march 2011 concrete openings
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w w w. c s d a . o r g
cutting and demolition at the pinnacle, london
californian water treatment works cut
underwater cutting at missouri lake
A U G U S T. 0 7M A R C H . 1 1
The sky is the Limit for cutting contractors
Project runway
concrete openings | 1www.csDA.org
President’s Page
jim dvoratchekCSDA President
h ow are you managing the “new normal?” this question came
to mind recently after i read an article in a construction pub-
lication. After 30 years in this industry, i have experienced the
challenges faced by companies in both good and tough times, but the
past couple of years have been unlike anything i have faced before.
Like many of you, i have had to go back to the very core of my busi-
ness, retrain myself and others in the company, modify the company’s
mission and challenge the established paradigm of what is expected in
return for our efforts. Being part of an association like csDA can help
any business manage this new normal.
one contributor to the article i read commented that, “if you don’t
change, you’re out of business.” this article prompted me to ask myself
several questions. what are these changes? How do i make these changes
efficiently? what are my customer’s expectations in this new market place?
How do i set my company apart from competitors? How do i identify the
core work that will provide the required profitability for the company?
what new equipment do i invest in and when? these, and many other
questions, are ones that i and many other contractors must try to answer
and implement.
the good news is that many national forecasters have indicated things
have stabilized and, in several sectors, will be improving in 2011. the U.s.
economy has dropped significantly from where it once was, but some
economists say that the country is close to returning to a more healthy
position. this is encouraging news, but, depending on your regional or
local economy and industry, you may be better or worse off.
the resources that i believe are vital to help you find your new
normal are already available through csDA. the association has industry-
specific technical, risk management, safety, estimating and operational
documentation and training available to all. csDA has focused on training
for many years, recognizing the value of training for its members. in
addition, plans are underway to expand this training into other areas to
help members with maintenance, administration and marketing.
At a time when you must try to set your business apart from competitors
and prove to customers that you are the best solution for their specialty
cutting work, you need a resource that can help your business do both. the
on-line, classroom and hands-on training sessions offered by csDA, both
now and in the near future, are always available. the vast knowledge and
experience offered by the membership is available at seasonal meetings
and annual conventions with networking, presentations and roundtables.
All it takes is to participate in csDA and be willing to engage members
in conversation.
in addition, a new csDA company certification program has been
launched. this program consists of an independent consultant reviewing
your business and certifying your company’s ability to operate in a
professional, safe and financially-sound manner. this process is similar to
the pre-qualification required by many governmental specifiers and project
managers. A presentation and workshop on this new program will take
place at the csDA convention on thursday, March 10.
As i begin my term as csDA president, i look forward to the challenges
set. one of my goals is to work with the members of the csDA Board to
provide a viable resource for this industry of cutting professionals. i invite
you to join csDA at one, or all, of its future functions.
We understand what contractors like George Cramer go through every day. So every day, we push ourselves to perfect our tools and technology to makea rough, dirty job a little easier and you even more effective.
©2011 ICS | Blount Inc. All rights reserved. 1110. 695F4 pictured.ICS | Blount Inc. · 4909 SE International Way · Portland, OR 97222 USA · Ph 800.321.1240 · Fax 503.653.4393
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”– George Cramer, President, Bedrock Concrete Cutting Inc.
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concrete openings | 3www.csDA.org
CSDA OFFICERS
president, Doug walker Atlantic concrete cutting, inc.
dwalker@atlanticconcretecutting.com
Vice president, Jim Dvoratchek Hard rock concrete cutters, inc.
jimd@hardrockconcretecutters.com
secretary/treasurer, Judith o’Day terra Diamond industrial
joday@terradiamond.com
past president, tom stowell norton pro Diamond
thomas.stowell@att.net
executive Director, patrick o’Brien concrete sawing & Drilling Association
pat@csda.org
CSDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS (terms expiring 2011)
roger Allen Diamond tools technology
roger@diamondtoolstechnology.com
Larry Liddle Diamond products Limited
lliddle@diamondproducts.com
Mike orzechowski DiteQ corporation mikeo@diteq.com
John van Dyk canadian cutting & coring Ltd.
info@concretecutting.ca
Kellie Vazquez Holes incorporated
kvazquez@holesinc.com
Kevin warnecke ics, Blount inc.
kwarnecke@icsbestway.com
CSDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS (terms expiring in 2012)
Kevin Baron western saw, inc.
kevinb@westernsaw.com
tim Beckman cutting edge services corporation
beckman@cuttingedgeservices.com
steve garrison Hilti, inc.
steve.garrison@hilti.com
Donna Harris concrete renovation, inc. donna.cri@sbcglobal.net
ron rapper Husqvarna construction products
ron.rapper@husqvarna.com
Jack sondergard central concrete cutting, inc. jacksondergard@sprynet.com
t h e o f f i c i a l m a g a z i n e o f t h e c o n c r e t e s a w i n g & d r i l l i n g a s s o c i a t i o n
c o n c r e t e c a s e s
6
16
20
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The Purity of Concrete CuttingCSDA Member Makes it Crystal Clear
The Truman ShowAll Eyes on Contractor’s Wire Saw During Pillar Removal
Project RunwayThe Sky is the Limit for Cutting Contractors
Towering Over LondonConcrete Cutting Reaches its Pinnacle
4 | MArcH.11
COnCRETE OpEnIngS MAgAzInE
official Magazine of the concrete sawing & Drilling Association
Volume 20, 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 13577 Feather sound Drive, suite 560
clearwater, FL 33762 tel: 727-577-5004 Fax: 727-577-5012
www.csDA.org
Magazines, newspapers and private individuals are welcome to reproduce, in whole or part, articles published herein
provided that acknowledgements are made in the following manner: “reprinted courtesy of the concrete sawing & Drilling
Association, Concrete Openings magazine, issue Date.” no alterations should be made in the text of any article.
puBlIShER
patrick o’Brien
EDITOR
cherryl o’Brien
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
russell Hitchen
COnCRETE CASE COnTRIBuTORS
John robinson rob white
tracy campbell tauna prince
neil wood
EDITORIAl REvIEw COMMITTEE
skip Aston rod newton
pat stepanski
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.
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.
c o n t e n t s
1 President’s Page
12 World of Concrete 2011
26 The Business of Business Leaders Make Selling a Priority
28 Tech Talk Diamond Chain Technology™: Proper Care and Maintenance of Chains, Guidebars and Sprockets
38 Core Health Too Sick to Work?
40 What is Drillers Mud?
42 Safety Counts Addressing Distracted Driving
43 OSHA / CSDA Alliance Latest
46 Insurance Corner Negligent Entrustment
50 Industry Bits
58 Certified Operator Companies
60 Calendar
61 New Members
64 Director’s Dialogue
cover Photo: the Bay runway at JFK Airport, new York.
42
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INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW BROKK 160.
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6 | MArcH.11
John F. Kennedy airport is one of the busiest airports in america. annually, it handles
48 million passengers and is the leading freight gateway to the country in terms of
shipment value. the 14,572-foot-long Bay runway is the most widely-used route in and
out of JFK. When work to resurface the runway began in July 2009, one csDa member was
“flight-ready” to start the project’s concrete and asphalt cutting work several months later.
The Sky is the limit for Cutting Contractors
concrete cutting the 14,572-foot-long Bay runway at JFK Airport.
concrete openings | 7www.csDA.org
C O n C R E T E C A S E S
The Sky is the limit for Cutting Contractors
the Bay runway is the longest runway at
JFK Airport and is one of only three in the U.s.
long enough to land a nAsA space shuttle. the
runway was last resurfaced in 1993, when it
was overlaid with asphalt. the existing surface
was now approaching the end of its lifespan,
so the port Authority of new York and new
Jersey developed a $348.1 million project to
resurface the runway in order to increase the
utility and efficiency of the runway and decrease
the maintenance costs. in addition, high-speed
aircraft exit and entrance taxiways were part of
the port Authority’s delay-reduction program
so that planes could take off and land on the
runway faster than ever before, decreasing the
amount of aircraft queuing. these improvements
were estimated to reduce flight delays by 10,500
hours a year.
A concrete surface was deemed to be a
suitable replacement for the existing asphalt
surface, as a concrete runway would last 10 to
15 years longer than one covered with asphalt.
this choice of surface would also provide the
port Authority with estimated cost savings of
$500 million in maintenance and repairs over
its approximate 40-year lifespan.
the new concrete surface is expected to last around 40 years.
An aerial view of JFK Airport, with Bay runway highlighted.
8 | MArcH.11
the general contractor for the work,
tutor perini corporation of sylmar, california,
began searching for a contractor that could
take on a scope of work that included green
cutting 141,000 feet of expansion joints to a
depth of 7 inches, 265,524 feet of 2-inch-deep
joint widening from 0.5 to 0.625 inches wide,
installation of 265,524 feet of a 1-inch cold
compression neoprene seal and saw cutting
42,714 feet of 0.5-inch-wide by 1-inch-deep
asphalt butt joints around the perimeter of
the concrete slabs. Further sealing, together
with 18 to 23 inch-deep concrete slab sawing
for slab replacement, was also required. in
February 2010, tutor perini chose csDA
member Atlantic concrete cutting of Mount
Holly, new Jersey, to work on the Bay runway.
“our greatest challenge was to keep
up with a very fast-paced operation and
schedule,” said rich cannon, project manager
for Atlantic, referring to the four-month
period in which the majority of work was to
be completed. the runway was to be closed
between March and June of 2010 so the
majority of the resurfacing work could be
completed. During this period, 10,925 feet
of runway was to be completed. then, two
additional phases would be completed to
resurface the remaining 3,647 feet after the
runway reopened in november 2010.
Atlantic’s first task was to create the
7-inch-deep expansion joints in the green
concrete. Just 12 hours after the first sections
of the new concrete runway surface had
been poured, Atlantic arrived on the job
site and got to work. it took two operators,
working staggered shifts and equipped with
a 66-horsepower Husqvarna slab saw with a
24-inch-diameter blade, close to 18 weeks to
complete the required 141,000 feet of cutting.
this equaled 1,119 feet of cutting on each of
the 126 days the general contractor poured
the concrete.
the joint widening aspects of the job
included power washing and vacuuming
slurry and debris. Vacuuming and sweeping
was performed on-site using an elgin geoVac®
truck. Atlantic collected, contained and
disposed of approximately 60,000 gallons
of slurry and waste water over the course of
the project. cutting of the 265,524 feet to
A total of 264,524 feet of 2-inch-deep joint-widening cuts were made.
concrete openings | 9www.csDA.org
C O n C R E T E C A S E S
widen the joints was also completed using
the Husqvarna saw, this time with 14-inch-
blades. this took two operators 43 days to
complete, working day and night shifts and
accompanied by two laborers to wash the
surface and vacuum the slurry.
the 1-inch cold compression neoprene seal
installation required sandblasting the joints
and required all operators to wear respirators
for safety. An installation machine from D.s.
