed of operation. However, a gasoline-powered device does not experience a shortage of fuel, which can be obtained at any gas station, which in turn reduces the cost of transporting cylinders with other types of gas.
Gasoline is much more convenient to use as fuel instead of kerosene, since it provides better cutting quality and a higher speed of work. In addition, such fuel forms vapors much better; the device can be operated even at fairly low temperatures down to -20 ° C, which allows it to be used in almost any weather, in any season. Acetylene and gasoline units can be combined to save calcium carbide - the metal is heated with a gas cutter, while the actual cutting is carried out with a stream of oxygen and acetylene. For this purpose, there are even dual-flame cutters that allow you to alternately use both types of flame.
Oleo-Mac 983TTA-14 – RUB 73,990.
The Oleo-Mac tool requires careful attention and is capricious in terms of fuels and lubricants.
You need to monitor the tension of the drive belt. It is difficult to get spare parts for Oleo-Mac. Regarding this motor cutter, there are no critical design flaws; the model is suitable for semi-professional use. There are slight vibrations on the handle, and, subjectively, an uncomfortable grip. Characteristics of Oleo-Mac 983TTA-14
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 11,4 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 125 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4240 |
| Power, hp | 5 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 350 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 25,4 |
| Noise level, dB | 118 |
| Development/production | Italy |
The video shows the model in action. You may notice difficulty starting the gas cutter - in cold weather this is normal for two-stroke engines.
Solo 881-14 – from RUB 81,044.
The most resourceful tool on the list, it will cope equally well with a thick-walled pipe and a reinforced concrete wall.
The advantages of the device are its lightness and good weight distribution. A technically complex device - equipped with a unique fuel mixing system, a self-cleaning filter, and a decompression system at startup. There are problems with heat removal; short breaks in work are necessary. Characteristics of Solo 881-14
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 10,5 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 125 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4450 |
| Power, hp | 5,4 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 350 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 20 (there is a ring for 25.4) |
| Noise level, dB | 98 |
| Development/production | Germany |
The Solo motor cutter is equipped with a unique iLube system, which itself prepares the fuel-oil mixture depending on the load. About this system and other goodies of the model in the video:
How concrete is cut
For cutting concrete, tools are used whose power starts from 4200 kW. The disk rotation speed is 4700 rpm and above. If the cutter does not meet these requirements, it will still get the job done on concrete. But such a unit will require more time and more effort on the part of the master.
Cutting techniques
Concrete is processed in two ways:
- Wet method
The technique involves the flow of water to the cutting site. The liquid enters through tubes that are connected to the protective casing. Water performs two important functions - cooling the disk and suppressing dust. The use of water resource reduces the time spent on the operation. The technician does not need to take frequent breaks to disperse dust. Water also increases the service life of the gas cutter.
- Dry method
The technology does not use water in the concrete processing process.
When working dry, the master wears safety glasses and a respirator for safety reasons. A break is taken every 30 seconds. The instrument needs it to avoid overheating. Dry cutting of material is allowed only for small volumes of work. The method can be combined with manually watering the cut area with water. What concrete cutting technique do you use most often?
WetDry
The question of which method to choose depends on the tool. Some models of gas cutters are designed to work dry, while others use a wet method.
Models with the wet method of cutting concrete are more expensive because they include an additional part. It is advisable to purchase such tools in situations where long-term operations with concrete are planned.
Processing rules
They rely on similar principles:
- The cut is carried out only in straight lines.
- To make the cut correctly, a cut is first applied to the material.
- Sawing is performed at maximum engine speed, which is achieved when the tool comes into contact with the material.
- The petrol cutter is held with both hands. The cutting edge must come into contact with the surface being processed smoothly - otherwise the movement of the tool will be unpredictable.
- When cutting a metal or concrete object, do not apply any pressure. The use of force leads to jamming of the disk due to overload of the device.
- The groove is cut in several approaches. The first cut should not be deep when working with large parts. A petrol cutter will not be able to cut a concrete slab straight in one go.
- When cutting, parts should be secured to avoid their unexpected displacement. Dimensional workpieces are positioned so that the likelihood of pinching the cutting attachment is minimal.
- During operation, the use of grinding discs is not allowed.
The rules for working with a gas cutter with concrete and metal are similar.
Tips for working with concrete
In most cases, concrete is cut using a manual chain saw. Outwardly, it resembles a chainsaw and is similar in its handling method. The advantage of concrete over metal is its low thermal conductivity. Concrete slabs do not heat up as quickly as metal plates under the influence of a tool.
Sawing concrete involves several subtleties:
- When working with concrete structures whose thickness is more than 10 centimeters, it is necessary to select special discs. Such materials are reinforced and are cut using special technology.
- Before starting to process the material, a “warm-up” is performed. The master makes an incision, the depth of which does not exceed 1 centimeter. This way he can determine the approximate period it will take to cut.
- In order to simplify the insertion, a wooden block is fixed along the cutting line. It plays the role of a ruler that prevents the instrument from moving to the side. This procedure is especially important when sawing large structures.
Cutting attachments
Sawing of concrete is carried out using steel discs. Their edges are coated with diamond coating, which makes it possible to work with stone. The advantage of diamond coating is protection against overheating. Craftsmen use abrasive wheels to work on metal.
The cutting attachments have the following features:
- The direction of rotation affects the wear rate of the part. Information on the rules for using nozzles is indicated by the manufacturer.
- Nozzles are divided into two groups depending on the conditions of use - for the wet or dry method.