Brown and reel trailer were then employed
to place the neoprene. An automatic installer
compressor, or “tucker,” was purchased
specifically for the job, with a rental unit on
standby, while a dedicated reel trailer was
also purchased to lay the neoprene from
the 2,000-foot rolls supplied. First, the joints
were sandblasted by two operators. one
operator was then responsible for feeding the
neoprene into the machine, where it was fed
into compression wheels and lube adhesive
dispensed onto it. the compressed neoprene
continued to a discharge blade and was then
tucked into the joint.
the 265,524 feet of sealing on the runway
took 31 days. nancy L. walker, president
and owner of Atlantic concrete cutting,
believes that proper care and maintenance
of the neoprene tucker went a long way in
making the job a success. “our crews went to
great lengths to keep the new tucker clean,
maintained and operational,” she said. “we
took care of it, and it took care of us.”
the saw cutting of the 0.5-inch-wide butt
joints took around five weeks to complete.
Atlantic cut 42,714 feet of asphalt to a depth
of 1 inch around the perimeter of the concrete
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COMpAny pROFIlE
atlantic concrete cutting, Inc. has been in
business since 1991 and is based in Mount
Holly, new Jersey. support operations are
located in totowa, new Jersey and spring
city, Pennsylvania. a csDa member for 20
years, the company has 22 operators and
31 trucks, and offers services including
core drilling, wall sawing, wire sawing, flat
sawing, curb sawing, sawing and sealing,
highway diamond grinding, sawcut grooving,
grinding and polishing, selective demolition
and ground penetrating radar.
RESOuRCES
general Contractor:
tutor Perini corporation
Sawing and Drilling Contractor:
atlantic concrete cutting, Inc.
Mount Holly, new Jersey
phone: 609-261-7200
Email: rcannon@atlanticconcretecutting.com
website: www.atlanticconcretecutting.com
Methods used: slab sawing, Joint sealing
slabs, which were then sealed. Atlantic’s dry
cut vacuum system was used for this portion of
the work. the company also performed some
diamond grinding work at the airport.
safety issues at such a high-profile job
location were thoroughly covered. Atlantic
concrete cutting conducted daily job briefings
at its onsite trailer prior to the start of work.
All necessary items of personal protective
equipment were used, where applicable. the
cutting contractor has the advantage of having
several csDA certified operators on its staff,
so this level of skill and experience proved to
be helpful when working at an airport like JFK.
the port Authority, Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), airlines and contractors
all worked diligently together to prevent
delays during the four-month construction
period. All of the materials for the project
were pre-ordered and stored at JFK with two
concrete plants constructed on-site to help
speed up the work. contractors even built
a road designated solely for construction
vehicles.
to carry out this job, Atlantic concrete
cutting used 57-horsepower Mercury slab saws
from sanders saws/Multiquip and a Husqvarna
slab saw with 14- and 24-inch-diameter
blades. the team from Atlantic consisted of
superintendent tom Mihutz and operators
Brandon Bird, eric Bottali, rob chamberlain,
skip Dell, Dean grim, eddie Mogrovejo and
shawn wood. the cutting contractor also
received regular support from tutor perini
during the project, enabling the work to
progress smoothly through to completion.
cannon was pleased with his team’s
success, “not only did we keep up, but we
actually were able to stay ahead of schedule.
i’m extremely proud of the crew. they got
the job done.”
on november 12, 2010, Atlantic completed
all of the scheduled cutting work on the Bay
runway. construction for the project took
approximately two years and used enough
concrete to fill the entire new Meadowlands
stadium, home of the new York Jets and new
York giants nFL football teams, to a height of
64 feet. the new concrete surface is expected
to last 40 years, 27 years longer than the
previous surface, and will produce estimated
long-term savings of $500 million.
the Bay runway project provided 2,500
jobs, including direct construction work,
asphalt and concrete production, running
aeronautical lighting and food services. A
total of $15 million was obtained through
the American recovery and reinvestment
Act, with the rest funded by the FAA and the
port Authority. everyone at Atlantic concrete
cutting appreciated the opportunity to be part
of this important rebuilding effort, and wishes
to thank both the port Authority of new York
and new Jersey and tutor perini construction
for the work.
the contractor cut 141,000 feet of 7-inch-deep expansion joints.A 1-inch neoprene seal was installed after the joints were cleaned.
1 2 | MArcH.11
Now iN its 37th year, the world of concrete (woc) trade
show and exhibition was held in Las Vegas during January
2011. this year’s trade show and seminars brought close
to 49,000 industry professionals to the Las Vegas convention center
between January 17th and 21st and featured over 1,200 indoor and
outdoor exhibits in more than a half-million square feet of show space.
these numbers included a healthy representation from the concrete
sawing and Drilling Association (csDA).
Aside from the 39 exhibit booths occupied by the association and its
manufacturer, distributor and affiliate members, csDA also conducted
a wall sawing and Drilling 101 class where students worked with the
association’s instructors to increase their knowledge of these disciplines.
in addition, a host of contractor members were at woc to attend csDA
Board and next generation meetings. For those readers of Concrete
Openings who could not make the show, here are some of the highlights.
Diamond award Ceremonythe international Association of concrete Drillers and sawers
(iAcDs) announced the winners of the Diamond Award, an international
competition for excellence and innovation in the field of concrete
cutting. the winners were presented with their awards at a press
conference at the convention center on the opening day of woc 2011
in front of representatives from several iAcDs member associations
and members of the industry press. Following opening comments
from current iAcDs president peter white of the British Drilling and
sawing Association, the awards were introduced and presented by csDA
executive Director and iAcDs past president patrick o’Brien.
the 3rd place award was won by csDA member D-Drill Master
Drillers Ltd. of the United Kingdom for the contractor’s care and
precision in removing a 100-year-old tile mural with a wire saw during
a hospital renovation. A custom-made 110-volt wire saw was engineered
to complete the job that had strict noise and vibration tolerances. “it’s
fantastic to be recognized,” said Julie white, owner of D-Drill. “we’re
honored to have been awarded for what was a relatively small but
intricate job. the most fulfilling aspect is that the job was completed by
world of Concrete 2011New Products, New approaches, New optimism
Diamond Award winners (from left to right): Julie white of D-Drill, iAcDs president peter white, rodolfo spessato representing tondin srl and Victorria garcia de la torre Acosta of thayer sl.
concrete openings | 1 3www.csDA.org
operators who have progressed through the company’s apprenticeship
scheme,” she added.
taking 2nd place was thayr sl of spain, for its work on a wharf
expansion project at the port of Huelva in the southeast region of the
country. the cutting work was performed underwater using diamond
wire sawing techniques to cut and remove 26 reinforced concrete
pilings that were 4 feet in diameter. “it was difficult to determine the
underwater cutting depth—a real challenge—so we are very satisfied
with winning our first Diamond Award,” said Victorria garcia de la
torre Acosta of thayr sl, who was present with Fabian Alcudia Aranda
to receive the 2nd place award.
the 1st place award was presented to another csDA member and
2nd place winner from the 2009 competition, tondin srl, of italy. the
company performed outstanding work in the tunnels of a rail system
that connects Bologna to Florence. the project involved large quantities
of concrete cutting over a two-year period to increase safety in the
tunnel system. the cutting contractor used a great deal of innovation
to perform some of the work, using mechanical arms mounted to the
front of an excavation vehicle with wall saw and chain saw attachments
to cut the tunnel walls. while tiziano tondin could not make the trip
to Las Vegas, he was represented by rodolfo spessato who received
the award on his behalf. “Mr. tondin did not know he had won 1st
place, so i am sure he will be very pleased when i contact him,” said
spessato. “it was a very tough project for the company that took a long
time and a great deal of innovation to complete.”
the Diamond Award competition allows concrete sawing and
drilling industry professionals to present their most complex and
innovative projects. entries were judged on the degree of difficulty,
planning, complexity, innovation and the quality of the work produced
to ensure project success. Following a detailed review of each entry, the
judging panel representing members of various country-wide sawing
and drilling associations, chose the winning projects. the winners were
notified and awarded complimentary flights by iAcDs to Las Vegas
and complimentary accommodations by Hanley wood, the sponsor of
world of concrete. More details on the winning entries can be found
by visiting www.iacds.org and clicking on the Diamond Award banner.
iAcDs is an international trade association of sawing and drilling
associations from the concrete construction and renovation industry.
the organization was formed in 1995 and is composed of associations
from Australia, Austria, germany, Japan, spain, sweden, switzerland,
the U.K. and the U.s. the Diamond Award began in 2000 in germany
and award ceremonies are rotated around the globe in conjunction
with major exhibitions. the next Diamond Award ceremony is scheduled
to take place in 2013 during the bauma exhibition in Munich, germany.
CsDa eventsAs a woc cosponsor, csDA had a number of planned events and
activities for the 2011 show, from exhibits and contests to meetings and
training. csDA moved to a bigger booth in the central Hall and, for the
fifth straight year, shared its booth space with the occupational safety
and Health Administration (osHA). As part of its Alliance program,
csDA and osHA continue to raise awareness of work-related hazards
and encourage companies to implement tight safety procedures when
working in the field or in the shop. examples of Best practice documents
produced by the Alliance program were available at the booth, both
in english and spanish, while representatives from both organizations
were on hand to inform and endorse safety and health regulations and
documentation.
training is a key element to the success of any business in the concrete
cutting industry. Following the positive results from training provided
at the 2010 woc, csDA held a wall sawing and Drilling 101 class at this
year’s show. registered students took part in this four-day class, which
consisted of classroom sessions and hands-on training at the exhibit
booths of several manufacturer members. this gave the students the
opportunity to increase their knowledge and skill by learning from
experts in the field. in addition, class sessions were structured so that
there was adequate time for students to explore the show. training
continues to be a focus for woc organizers, and it is hoped that the
csDA classes can be developed and expanded in the future to be one of
the main certification classes available at this event.
in addition to the exhibit booth and training class, csDA held a Board
meeting and a next generation meeting at woc. Both meetings were
open to all and well-attended. the association’s accomplishments for
2010 were discussed at the Board meeting while the next generation
group discussed its plans for the year ahead, and beyond. the group held
its first meeting at the 2010 show and the number of group members is
growing. “it is great to have such an interest in the group, and woc is
an ideal venue to bring new and existing members together,” said erin
o’Brien, next generation representative. “we have some events planned
for the csDA convention and tech Fair in March and an exciting project
in the works for the association’s 40th anniversary in 2012,” she added.
the goal of the group is to increase association participation by younger
industry professionals.
For more information about csDA training classes or the next
generation group, visit www.csda.org, call 727-577-5004 or email
info@csda.org.
New Productsof course, the main draw for attendees of any world of concrete
show is the new products and services on display. industry professionals
are continually looking for new technologies and innovations that
will help their businesses succeed. over the past 12 months, some
manufacturers have focused on developing new tools and equipment
wall sawing and Drilling 101 class at woc.
1 4 | MArcH.11
while others have honed their existing offerings
to increase efficiency of both the equipment and
the operator.
the number of compact demolition robots
on the market continues to increase. Brokk
inc. displayed its all-new Brokk 160 demolition
robot at the show. this remote control model
can produce over 410 joules of hitting power
with a 18.5-kilowatt motor output and has
a 14.5-foot reach. Husqvarna construction
products added to its range of demolition
robots with the release of the DXr 140. this is
the smallest model produced by the company
so far, and has a 14.75- or 20.12-horsepower
motor with a reach up to 12 feet, including
the breaker. the DXr 140 is also capable
of performing an unobstructed 360-degree
rotation and can be adjusted to 30 inches in width to fit through
standard doorways. new csDA distributor member company wrench
was also at the show to help showcase the F16 demolition robot from
stanley LaBounty. the F16 weighs in at 3,417 pounds, has a 16.4-foot
telescopic boom and includes a proprietary hydraulic circuit that can
operate over 100 hydraulic hand tools.
concrete sawing equipment continues to be introduced to help
cutting contractors complete jobs quicker, safer and more efficiently. the
updated cc4100 slab saw from Diamond products now has a 3-speed
gearbox, can achieve over 14 inches of cutting depth with a 36-inch-
diameter blade and has a differential lock that provides positive drive
to the rear wheels for increased traction. gDM was at the show to
exhibit its recently-released Handicut 21 hydraulic handsaw, which
weighs 26 pounds and is available in 7 or 15 gallons per minute motor
displacements. Hilti also had some new concrete sawing products to
exhibit for the professional diamond cutter, including the DsH 700 and
900 handheld gas saws, but all eyes were on the company’s Ds-Bg 80
track-mounted wall saw and its two new wire saws that will be released
later in the year. the all-new 695gc diamond chain saw was shown at
the ics booth. complete with a 6.4-horsepower motor, the saw can cut
up to 16 inches deep and uses the company’s Force4tM technology.
there was no shortage of new core drills and bits at woc either.
DiteQ showcased its new AriX dry bits, which range from 1.5 to 6 inches
in diameter and can cut soft to medium concrete without the use of
water. the company also displayed new handheld rH-1531 and rH-1532
core drills from shibuya. these drills come equipped with a 3-speed,
15-amp motor, weigh only 15 pounds and have a 4-inch-diameter bit
capacity when handheld that can increase to 6.5 inches in diameter when
mounted. Also in the outdoor exhibit area, expert equipment introduced
the Vortex 625 core drill from cardi. this 6-speed drill has a 120-volt,
25-amp motor and can produce 1,100 rpm under load. pentruder also
had new Model MDU 30U core drills at the show. these electrical hi-cycle
models feature brushless motors and can be powered from generators
that range from 60 to 400 hertz.
not all csDA member companies at the show, however, dealt with
the cutting or breaking of concrete. several exhibitors were at the trade
show to highlight how their products can assist cutting contractors with
their projects, including those that manufacture ground penetrating
radar (gpr) equipment. geophysical survey systems, inc. exhibited its
popular structurescan Mini, MALA geoscience displayed the features
of its cX11 concrete imaging system, James instruments showcased
the r-Meter Mk iii and sensors & software gave demonstrations of its
recently launched eKKo_project software package. there is an increased
need for grp and concrete scanning and imaging in the industry, and
these manufacturers continue to develop their software and equipment
to obtain accurate results from greater depths.
other exhibitors like gölz and Liebherr concrete technology were
present to show attendees how their products can process slurry and
wastewater produced by concrete cutting. gölz manufactures slurry
filter presses that allow for slurry disposal within epA regulations.
polypropylene plates are pressed together by an air-actuated hydraulic
press. slurry is pumped though the press and the solids are filtered out
to form a semi-dry cake while the water can be reused or safely disposed
of. Liebherr’s Lrs 606 water reclamation unit collects concrete grit and
chips from slurry and adjusts the pH level of the remaining water so
that it can be reused.
with all the new products and industry advancements exhibited
at woc 2011, it is easy to see why many industry professionals remain
optimistic for the future. sales representatives from manufacturer
and distributor companies were keen to reinforce the message that
although attendance could have been higher, the company decision-
makers continue to attend at a healthy level and sales from the show
have been more than encouraging. if new equipment is being bought,
then work is being done. training programs and seminars brought in
good numbers once again, meaning that many companies are preparing
for busier times in the future by investing in well-trained and educated
employees. while new products and new approaches are introduced,
a new optimism runs through the industry.
the csDA next generation group meeting.
reView AnD coMMent on tHis ArticLe At: www.CoNCreteoPeNiNgs.Com/ForUm.CFm
concrete openings | 1 5www.csDA.org
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1 6 | MArcH.11photo courtesy of the U.s. naval Academy
a major construction project is taking
place in the heart of London’s financial
district. Anticipated for completion
in late 2012, The Pinnacle, also known as The
Bishopsgate Tower, will stand as the second-tallest
building not only in the United Kingdom but also
the entire European Union. In order for the new
tower to take shape, however, an existing building
had to be demolished on the proposed site. The
building had several levels of concrete floor slabs
and reinforced piles that required cutting and
removal before work on the new construction
could begin.
Concrete Cutting reaches its Pinnacle
iMAge coUrtesy oF cityscApe DigitAL, LtD.
concrete openings | 1 7www.csDA.org
C o N C r e t e C a s e s
the 288-meter- (945-foot) tall, 63-story
tower was designed by architects at Kohn
pedersen Fox of new york. the pinnacle was
originally proposed to stand at 307 meters (1,007
feet) but had to be scaled back due to concerns
from the U.K.’s civil Aviation Authority.
the existing building was demolished to
ground level by Keltbray Limited of esher,
england, with three basement levels retained
and new piles installed through the basement
slabs to support the new structure. Keltbray
then needed to form 140 octagonal and 150
circular openings, ranging from 1.4 meters
(4.6 feet) to 3.1 meters (10.2 feet) in diameter,
through four levels of reinforced concrete floor
slabs from the ground floor to the basement
raft slab. this would allow for the installation
of 2.4-meter- (8-foot) diameter piles. the floor
slabs were 600 millimeters (23.6 inches) thick
while the raft slab varied in thickness from 3
meters (9.8 feet) to 6 meters (19.7 feet).
in addition, there were several concrete
floors and walls of the remaining structure
that required cutting. some of these walls
adjoined neighboring properties, so tight
restrictions on noise and vibration were put
in place to protect the structural integrity of
all buildings and keep the disruption of nearby
occupants to a minimum. in order to adhere
to these restrictions, Keltbray had to find a
specialist concrete cutting and controlled
demolition company that could complete this
£2.25 million ($3.5 million) job as quickly and
quietly as possible. csDA member Kilnbridge
construction services, Ltd of London, was
given the nod to perform the cutting work.
Kilnbridge began work by creating the 140
octagonal openings on the three upper basement
levels. these openings would range in size from
1.5 meters (4.9 feet) to 3.1 meters (10.2 feet)
in diameter. the operators from Kilnbridge
decided that a Ds-ws 15 wire saw from Hilti
would be the best choice to form the openings,
as the techniques associated with this type of
saw produced much lower levels of noise and
vibration than traditional demolition methods,
plus this sawing technique was faster and created
a smoother cut surface than other techniques.
octagonal openings were created through five concrete floor slabs.
the renovation of the existing structure will enable construction of the pinnacle.
iMA
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1 8 | MArcH.11
the wire saw setup consisted of a series
of eight 50-millimeter- (2-inch) diameter
holes positioned around the cutting area
to produce the eight cuts through the
600-millimeter- (23.6-inch) thick floor
slabs, after which the position and angle
of the pulleys were adjusted to change the
direction of the cut and form an octagonal
shape. it took two days to cut free each of
the 140 octagonal concrete sections. the
isolated 2-ton sections were then removed
Regular readers of Concrete Openings
may remember another U.K.-based story
from our December 2009 issue about
core drilling and sampling at The London
Shard site. Located approximately one
mile south of The Pinnacle, The Shard
will be the tallest building in the country
when completed around six months earlier
than The Pinnacle. The Shard will stand
310 meters (1,016 feet) tall when finished,
however because the building is located on
the South Bank of the River Thames it is
not technically in the City of London, and
therefore not the tallest building in the city.
The Pinnacle gets to claim this accolade.
by a 30-ton crane to the ground level of the
building. in total, it took seven months to
complete the required number of openings
to the specified shape.
to create the 150 circular openings at the
site of the pinnacle, Kilnbridge switched from
using a wire saw to a stitch cutting technique
using 107-millimeter-diameter (4.2-inch) core
drills with 100-millimeter- (4-inch) diameter
bits. this was because the underside of the
raft slab was inaccessible to run diamond wire
around or through. in addition, the thickness
of this basement slab varied from 3 meters (9.8
feet) to 6 meters (19.7 feet).
operators core drilled holes in a circular
pattern to create openings 1.4 meters (4.6
feet) to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet). the number of
holes required to create the openings ranged
from 50 for the smaller openings to 80 for
the largest. Kilnbridge completed stitch cuts
on the circumference of each opening, before
a 3-phase Brokk 330 demolition robot was
track-mounted wall sawing was used to renovate adjoining walls.
stitch drilling created 150 circular openings in the basement raft slab.
concrete openings | 1 9www.csDA.org
C o N C r e t e C a s e s
reView AnD coMMent on tHis ArticLe At: www.CoNCreteoPeNiNgs.Com/ForUm.CFm
ComPaNy ProFile
Kilnbridge Construction Services,
Ltd has been a member of CSDA for
10 years. Based in London, England,
the concrete cutting and controlled
demolition division of the company has
100 employees and 50 trucks. Kilnbridge
offers services that include core drilling,
slab sawing, wall sawing, hand sawing,
wire sawing and selective demolition.
resoUrCes
general Contractor:
Keltbray Limited
sawing and Drilling Contractor:
Kilnbridge Construction Services, Ltd.
London, England
Phone: 44-207 511 1888
email: patricia.mcenroe@kilnbridge.com
website: www. kilnbridge.com
methods Used: Core Drilling, Wall
Sawing, Wire Sawing, Selective
Demolition
used to break out the concrete to form
the opening. this part of the work took an
additional five hours per opening. the team
from Kilnbridge spent five months in total
creating the 150 circular openings.
the creation of slurry was closely
monitored and Kilnbridge took steps to
make sure that the slurry formed from cutting
the concrete was controlled and contained
appropriately. while operators used core
drills and a wire saw to make the specified
openings, settlement tanks were in place to
prevent slurry from spilling out from the work
area and into the building’s drainage system.
Approximately 190,000 liters (50,193 gallons)
of slurry was collected over the course of the
cutting work.
in addition to the creation of the octago-
nal and circular openings, track-mounted wall
saws from Hilti were utilized to perform cuts
to walls adjoined to neighboring buildings.
this cutting work consisted of sawing separa-
tion walls and took four weeks to complete.
the use of diamond tools allowed Kilnbridge
construction services to complete a large
amount of concrete cutting with speed and
safety while staying within the recommended
levels of noise and vibration. operators
worked in shifts on a 24-hour, seven-days-a-
week schedule to meet the strict time scale
set by the general contractor.
Health and safety played an important
part while working at such a high-profile loca-
tion, and Kilnbridge was well prepared. the
company operates an integrated Management
system (for health, safety, quality and environ-
ment) accredited to U.K. standards. Kilnbridge
ensures that its employees have the neces-
sary skills and competence through instruc-
tion, information, training and supervision. All
operators have passed the U.K. construction
skills certification scheme and hold trade-
specific national Vocational Qualifications.