Husqvarna K1260 – from RUB 85,390.
The power of this tool is higher than those presented in the article.
This is a professional model, supports wet cutting function. The tool is equipped with a decompression valve, so starting does not cause problems. The tool is heavy, but thanks to good weight distribution, working with it does not cause problems. There are no vibrations on the handle. Disadvantages include large dimensions and significant weight. There is a version of this model with a device for mounting on rails, called the K 1260 Rail model. Specifications Husqvarna K 1260
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 14.4 (21.5 with rail gripper) |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 145 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4700 |
| Power, hp | 7,9 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 400 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 25,4 |
| Noise level, dB | 102 |
| Development/production | Sweden |
Watch the video to see how this device copes with cutting a rail:
Scope of application
Due to their autonomy, gas cutters can be used in any place inaccessible to a power tool. Their main area of application is various open construction sites. These tools are actively used in summer cottages and country cottages, as well as in finishing industrial premises where electricity is not provided.
Petrol cutters are actively used by rescue and fire services around the world. With the help of such a tool, you can quickly enter a closed room, open the body of a car, or dismantle a blockage. Autonomous circular saws are used when performing high-rise work, repairing industrial equipment and road infrastructure. Along with gas torches, gas cutters are used when cutting steels with low carbon content.
Stihl TS-800 – from RUB 71,990.
Shtil makes high-quality chainsaws, and gas cutters are not inferior in quality.
I like the Stil for its simple design and availability of spare parts. Familiar builders who are regulars at my service speak flatteringly about this and the younger 420 model. The main problem with calms is that they are counterfeited. Characteristics of Stihl TS-800
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 12,7 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 145 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4290 |
| Power, hp | 6,8 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 400 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 20 |
| Noise level, dB | 101 |
| Development/production | Germany |
A specialist from the 220 Volt store talks about the Stihl 800 and the younger model 420:
The “eight hundredth” calm ends the rail:
Types of disks for gas cutters
Saw blades for gas cutters are divided according to the type of material being processed.
- A metal cutting disc is used to work with metal structures and products;
- The disc for cutting stone or concrete is distinguished by the presence of diamond coating;
- It is normal for a wood blade to have sharp teeth;
- For reinforced concrete.
Saw blades are also divided according to their appearance:
- Turbo disc;
- Solid;
- Segmented.
9. Husqvarna K 760 Cut-n-Break - from RUB 108,482.
The unique Husqvarna gas cutter cuts to a depth of up to 400 mm.
Suitable for builders who cut a lot of door and window openings. But the price is also high, so you have to calculate the benefits of using such a tool. But it is cheaper than using a large wall saw - such a device is more compact, and there are fewer diamond blades and therefore cheaper. As for the technical side, everything is sound, high quality and reliable. There is a wet cutting function. Specifications Husqvarna K 760 Cut-n-Break
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Weight, kg. | 11,1 |
| Cutting depth, mm. | 400 |
| Rotation speed, rpm | 4400 |
| Power, hp | 5 |
| Disc diameter, mm. | 230 |
| Diameter of seat, mm. | 20 |
| Noise level, dB | 113 |
| Development/production | Sweden |
In the following video you can see the technology for sequential cutting of a window opening using this model:
And here is the same video, but filmed live. Not so accessible, but spectacular:
Premium class petrol cutters
Such models are intended for professional use on large construction sites or when large volumes of work are involved. The cost starts from 80,000 rubles, so they are unlikely to be affordable for the average budget buyer.
Hilti DSH 900
This option has a higher cost. However, it does not always correspond to the quality of the product. Hilti is an overall great tool maker. However, they are not always successful with gas cutters. Of course, the performance of the device is excellent and the power is quite good. The tool also has an engine cleaning function. But still this is all at a basic level. If this device were at least 1.5 times cheaper, we would definitely place it in first place, however, in our opinion, the price of a gas cutter does not exactly correspond to its internal characteristics.
Price: 90,000–95,000 rubles.
Hilti DSH 900
pros
- good motor protection from dust and moisture;
- comfortable handle.
Minuses
- there are problems with the piston system;
- Often the belt is eaten due to dust (a change is needed);
- high price.
Petrol cutter Hilti DSH 900
Husqvarna K1260
In our rating, this tool has the highest power (as much as 7.9 horsepower!!!). This feature helps him make cuts of 145 mm using discs with a diameter of 30 cm. Starting the gas cutter is very easy thanks to a special valve. Despite the very convenient weight distribution, the device still has enormous weight and large dimensions, which will become a hindrance when working in a small apartment.
Price: 98,000–105,000 rubles.
Husqvarna K1260
pros
- high productivity, excellent power;
- deep cuts;
- compatible with large disks.
Minuses
- considerable weight 14.5 kg (with additional accessories 21.5 kg);
- high cost.
Gasoline cutter Husqvarna K1260
Husqvarna K 760
A model that is actively used for cutting holes for doors or windows. It copes with any type of material and can easily replace a wall saw. This model works with discs with a diameter of only 230 mm. However, despite this, it makes the deepest cuts of 400 mm! This is a record in our ranking. Despite its power, efficiency and performance, the gas cutter is light in weight. There is only one reason to find fault with this model – high cost.
Price: 120,000–130,000 rubles.
Husqvarna K 760
pros
- deep cut;
- high performance with 5 horsepower engine;
- excellent work with materials of any strength;
- high-quality body construction.
Minuses
- the only negative is the high price.
Petrol cutter Husqvarna K 760