“we recognize that the quality of our service
is how we will be judged, from our very first
interface with our clients, the quality of our
design input and submission, delivery on site,
through to completion and handover of our
works,” says Dermot McDermott, managing
director of Kilnbridge.
to help the new building reach its pinnacle,
Kilnbridge used a Ds-ws 15 wire saw from Hilti
to create octagonal openings in floor slabs and
107-millimeter-diameter (4.2-inch) core drills
to stitch cut circular openings in the basement
raft slab. in addition, a Brokk 330 was used
to break concrete from the raft slab and Hilti
track-mounted wall saws cut various concrete
sections free from adjoining walls.
in total, 290 openings were created at
the job site over a period of one year, which
resulted in around 600 tons of concrete cut
and removed from the remaining levels of the
building. By using diamond tools and organiz-
ing an aggressive work schedule, Kilnbridge
was able to complete the concrete cutting
work on time and within the specified bud-
get. the Drilling and sawing Association has
confirmed that this is the U.K.’s largest ever
drilling contract.
“Kilnbridge undertook a complex scheme
of concrete cutting, drilling and sawing to
effectively cut and sever the heavily-reinforced
concrete structure to facilitate the most
effective and environmentally acceptable
demolition process on both the superstructure
and substructure phases of the works,” said
Andy Mcclaffertey, project director for
Keltbray Limited. “the works were in a city
center building that had a lot of logistical
challenges, but Kilnbridge persisted and
overcame these challenges without fail.”Demolition robots broke out the concrete from the raft slab.
2 0 | MArcH.11
The Purity of Concrete Cutting
CsDa member makes it Crystal Clear
the contractor cut and removed 36 concrete troughs measuring 25 feet long.
concrete openings | 2 1www.csDA.org
the Henry c. garnett water purification
plant was built to treat 38 million gallons of
water per day. in 1971, a geographic area
was defined with the aim of providing a
supplemental drinking water supply for the
metropolitan area of Bakersfield. the area of
land, known as improvement District no. 4, was
chosen as the location for an expansion project
in response to the need for improved drinking
water quality, reliability and supply. this project
would double the drinking water capacity at the
purification plant.
the project involved upgrades to many of
the plant’s concrete buildings and structures,
including the controlled demolition and
removal of an existing underground highway
crossing bridge, chemical feed control building,
raw water pump station, bulk storage tanks
and associated concrete docks, slabs, footings
and walls. the project also called for the
cutting and removal of interior concrete
structures and catwalks within the confines
of sediment, flocculation and filter basins, the
drilling of numerous holes ranging from 24 to
52 inches in diameter and the wall sawing of
weir openings in all of the plant’s basins.
Due to the quantity of the cutting work
and varied methods necessary to remove
the required concrete from areas of limited
access, the general contractor for the project,
ssc construction, inc. of corona, california,
decided to enlist the help of a professional
cutting contractor to complete the work. csDA
member Austin enterprise of Bakersfield was
chosen to perform the cutting and removal
of the specified buildings and structures. “we
have built a solid reputation for the work we
perform and were pleased that the general
contractor selected us for this large job,” said
ty conner, owner of Austin enterprise.
portions of the work were to be performed
through reinforced concrete in confined work
areas, so surrounding structures and slabs had
to be protected. Diamond tools offer reduced
noise and vibration compared to traditional
demolition tools, so it was easier for the con-
tractor to isolate the required concrete sections
for cutting and removal. time was also a fac-
tor, with Austin enterprise having to work with
tight schedules for some elements of the work.
Dust and debris were to be kept to a minimum
in all parts of the purification plant. the use of
diamond core bits, blades and wire addressed
both of these issues.
the first task for the operators was to
remove 36 existing 25-foot-long concrete
troughs from three flocculation bays. each bay
contained 12 troughs. each trough measured
3 feet wide, 25 feet long, 2 feet deep and
stood 15 feet tall. the end of each trough
In September 2008, a major expansion and upgrade project began at a waste
water purification plant in Bakersfield, California. The project involved a large
quantity of reinforced concrete cutting in confined work areas with restrictions
on noise and vibration levels. The work included cutting various buildings and
structures and core drilling holes up to 52 inches in diameter, so a professional
concrete cutter was required to join the project to perform this work.
Diamond wire saw techniques were used on concrete support structures. twelve troughs were removed from each of the three flocculation bays.
C o N C r e t e C a s e s
2 2 | MArcH.11
was attached to an existing concrete wall, so
operators had to chip out and expose each
end in order to burn through the steel using
long-neck torches. the contractor shored each
trough before cutting commenced. with the
ends of each trough exposed, a 250-ton crane
was used to sling each one and remove them.
it took two operators 12 hours to cut each of
the 36 troughs free with a ws25 wire saw from
Diamond products.
the removal of the concrete troughs
was completed first in order for the cutting
contractor to be able to access the main
concrete support structures in each bay, as
these structures also had to be removed. the
main 40-foot-long, 5-foot-wide, 4-foot-high
and 16-inch-thick support structures were
difficult to remove using cutting techniques
like wall sawing, so Austin enterprise utilized a
wire saw for the cutting and removal of these
working with one saw, approximately one
week to complete each bay. A total of 12 wire
saw cuts were required to break each structure
down into six sections weighing between 2,500
and 7,500 pounds each, and this process was
repeated in each of the three bays.
each structure was “U” shaped and
pick points for the cut sections were cored
so that the structures could be removed by
crane. Dimas and Meco hand-held core drills,
together with rotary hammers from Hilti, were
also used for the picking and some breaking
of the sections. wire sawing averaged 13 feet
per cut, giving a total of 468 linear feet for the
cutting of the troughs and support structures.
the contractor determined that there would
be distinct time and cost advantages to using
the wire saw for this project. it took two days
to finish the cutting in each bay with the wire
saw, compared with an anticipated six days
of cutting per bay using a wall saw. this also
minimized the amount of time that the crane
was used on the job providing important
savings for Austin enterprise.
the biggest challenge facing this csDA
member at the water purification plant
was the limited space for cutting. Austin
enterprise had to make sure that all existing
concrete structures and supports underneath
the work area were not disturbed or
damaged. preserving the structural integrity
A number of other interior concrete structures within the plant were cut and removed.
items. the plan was to split the structures into
smaller sections so that they could be removed
by crane. each of the cut sections were shored
before cutting started. it took one operator,
concrete openings | 2 3www.csDA.org
Concrete Openings 2_3 Page December 2010.indd 1 10/13/2010 1:28:27 PM
of surrounding buildings and structures was
made easier by the use of diamond wire, as
this application provided the required levels
of noise and vibration to complete the work
quickly, safely and efficiently. the cutting team
estimates that the use of the wire saw increased
their production by 80 percent, enabling them
to remove large pieces of concrete in a short
period of time while eliminating the need to
construct false walls to protect the existing
structures from debris.
in addition to the restricted access at
the plant, there was a series of scheduled
shutdowns during which the cutting work had
to take place. these strict time frames were
specified so that the plant could continue to
function with as little disruption as possible.
these shutdowns ranged from 10 hours for
new tie-ins to 24-hour shutdowns for the
sawing of weir wall openings, and even
a 90-day shutdown for the sawing of the
sediment basins.
the project involved cutting in areas
of limited access and overhead working
conditions. in instances where the cutting area
was without the use of a fire or smoke alarm
system for more than four hours, a person was
designated to stand as a fire watch. the work
area was properly ventilated and the crane
rigging was secured to meet federal standards
at all times.
in addition to the wire saw and hand-held
core drills used on the job, Austin enterprise
employed two Meco 65-horsepower slab saws
from Diamond products and a Longyear wall
saw to cut and remove the concrete troughs
and main support structures from the three
flocculation bays. A gDM hand saw and
partner ring saw were also utilized during
the job. in total, the contractor made 500
linear feet of wire saw cuts through 14-inch-
thick concrete and 300 feet of wall saw cuts to
the same thickness. over 100 core drill holes
were made, ranging from 24 to 72 inches in
diameter and 14 to 24 inches in depth, and
950 rock drill holes were created for new
dowel bars. A flat saw cut through 14-inch-
thick concrete to remove catwalks, totaling
275 feet of cutting. Altogether, over 24,300
cubic feet of concrete was cut and removed
from the plant.
the project was completed on time and
within budget. Due to the success of this job,
2 4 | MArcH.11
ComPaNy ProFile
Austin Enterprise has been a CSDA
member since 2005 and has been
in business for 19 years. Located in
Bakersfield, California, the company
has a staff of 45 and has 26 support
vehicles. Austin Enterprise offers
concrete cutting services of slab sawing,
wall sawing, hand sawing, wire sawing,
core drilling, grinding and grooving,
sawing and sealing and bridge joints.
resoUrCes
general Contractor:
SSC Construction, Inc.
sawing and Drilling Contractor:
Austin Enterprise
Bakersfield, California
Phone: 661-589-1001
email: sales@austin-enterprise.com
website: www. austin-enterprise.com
methods Used: Core Drilling, Wall
Sawing, Wire Sawing
reView AnD coMMent on tHis ArticLe At: www.CoNCreteoPeNiNgs.Com/ForUm.CFm
Austin enterprise received two more jobs
from ssc construction at the site, performing
cutting work on concrete columns in the new
parts of the plant and demolition work at the
existing site maintenance yard.
the site supervisor for Austin enterprise,
Darold Buskirk, was extremely satisfied with
the project, “we finished early, picked up
additional work and went the duration of
the project—three years—without incident.
so overall the job was a great success,” he
said. “At any one time we had 5- to 10-man
crews performing diamond cutting, demolition
work, or both.”
new portions of the Henry c. garnett
water purification plant were open for use in
2009, while the dismantling and demolition
work associated with the existing buildings
and structures was due for completion at the
end of 2010. the plant now has the capability
to provide 72 million gallons of treated water
each day to the Bakersfield metropolitan area.
the cutting work has helped the plant increase production to 72 million gallons of treated water per day.
Scan It.Cut It.Core It.
Geophysical Survey Systems, Inc.www.geophysical.com • sales@geophysical.com
Concrete Inspection for the Sawing and Drilling Contractor
CONEXPO-CON/AGGBooth 11435
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2 6 | MArcH.11
Leaders Make Selling a Priority
By George Hedley
the BUsiNess of BusIness
“I have some deep concerns about the future of your company. I have some deep concerns
about your leadership. I have some deep concerns about the management team you have
assembled. Your business is not growing for one reason: You and your management team are
not leading by example.”
t his was the opening to a letter recently sent to a start-up company from an investor. the
intention was to shake up the company and help identify where its problems truly lie.
often times, business owners and managers tend to blame their bottom line woes on
the economy, competition, customers, salespeople or their employees. in reality, results are the
biggest indicator of leadership.
leaDers leaD By examPle
Leaders lead. Leaders make it happen. Leaders get big results. Leaders set the pace. Leaders get
people to follow. Leaders create excitement. Leaders take accountability. Leaders do what it takes.
Making a profit and expanding a company is simple. it starts with creating enough revenue
to cover job costs, overhead and profit goals for the year. no revenue equals no business and
therefore, no profit. successful business leaders are almost always the big-time revenue genera-
tors who create lots of sales. the fastest way to fix a company’s profit or growth problems is to
generate more revenue. Here are some quotes to consider from successful leaders:
“Anyone can manage. Leaders go out and create revenue.”
—sam waltoN (walmart)
“Anyone can write procedure manuals. Leaders go out and sell stock.”
—JeFF Bezos (amazoN)
“Anyone can mind the store. Revenue takes inspiration and excitement.”
—JaCk welCh (geNeral eleCtriC)
“Anyone can organize. Leaders cold call and close sales.”
—lee iaCoCCa (Chrysler)
“Anyone can tell others to do it. Leaders go out and make it happen themselves.”
—ross Perot (eleCtroNiC Data systems/Perot systems)
“Anyone can build great buildings. Leaders get people to sign contracts!”
—george heDley
selliNg is Not easy
For some, selling does not come naturally.
Many business owners do not like to spend
their time cold-calling on potential customers
who do not really want to talk to them. selling
is uncomfortable. selling is not everyone’s gift,
so many business owners try to address this in
the same way—by hiring a salesperson. For the
business owner, it is hoped that the appoint-
ment of a dedicated sales person will remove
them from the sales process. Unfortunately,
this is often not the case. in some instances,
the salesperson will ask the business owner
to accompany them on sales calls in order to
close deals. this is not the situation the busi-
ness owner wants to be in, but he or she finds
it hard to come up with an alternative and
does not want to be without any salespeople.
it goes without saying that a business cannot
grow without anyone in place to bring in sales.
in the construction business, clients want
to know the owner and project manage-
ment team before making a decision to hire.
customers want to know who they will be
doing business with. they want to build rela-
tionships and develop a sense of trust during
the sales and contractor selection process.
it is almost impossible to expect a sales-
person to get a construction contract signed
without the owner’s help. it is easy to hire a
salesperson, but the hard part is to get them
to sell and close well without any coaching,
direction and hands-on involvement. owners
cannot rely exclusively on salespeople to grow
concrete openings | 2 7www.csDA.org
the business and bring in sales, as the likelihood
is that this won’t happen. without the owner
and management team involved, it is hard to
meet the business’ sales goals.
leaDers Commit to sell
As a business owner, the only way to grow
a company is to take personal responsibility to
get it done. the owner must also be the leader,
and must lead by example. to be successful, a
business owner must spend time with their cus-
tomers and make the sales. owners should ask
themselves what is their personal commitment
to selling. is it this week, this month, this quar-
ter or this year?
Leaders generate revenue. A personal sales
approach, utilizing face-to-face appointments
with the top 20 to 50 prospective customer tar-
gets, is what it takes. every breakfast and lunch
is an opportunity to be with one of these pros-
pects. it is possible to arrange at least one or two
meetings with potential and current customers
from the company’s list every day. weekly prog-
ress reports can be distributed to a company’s
management team to show that the business
owner is committed to making sales happen.
A business owner should lead by example.
only by this example of leadership will the rest
of a management team get on board as well.
A good way to move a company forward is
to make selling everyone’s priority. get sales
commitments from every management team
member. if some are not willing to, or simply
cannot make it happen, then these people
can be replaced with others who can and will
sell. Business owners cannot grow a company
without 100% commitment from everyone
at the top.
make selliNg a Priority
in response to the letter sent to the start-
up company, the ceo got on board and made
it happen. He made a personal commitment
to make ten sales appointments every week.
He also committed to personally generate
$15,000,000 in revenue within six months. His
leadership inspired those under him to get
on board as well. each team member com-
mitted to make selling their priority. this also
improved productivity, customer service and
profitability. in addition, the company’s sales-
person showed a marked improvement as well.
with the full support of the company leaders,
he was more aggressive, created leads and
turned them into sales.
As the leader of the business, the respon-
sibility to create growth and profit lies ulti-
mately at the feet of the business owner. it is
their responsibility to lead the company’s man-
agement or project team and to set the priori-
ties. it is recommended that business owners
make selling a priority and lead the company
in this endeavor. A company needs leadership
and employees need someone to follow. the
challenge for business owners in construction
is; where will you lead your company?
George Hedley is a professional speaker and author. His company, Hardhat Presentations, is based in Newport Beach, California, and specializes in presenting business growth ideas and leadership techniques to the construction industry. Hedley can be reached at gh@hardhatpresentations.com, where companies can also receive a free copy of his book “Everything Contractors Know About Making A Profit,” or by phone at 800-851-8553. For more information, visit www.hardhatpresentations.com.
2 8 | MArcH.11
teCh Talk
Tech Talk is a regular feature of Concrete Openings magazine, focusing on equipment, maintenance and operational issues of interest to concrete cutting 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.
By Joe Taccogna
Diamond Chain Technology™:Proper Care and Maintenance of Chains, Guidebars and Sprockets
C oncrete chain saws and Diamond
chain technology™ have been part of
the professional concrete sawing and
drilling industry for over 20 years. whether a
concrete cutting contractor has been using
this technology for many years or is just get-
ting started, there can be certain aspects of
Diamond chain technology™ that are often
not fully understood. this article will focus
on the care and maintenance of the primary
components of the diamond chain cutting sys-
tem, with the aim of clarifying some common
views on this subject while providing timely
reminders for operators. Understanding how
to care for these primary components will help
maximize the investment made in this technol-
ogy and improve the capabilities of cutting
contractors.
DiamoND ChaiN
ProPer ChaiN seleCtioN
it is important for operators to select the
correct chain for the job. there may be more
than one type of chain available at the shop,
so choosing the right one is crucial. Like other
cutting systems and technologies, there are
different diamond segment “recipes” for cut-
ting different types of material like brick, block
or concrete. each recipe is formulated to spe-
cifically cut that particular type of material.
choosing the right chain with the right seg-
ments will not only improve performance, but
will save time and money.
New ChaiN iNstallatioN aND Break-iN
A new chain may be installed in either
direction. new chains usually require a few
minutes of cutting to break in. Avoid cutting
heavy steel with a chain that has not yet been
broken in. this is because some chains arrive
from the factory without diamonds exposed
on the segments, and cutting a material like
steel will not expose these diamonds. cutting
briefly on a coarse material like concrete will
expose the diamonds and produce better cut-
ting performance.
ProPer ChaiN teNsioN
the chain must be tensioned so that one
drive link is completely out of the groove and
the rest of the drive links are, at least par-
tially, inside the groove. the chain should be
loose enough so that an operator can easily
pull the chain around the guidebar by hand.
Horizontal cutting and longer chain lengths
require greater chain tensioning, because
there is a higher chance of the chain coming
out of the groove during cutting. excessive
loose chain tension may also allow the chain to
skip over the teeth of the drive sprocket, caus-
ing damage to the drive links. over-tensioning
the chain will increase nose sprocket and drive
sprocket wear, accelerate chain stretch and
decrease the power of the cutting system.
UseD ChaiN re-iNstallatioN
Before re-installing a used chain, operators
should inspect the segments and drive links for
damage. Just like with other diamond tools,
the chain has been used and a direction of cut
has been established, so operators should look
for the diamond crystal and bond tails on the
segment. the chain should be installed so the
diamond crystals lead the bond tails during
the cutting process. this helps avoid wasting a
layer of diamonds when cutting begins again.
gUiDeBars
ProPer Bar rail maiNteNaNCe
guidebars are designed to be used on both
sides. the bar will last longer if the wear on
the bar is evened out. this can be likened
to rotating tires on a vehicle. the guidebar
should be turned over periodically to maximize
performance. A guidebar is at the end of its
life when both sets of the guidebar rails are
worn to a point where the drive links bottom-
out in the groove.
An example of drive link damage.
concrete openings | 2 9www.csDA.org1250 NW Main Street • Lee’s Summit, MO 64086
ARIX™ is the original diamond arrangement technology and DITEQ is the only company that employs this full ARIX™ technology.
Diamond particles are specifically arranged throughout the segment - not just on the surface of the segment like our imitators.
ARIX™ gives faster cutting speeds and longer blade life with precise diamond arrangement throughout each segment for unparalleled performance.
You’ll find ARIX™ throughout DITEQ’s full line of professional diamond tools. You’ve got to see it to believe it!
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DIAMOND TOOLS & EQUIPMENT866-688-1032
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Don’t Be Fooled by Imitators
ConCreTe openIngs onlIneCSDA has a dedicated website for its
official magazine, www.concreteopenings.
com. All job stories, regular columns—
and much more—can be accessed 24/7.
The website incorporates the latest
page-turning technology to allow readers
to page through the entire magazine
or print out sections to be read later.
The home page of the website is
organized with the same headlines as
the magazine to make navigation easy.
The website showcases the techniques
of sawing and drilling and helping to
educate specifiers of concrete cutting
services about just what can be done
with diamond tools. Comments
about job stories, or the magazine as
a whole, can now be shared online in
the discussion forum. Visitors can join
discussion threads to share knowledge
and information on specific topics
covered in the columns, or start new
threads on industry-related subjects.
Back issues are contained in the
Archives page and individual stories
are categorized by technique to help
readers find exactly what they’re
looking for on the Techniques page.
The website can be accessed through
home computers or internet-enabled
portable devices. For more information,
call Russell Hitchen at 727-577-5004
or visit www.concreteopenings.com.
3 0 | MARCH.11
SprocketS
proper care and Maintenance of
noSe SprocketS
The nose sprocket inside the guidebar is
cooled and lubricated with water. The guide-
bar has water channels inside it that deliv-
ers 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 the internal
water ports of guidebars and starve these criti-
cal components of cooling and lubrication.
To improve the longevity of the
nose sprocket:
• Ensurethatcleanorfilteredwater
is supplied
• Freerunthesawwithwaterflowing
for several seconds after cutting to
thoroughlyflushthenosesprocket
with water
• Beforecutting,applyafilmof
lightweight oil to the entire cutting
system, with particular attention to the
nose sprocket
• Understandthatheavyplungecutting
will shorten nose sprocket life
• Avoidover-tensioningofthechain,
which puts more stress on the bearings
inside the sprocket nose
If properly operated and maintained, the
nose sprocket should last the life of the guide-
bar. However, nose sprocket replacement kits
are available to service guidebars in the event
a nose sprocket becomes damaged before the
guidebar is worn out.
proper care of drive SprocketS
The drive sprocket on a concrete chain
saw is a critical part of the cutting system,
because this is where power is introduced to
the chain. Drive sprockets do wear out over
time.Exceedingthenormaloperatinglife
of the drive sprocket will lead to chain and
sprocket interface slippage. This can cause
severe damage to the chain drive links. It is
important for operators to understand how
toavoidexcessivewearandwhenitistime
to replace drive sprockets.
Grooving of teeth on the drive sprocket is
a normal wearing action that occurs because
of abrasive slurry moving between the chain
and the drive sprocket during operation.
when using a portable water supply
from a truck
• Screenorfilteranyportablewatertank
exittoensureacleanwatersupply
• Periodicallyreplacetheinlinehose
screen at the hose bib if using a
conventional water hose
Adequate water pressure is the key to
maximizingguidebarnosesprocketlife.
Beforecuttingconcreteusinganytypeof
saw, it is imperative that the operator under-
stands how the equipment works and how to
get the most out of it. Diamond chains can cre-
ateavarietyofcutsinconcreteinanefficient
manner while maintaining a good life span.
Byfollowingtheadvicegiveninthisarticle,
operators can make their jobs easier and save
their employers money.
Joe Taccogna is the marketing services manager with ICS, Blount Inc., based in Portland, Oregon. Taccogna can be contacted at 503-653-4644 or by email at joet@icsbestway.com. For more information on ICS, Blount, visit www.icsbestway.com.
Although new drive sprockets are not direc-
tional 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.
Forbestresultsandtoimprovethe
longevity of a drive sprocket:
• Avoidexcessivechaintension.This
accelerates drive sprocket grooving
• Ensuresufficientwaterflow,as
inadequate water supply accelerates
drive sprocket grooving
The drive sprocket should be replaced
when the drive link groove has worn 75 per-
cent across the sprocket tooth tip for a hydrau-
lic sprocket, or when the teeth become sharply
pointed on a gas saw sprocket.
final note about Water Supply
Water is necessary to keep the cutting
system working properly and a good water
supplywillhelptomaximizethelifeofallof
components.
Here are a few points of note and
some suggestions about water supply:
• Minimumwaterpressurerequiredis
20 psi
• Ensurethatthepumpissupplying
adequate water pressure output
A comparison of new and worn sprockets.
3 2 | MARCH.11
HUSQVARNA CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS17400 West 119th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66061 • T 800-288-5040 • F 800-825-00282077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 8J8 • T 800-461-9589 • F 800-728-1907
www.husqvarnacp.comCopyright © 2011 Husqvarna AB (publ.). All rights reserved. Husqvarna is a registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).
We’ve got you covered.
Husqvarna’s line of demolition robots are the very latest in compact demolition robot technology. High power, low weight and functional design make them the choice for demolition work. Each robot has unique features that put it in a class of its own. The DXR 310’s telescopic boom has a range of approximately 18', including breaker; while the DXR 250 is smaller and lighter to fit into compact spaces. The newest robot, the DXR 140, features an arm system that rotates 360°, without restrictions. These highlymaneuverable machines can pass through normal-sized doorways, climb stairs and the low-profile bodies ensure operators can see over them when working - creating a safer and more efficient working environment. Each machine is controlled with the market’s most unique, user-friendly remote control featuring Bluetooth technology, an innovation for this type of machine.Husqvarna’s demolition robots were built to be sturdy, powerful and smart. They were built for demolition.
Husqvarna introduces its newest remote-controlleddemolition robot, the DXR 140.
DXR 310
DXR 140
DXR 250
concrETEoPEningS|3 3www.cSDA.org
HUSQVARNA CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS17400 West 119th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66061 • T 800-288-5040 • F 800-825-00282077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 8J8 • T 800-461-9589 • F 800-728-1907
www.husqvarnacp.comCopyright © 2011 Husqvarna AB (publ.). All rights reserved. Husqvarna is a registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).
We’ve got you covered.
Husqvarna’s line of demolition robots are the very latest in compact demolition robot technology. High power, low weight and functional design make them the choice for demolition work. Each robot has unique features that put it in a class of its own. The DXR 310’s telescopic boom has a range of approximately 18', including breaker; while the DXR 250 is smaller and lighter to fit into compact spaces. The newest robot, the DXR 140, features an arm system that rotates 360°, without restrictions. These highlymaneuverable machines can pass through normal-sized doorways, climb stairs and the low-profile bodies ensure operators can see over them when working - creating a safer and more efficient working environment. Each machine is controlled with the market’s most unique, user-friendly remote control featuring Bluetooth technology, an innovation for this type of machine.Husqvarna’s demolition robots were built to be sturdy, powerful and smart. They were built for demolition.
Husqvarna introduces its newest remote-controlleddemolition robot, the DXR 140.
DXR 310
DXR 140
DXR 250
3 4 | MARCH.11
using diamond wire to cut concrete is one of the most challenging
applications for sawing and drilling contractors. This innovative
technique originated in quarries to extract stone and is ideal for
cutting thick concrete where access is limited. Careful planning and set-up
procedures insure the work is completed quickly and safely. When a CSDA
member was chosen to cut and remove 20-foot-tall concrete pillars from a lake
in Missouri, wire sawing offered a safe and efficient solution.
all eyes on contractor’s Wire Saw during pillar removal
the truman Show
The cylindrical concrete pillars stood 12 feet tall and
measured 4 feet in diameter.
concrETEoPEningS|3 5www.cSDA.org
TheHarryS.TrumanDamandreservoir,
also known as Truman Lake, is located between
the cities of Clinton and Warsaw in Missouri.
The 56,000-acre lake is the largest man-
made lake in the state and is surrounded by
more than 100,000 acres of land for outdoor
recreation activities such as hunting, hiking
and horseback riding. The dam, located at
the lake by the Osage River, sits about 1.5
miles northwest of Warsaw, Missouri, and
regulateswaterflowtoproducehydroelectric
powerwhileprovidingfloodcontrolforthe
SouthwestPowerAdministration.
TheU.S.ArmycorpsofEngineerscom-
pleted construction of the dam and reservoir
in 1979 and still manage the site today. In the
early 1960s, a series of concrete pillars was
installed close to the water’s edge to run elec-
trical and utility services across part of the lake.
Sincethepillarswereinstalled,severeweather
and corrosion had caused many of the pillars
to tilt. This rendered the pillars structurally
unsound so the decision was made to have
them removed. The task facing the chosen con-
tractor was to cut and remove the 12 cylindri-
cal reinforced concrete pillars that were each
4 feet in diameter. The pillars stood 20 feet
tall from the bottom of the lake, and it was
specifiedbytheU.S.ArmycorpsofEngineers
that they be cut as close to the bed of the lake
as possible.
Concrete cutting in Truman Lake, Missouri,fromfloatingworkplatforms.
c o n c r e t e c a S e S
3 6 | MARCH.11
Massman Construction Co. of Kansas City,
Missouri, was selected as the general contrac-
tor for the planned work. The company then
neededtofindacuttingspecialistthathad
therightequipmentandexperiencetoper-
form the underwater demolition aspects of the
project.MassmanchosecSDAmembercoring
andcuttingofSpringfield,partofThecoring
and Cutting Group, to complete the work.
“We could set up the wire saw close to the
bottom of the lake to make the cuts. We were
alsoabletominimizedebrisinthewaterand
make a really clean cut,” said Kenney Robling,
branch manager at the Coring and Cutting of
Springfieldoffice.
Thefirsttaskforthecuttingcontractor
was to assess the environment in which the
cutting would take place. The lake varied in
depth from 4 to 9 feet at the locations of the
12 pier structures, so a diver was required to
enter the water and set up the pulley systems
totheconcretesurface.Afloatingworkbarge
was employed to carry a crane and the sawing
equipment.Pulleyswerepositionedtorun
the 50-foot length of 0.375-inch-diameter
diamond wire from Husqvarna that was used
to make the planned cuts. It was the diver’s
job to run the wire through the pulley system
and connect it around the wire saw and pillar.
Operators then ran a two to three-minute test
of the system to check that it worked properly.
Then divers went back into the water to make
sure all pulleys remained intact and the wire
was still running its intended route.
As soon as the setup had been tested,
sawing commenced. On average, it took three
hours to saw through the 4-foot-diameter
concrete pillars. Two pillars were cut each day.
A diver assessed the base of the pillars and set up 50-foot-long wire saw runs.
Each4-foot-diameterpiertookthreehourstocut.
concrETEoPEningS|3 7www.cSDA.org
rEViEwAnDcoMMEnTonTHiSArTicLEAT: WWW.concreteopeningS.coM/foruM.cfM
coMpany profile
The Coring and Cutting Group has been
a CSDA member since the year 2000. The
group’s headquarters are in Kansas City,
Missouri, and there are an additional
20 branch locations across nine states
in the U.S. The Coring and Cutting of
Springfield branch has been in business
for 32 years, has 12 operators and 12
trucks and offers the services of core
drilling, wall sawing, wire sawing, flat
sawing and selective demolition.
reSourceS
general contractor:
Massman Construction Co.
Sawing and drilling contractor:
Coring and Cutting of Springfield
Springfield, Missouri
phone: 417-725-4534
email: kenneyrobling@yahoo.com
Website: www.theccg.us
Methods used: Wire Sawing
It took the team from Coring and Cutting
ofSpringfieldfivedaystocutthroughall12
of the 4-foot-diameter, 21,000-pound pier sec-
tions and safely remove them from the lake.
This totaled 252,000 pounds of cut concrete.
The job was completed without any delays,
and was on time and within budget. “This was
achallengingbutgreatjobfortheSpringfield
office to perform,” said carl Jones, safety
director for The Coring and Cutting Group.
“The potential safety risks were reviewed and
managed well which made for a highly-suc-
cessfuljob,”Jonesadded.
The cutting contractor credits the
company’s success in winning the project
to a couple of important points, as Robling
explains, “The coring and cutting of
Springfieldofficehasbuiltasolidreputation
over the years, and has a large customer base
to show for it. In addition, we had the required
expertise in wire sawing. our reputation
helped us to win the bid for the job at Truman
Lakeandourexpertisemadesurethejobwas
a success.”
Rigging was set up to attach the cut sections
to the crane for removal before each pier was
cut free from its base. When the cutting of
each pier was completed, the crane removed
the 21,000-pound cut section from the water.
The sections were held on the platform until
being loaded onto a truck for removal from
the work area. Cutting work was completed in
fiveshiftsbyfiveoperatorsandadiver.
Underwaterwiresawingisnotwithoutits
challenges. Working in the 60-degree waters
of Truman Lake during October 2010 was one
thing, but the windy weather conditions above
the water and the little-to-no visibility in the
watermadethewiresawset-updifficultas
well.Unabletoseeveryfaraheadunderthe
water, the diver relied on his sense of touch to
run the wire through the pulley system. The
two to three-minute test runs of the saw were
very important, as the run had to be accurate
from the start of cutting before speed could
be increased.
The use of a diver was a necessity for the
job, so The Coring and Cutting Group took steps
tomakesurethattheSpringfieldofficehada
qualifieddiver.Thechosendivertookseveral
classesandwascertifiedinthisdisciplinebefore
completing the dives in the lake. Operators and
laborersonthefloatingworkbargeworeall
necessary personal protective equipment and
life vests at all times.
To cut the 12 concrete pier structures free
and remove them, operators used a 26-horse-
power cS2512 wire saw from Husqvarna
together with a hydraulic power pack from
Diamond Products. A 50-foot length of
0.375-diameter wire was also supplied by
Husqvarna.
Cut sections weighed an average of 21,000 pounds.
c o n c r e t e c a S e S
3 8 | MARCH.11
By Erin O’Brien
Too Sick to Work?
core HEALTH
theaverageU.S.employeetakes5.8sick
days per year, a number that probably
seems too high to employers but pretty
low to employees. There is a quiet battle be-
tween the two parties about the subject of ill
time and this raises the question, how sick is
“too sick” to work?
coldsandthefluaretwoofthemainrea-
sons for employees missing work, although
other related illnesses and conditions can
accountformisseddays.Forthemostpart,a
mild cold or minor allergy symptoms do not
require complete rest, and the employee does
not need to stay home. The important thing
for employees to remember is that if, by going
to work, the employee could make their con-
dition worse, fail to do their job effectively,
or risk infecting coworkers, staying home for
a day or two is the best course of action. If an
employee is feeling very sick, they are likely
to have a hard time functioning and perform-
ing at their normal level. Also, trying to “push
through” or “tough out” an illness can actu-
ally make a condition worse and prolong the
amount of time an employee is sick. Going
to work while contagious also increases the
risk of infecting coworkers. If an employee is
so sick that a doctor prescribes antibiotics or
any controlled substance to control pain, the
employee should stay home, especially if his
or her job entails driving or operating heavy
or dangerous equipment.
It is important to know the difference
betweenacoldandtheflu,however,and
determine when it is preferable to stay home.
Thefluisahighlycontagiousviral infection
and employees should stay home during the
worst of it. A cold, however, is usually less
severe and may not require an employee to
missanytimeatwork.Symptomsofacold
includeasorethroat,headache,sneezing,
congestion and coughing. These symptoms
usually emerge gradually over a few days.
Acold iscontagiousforthefirsttwodays
after symptoms start. It is during the conta-
gious period that a person is advised to stay
home to recover to avoid infecting anyone
else. Occasionally, symptoms of a cold can
include a fever, although it is usually low-
grade(100degreesForlower). ifthefever
isabove100degreesF (high-gradefever),
the person should stay home until the fever
subsides.Similarsymptomscanapplyforthe
flu,whereahigh-gradefeverisacommon
symptom.otherflusymptomsincludemus-
cle aches, headache, runny nose, sore throat,
cough,weaknessandfatigue.Flusymptoms
tend to be more severe and come on abruptly.
Employeesshouldstayhomeduringtheworst
daysofthefluandcanreturntowork24to
48hoursaftertheirtemperaturehasreturned
to normal.
Other illnesses and conditions that may
warrant time away from work include seasonal
allergies, sinus infections, pinkeye and staph
infections.Seasonalallergiesaremostcom-
mon in the spring, although they can occur
during any time of the year. About 25 percent
of the population has some type of allergy,
whether it is to dust, mold, pollen, animal dan-
der, insect stings and bites or other airborne
irritants. An allergic reaction happens when
aperson’simmunesystemaggressivelyfights
irritants that enter their system. These irritants
are perceived by the immune system as dan-
gerousandtheresultingsymptoms—sneezing,
red, watery, itchy eyes, congestion, fatigue
and trouble breathing—are the result of this
attack. Typically, allergies do not require the
employee to miss work, unless the symptoms
becomeextremelysevere,astheyarenotcon-
tagious. However, allergies can lead to sinus
infections, which may result in missed time
from work.
If allergic symptoms have lasted longer
than a few days or are getting worse, a sinus
infection is a likely culprit. In the case of a sinus
infection, it is recommended to see a doctor,
whomayprescribeantibiotics.Symptomsofa
sinus infection include green or yellow nasal
discharge, nasal congestion, facial pain or pres-
sure,fatigue,muscleaches,dizziness,head-
ache or aching in the upper jaw and teeth. This
sinus pressure and aching is what usually pre-
vents an employee from going to work, as the
pressure is so intense it can be painful just to
open their eyes or move their head. The worst
of the symptoms can last for two to seven days,
although mild symptoms will likely linger for
uptotwotothreeweeks.Sinusinfectionsare
not contagious, so in this case, the employee
should use their best judgment in deciding
whether or not to go to work.
Pinkeye,orconjunctivitis,canresultfrom
a viral or bacterial infection, allergies or envi-
ronmentalirritation.Symptomsofpinkeye
include redness, tearing, itching, burning or
swollen eyelids. If the cause of pinkeye is a
viral or bacterial infection, it is highly con-
concrETEoPEningS|3 9www.cSDA.org
tagious and the employee should stay home
untilthesymptomssubside.Viralpinkeyewill
not respond to antibiotics, but the condition
willimproveonitsowninthreetofivedays.
Bacterialpinkeyewillrespondtoantibioticeye
drops and the employee can return to work 24
to48hoursafterstartingtreatment.Pinkeye
caused by allergies or irritation is not conta-
gious and employees can continue to work.
Staph infections are another type of
highly-contagious infections. Staph infec-
tions usually present as an abscess or some-
thing that looks like an infected cut or insect
bite. They are easily treated, as long as it is
community-acquired (compared to hospital-
acquired, which can be much more serious
anddifficulttotreat).Earlydetectioniskey,
as the longer the infection goes untreated,
the worse it becomes. Treatment comes in
the form of antibiotics and avoiding contact
with the infected area. Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcusaureus(MrSA)isamoresevere
form of staph infection that is resistant to typi-
cal antibiotic treatment, as well as being highly
contagious. In both cases, it is important to see
a doctor and make sure the affected area is
covered at all times to prevent spreading the
infection.Employeeswhosejobincludespos-
sible skin-to-skin contact with other employees
should use caution to avoid infecting cowork-
ers.Leftuntreated,staphandMrSAinfections
can lead to more severe complications.
One of the most important things an
employee should consider when deciding
whether he or she are too sick to work is the
welfare of their coworkers and the effect their
illness will have on them. If the employee
worksincloseproximitytoseveralothers,or
is so sick that he or she is unable to function
effectively at work, it is advised that he or she
takeadayortwotorestathome.Employees
should follow the golden rule—treat others
as they would like to be treated.
Erin O’Brien, MS, ATC is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Marketing Coordinator for O’Brien International, the association management company that manages the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association. O’Brien received her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training from Ohio University and her Master of Science degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida. She is a regular contributor to Concrete Openings magazine. She can be reached at erin@csda.org or 727-577-5002.
Safety and firSt aid guidelineS and reSourceS
Solid answers to concrete rinse water disposal
Check out our web site to see how you can deal with Saw Slurry.Start saving money and help the environment!
www.congelz.com | 888.440.4250
Converting hazardous waste rinse water into a landfill safe solid!
4 0 | MARCH.11
for a number of months in 2010,
national news featured up-to-the-
minute coverage of the oil spill in
thegulfofMexico.reportsoften
referred to the use of “drillers mud” in the oil
drilling process, and at one point the media
described an attempt to seal the well with it
inordertostoptheflowofoilintothegulf.
Butwhatisdrillersmud?Atthetime,veryfew
people in the concrete industry knew anything
about it. It cannot be found in many indus-
try publications because it doesn’t fall within
the jurisdiction of many trade associations.
It falls under the guidelines set forth by the
AmericanPetroleuminstitute(APi),andithas
beendiscoveredthatthereisn’tastandardmix
because the requirements of each well appli-
cation are unique.
drillers MudThere are two types of mud: drillers mud
and cement slurry. When an oil well is drilled,
contractors place drill bits at the bottom of
drill pipes, turning them to do the actual drill-
ing. The drill bits create a much larger hole
than the drill pipe, so workers install a large
steel pipe casing to protect the hole as they
go down to prevent the sides of the hole from
caving in. As the drilling gets deeper, it’s com-
mon to reduce the diameter of the outside
casing, making the structure of a well more
complicated.
As a drill cuts through dirt and rock, the
tailings must be cleared away constantly and
brought to the surface. Drillers mud is used for
thatpurpose.itflowsthroughaholeinthe
center of the drill to keep the bit free of tail-
ings.Thismudismixedwitheitherfreshorsalt
watertoflushground-upmaterialawayfrom
the bit and bring it to the surface between
What is “drillers Mud?”oil industry uses class H portland cement during drilling operations
By Joe Nasvik
the drill pipe and the casing. This noncementi-
tious material is formulated to meet the special
requirements for each well.
cement SlurryJim Jarl, the quality control manager
ofclassHoil-wellcementforTexasLehigh
cement,Buda,Texas,saysthecementingopera-
tionforanoilwell isverydifficult.Thechal-
lengeinvolvesfillingthespacebetweenthe
steel casing and the dirt or rock sides of a well
withamixtureofcementandvariousother
materials designed to best secure the forma-
tions and bond to the casing. The void is typi-
cally 1 to 2 inches, and must be completely
filledtosecurethecasingandpreventwater
or anything else from corroding the steel cas-
ing or escaping from around the outside of the
casing pipe. “The cement slurry must adhere to
thepipeandcompletelyfillthespacewithno
voids,”Jarladds.
A typical drilled hole. A steel pipe casing is inserted into the drilled hole to prevent the possibility of collapse. Typically, there is a 1- to 2-inch void space between the casing.
Tofillthevoidaroundthecasing,ameasuredamountofcementslurryisplacedinsidethecasing.next,arubber plug is placed on top of the slurry and water or seawater is typically pumped on top of the plug to pressure.
concrETEoPEningS|4 1www.cSDA.org
In the case of the leaking well in the Gulf,
cementing the casing started more than a mile
below the surface where temperatures can
startatfreezingandsoonexceed300degrees
Fahrenheit in the ground below. “At 300
degreesFahrenheit,normalportlandcement
cansetinstantly,”saysJarl.“Sothemixture
mustbedesignedtomeetthespecificexpec-
tations of each well.”
Drilling slurries can be very complicated,
startingwiththecement.classHPortland
Cement is only used by the oil drilling indus-
try and there are few cement producers who
make it, as the product is considered high risk.
Manufacturers remove the calcium aluminates
(c3A)fromthecementinordertoprovidea
longer setting time.
Thefineaggregateusedisentirelydepen-
dent on well conditions. Companies develop
mixesbasedontheconditionsofawell.Mixes
that must be heavier use hematite aggregate
(anironcompound),mixesthatmustbelighter
usefine-gradedsilicaorsilicaflour,andclay
materials can be added to reduce shrinkage.
retardingandsuper-plasteringadmixtures
also are common.
How drillers install cement SlurryTime is of the essence when installing
cement slurry, because the cost of drilling
per hour is very high and drilling operations
cease while slurry is placed around casings.
Themixescreatedforanapplicationmustgive
the installer just the right amount of time: The
slurry must not set before placement is com-
plete but should ideally set shortly afterward
so drilling operations can proceed. Companies
thatdesignandinstallthesemixesoftenmake
theirownproprietyadmixturestomorecare-
fullymanagetheseexoticmixes.
To place cement slurries, contractors care-
fully calculate how much material is needed
tofillaspace.Thentheypumpthatamount
down through the casing to the bottom of
thewelltofillthevoidfromthebottomup.
next,theyinsertaplugorwiperplugontop
of the slurry and press it downward with non-
cementitious mud or water, pushing the slurry
around the bottom lip of the casing and up
intothevoid,completelyfillingthevoidspace
around the casing. This process continues until
the slurry moves all the way upward to the sur-
face or previous placement, leaving the casing
opensothedrillingmayproceed.Sometimes
drillers will perforate through the casing and
cementtoexposeoilbearingformationsto
the well.
whenawell’sflowiscutoff,thesame
cementslurryisusedtofilltheinsideofthe
casing, completely sealing it.
The worldwide search for oil has become
much riskier now. Oil companies are search-
ing for oil under conditions that are much
moredifficult.inthegulf,forexample,drill-
ing starts at ocean depths of 5000 feet or
more, making cement slurry operations very
intense. In response to these new environ-
ments, the requirements for cement slurry
products are changing too, and becoming
more sophisticated.
This article has been reprinted courtesy of concreteconstructionMagazine.
The article was written following the Gulf of Mexico oil spill in 2010, and the staff at Concrete Openings felt that it would be of interest to readers.
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4 2 | MARCH.11
Safety CounTS
Addressing Distracted Driving:Employers Need to Keep Their Eyes on the Road
By Mark A. Lies II and Meagan Newman
employers whose businesses require the
use of cars, vans or trucks must under-
stand that the policies and training they
have in place regarding the safe operation of
those vehicles—and the inclusion of a clear pro-
hibitionagainsttextingwhiledriving—areof
stronginteresttooSHA,thelawenforcement
community, insurance carriers and potential
civillitigants.Failuretoaddressthepotential
hazardsofdistracteddrivingcanresultinsig-
nificantemployerliability.
oSHa requireS tHat eMployerS ban
texting WHile driving
In a recent open letter to employers,
AssistantSecretaryofLaborfortheoccupational
SafetyandHealthAdministration(oSHA)David
Michaels said, “It is your responsibility and legal
obligation to have a clear, unequivocal and
enforcedpolicyagainsttextingwhiledriving.
Companies are in violation of the Occupational
SafetyandHealthActif,bypolicyorpractice,
theyrequiretextingwhiledriving,createincen-
tives that encourage or condone it or structure
worksothattextingisapracticalnecessityfor
workerstocarryouttheirjobs.oSHAwillinves-
tigate worker complaints, and employers who
violate the law will be subject to citations and
penalties.”oSHAwilluseitsgeneralDuty
clause,Section5(a)(1)oftheoccupational
SafetyandHealthAct,toissuecitationsand
proposed penalties in these circumstances.
oSHAconsiders“distracteddriving,”which
canincludetexting(andpotentiallytheuse
ofcellphonesfortelephonecalls),tobea
recognizedhazardtoemployeesafetyunder
thegeneralDutyclause.Penaltiesforwillful
violations of the Act under the General Duty
Clause can be as high as $70,000.
coStS greater tHan
regulatory penaltieS
oSHAcitationsandasso-
ciated penalties are not the
only liabilities that employ-
ers must be concerned about
when it comes to distracted
driving.Forexample,thirty
states have already enacted
bansontextingwhiledriving
and in many of the remain-
ing states similar bans are in
place at the county or city
level. Additionally, in 2009
more than 200 state bills
were introduced that ban cell
phoneuse—bothtextingand
talking.Theselawsmaketex-
ting while driving illegal and
also open employers to liabil-
ity for accidents that result
from the distracted driving
of their employees.
Employeesfacebothindi-
vidual civil and criminal lia-
bility for damages that result
fromaccidentscausedbytex-
ting while driving a vehicle.
Likewise, employers face liability for the acts
of their employees under agency law with
increased costs. An employer is potentially
liable when an accident happens as a con-
sequence of distracted driving, whether the
employee is on company time or even run-
ning a work-related errand, which includes a
quick trip to pick up lunch for themselves and
a supervisor. If the employer has not clearly
prohibitedtextingwhiledrivingandenforced
that policy, the employer faces potential liabil-
ity as a result of the accident.
Fordecades,employershavefacedliabil-
ity for the acts of their employees that occur
during the course of the employment rela-
tionship. If it is considered that the demands
of an employer have led to a distracted driver
causing an accident, the employer can be sub-
ject to vicarious liability claim. Consider the
claimsmadeagainstpizzadeliverycompa-
nies whose drivers were instructed to deliver
apizzain30minutesorless.Thetimecon-
straints placed on the delivery drivers were
causing these drivers to become more con-
www.cSDA.org concrETEoPEningS|4 3
oSHa / cSda alliance latest
t he Alliance between the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association (CSDA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is now in its sixth year and continues
to educate contractors, prevent on-the-job accidents and injuries and provide vital materials to advance a safe work environment for sawing and drilling professionals. Here is the latest news from the Alliance Program.
redeSigned oSHa SMall buSineSS Web pageS
oSHArecentlyredesigneditsSmallBusinesswebpagestohelpsmallbusiness
employersandworkersfindinformationonoSHA’ssmallbusinessresources.
TheSmallBusinesswebpagesincludeinformationabouttheadministration’s
on-siteconsultationProgramanditsSafetyandHealthAchievementrecognition
Program(SHArP).Theredesignedhomepageprovidesanswerstothesmall
businesscommunity’smostfrequentlyaskedquestionsaboutoSHA’ssmallbusiness
resources, programs and policies. It also features success stories highlighting how
employers have improved their workplace safety and health performance by using
oSHA’son-siteconsultationservices.Thenewon-siteconsultationProgramweb
pagereviewsthebenefitsofthisfreeandconfidentialprogramforsmalland
medium-sizedbusinessandguidesbusinessesthroughtheprocessofinitiating
andparticipatinginanon-siteconsultationvisit.TheSHArPwebpageprovides
amoreuser-friendlylayoutforsmallbusinessesseekinginformationonoSHA’s
recognitionprogramforon-siteconsultationparticipantswithexemplarysafetyand
healthmanagementsystems.ThewebpagesarealsoavailableinSpanish.Formore
information, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/index.html.
oSHa alliance SupportS 2011 naoSH Week
ThroughtheoSHAandAmericanSocietyofSafetyEngineers(ASSE)Alliance,
oSHAiscontinuingtoworkwithASSEtosupportnorthAmericanoccupational
SafetyandHealth(nAoSH)week,whichwilloccurMay1-7,2011.Thethemeforthe
2011campaignis“celebratingacenturyofSafety.”The2011nAoSHweekkick-off
eventwillbeheldattheDepartmentofLaboronMay2.nAoSHweek,anannual
campaignledbyASSEandthecanadianSocietyofSafetyEngineering(cSSE),is
aimed at increasing the focus of employers, workers and the general public on the
importance of preventing injuries and illnesses in the workplace. This year’s event
markstheseventhyeartheAllianceProgramwillbeinvolvedwithnAoSHweek
activities.Formoreinformation,visithttp://www.asse.org/newsroom/naosh11/
whatisnaosh.php.
scious about the clock on the dashboard than
on their surroundings, and accidents increased.
inthecontextofdistracteddriving,theprice
of vicarious liability can be significant. in
Florida,alumberwholesalersettledforover
$16 million after one of its salesmen (while
talkingonacellphone)hitandseverelydis-
abledanelderlywoman.inVirginia,amajor
california-basedlawfirmwassuedfor$30mil-
lion by the parents of a 15-year-old girl, who
waskilledbyacardrivenbyoneofthefirm’s
lawyerswhilethelawyerwasutilizingacell
phone. A jury ordered the attorney to pay the
family$2millionandthelawfirmsettledfor
aconfidentialamount.
Beyond potential oSHA administra-
tive penalties and civil and criminal liability,
employers should also consider how their
policies and practices can affect their insur-
ance rates. There is no question that with an
increase in accidents caused by distracted driv-
ing, the cost of worker’s compensation and
other insurance coverage will rise.
WHat SHould eMployerS do to
reduce accidentS cauSed by
diStracted driving?
Employersneedtoputintoeffectclear
policiesthatunequivocallyprohibittexting
and talking on a cell phone while operating
anykindofmotorizedvehicle.Thisincludes
cars, buses, trucks, forklifts, construction and
agricultural vehicles. The “workplace” includes
any location where the employee is operat-
ingaworkvehicleduringworkhours.For
example,manyemployersrequireemployees
who are operating a motor vehicle to take the
vehicleoutofmovingtrafficlanes,stopthe
vehicle completely and then use a cell phone
or electronic device to communicate.
Employers should also carefully evalu-
ateexistingpoliciesandthenatureoftheir
workplaces to ensure that there are no incen-
tives or un-written policies and practices that
encourage the use of hand-held communica-
tiondevicesfortextingordataentrywhile
operating a vehicle.
whileoSHA’srecentmessageaddresses
texting,employersshouldconsiderwhether
the use of other forms of hand-held com-
munication or data entry while operating
vehiclesiscreatingahazard.iftheanswer
is “yes”—or even “maybe”—further evalua-
4 4 | MARCH.11
driver Safety docuMentS froM cSda
TheconcreteSawing&DrillingAssociationhasanumberofdriver-relatedsafety
documents in place for its members, the most recent release covering the subject of dis-
tracteddriving.cSDAToolboxSafetyTips(TSTs)continuetobeausefulresourceforall
members,notjustcontractors.releasedinDecember2010,TST191providesinforma-
tion on the various forms of distracted driving and how industry professionals can avoid
beinginvolvedinroadtrafficaccidentscausedbythesedistractions.
ThroughtheoSHAAllianceprogram,cSDAhasalsoproducedaBestPracticeon
thesubjectofdefensivedriving.Thedocument,cSDA-oBP-1003,canbeviewedor
downloaded via www.csda.org and is available
inEnglishandSpanish.ThisBestPracticedetails
the steps a driver should take to make sure
the vehicle and its passengers remain safe
both before and during a journey.
Therearealmost100cSDATSTs
incirculationtogetherwithsixBest
Practicedocumentsproducedwith
oSHA.Formoreinformation,call
727-577-5004 or visit www.csda.org.
tion of these policies and practices is needed
to ensure that employees are protected from
recognizedhazards.
Consider the use of certain applications in
company-issued devices that can block the use
ofcellphones,includingtextingandinternet
access, while a vehicle is moving.
Enforcebansontextingwhileoperatinga
vehicle.Enforcementofthesepoliciesmustbe
consistent and cover both management and
non-management employees alike.
iftextingordataentryisanecessarypart
of an employee’s job while on the road, con-
sider devising a schedule that allows for rou-
tine breaks during which vehicles are stopped
to allow for the communication or data entry
to be completed.
onoctober4,2010,oSHAannounced
a new online resource intended to inform
workers of their rights and employers of
their responsibility to provide safe workplaces
while offering best practices and policies on
achieving safe workplaces in motor vehicles.
MoreinformationfromoSHAisavailableat
http://www.osha.gov/distracted-driving.
Additional information is available from
thenetworkofEmployersforTrafficSafetyat
http://trafficsafety.org/drivesafelyworkweek/
about-dsww.php.
concluSion
AsoSHA’senforcementofthisnewagenda
gainsmorenotoriety,itcanbeexpectedthatit
willhaveasignificantimpactonlawenforce-
mentatalllevelstoregulatethishazard.ifthe
foregoing recommendations are considered
and adopted by employers, they will reduce
potential individual civil and criminal liability
of employees as well as the vicarious liability
of the employer.
Mark A. Lies II is a labor and employment law attorney and partner with Seyfarth Shaw LLP in Chicago, Illinois. He specializes in occupational safety and health law and related employment law and personal injury litigation. In addition, Seyfarth Shaw has assisted CSDA members by holding presentations and moderating roundtable discussions at annual conventions. He can be reached at 312-460-5877 or at mlies@seyfarth.com.
Meagan Newman is an associate with Seyfarth Shaw LLP. Ms. Newman’s practice focuses on environmental and occupational safety and health law and related litigation. She can be reached at 312-460-5968.
4 6 | MARCH.11
inSurance CornEr
Negligent Entrustment
By Paul Zeni
S tories of serious vehicle crashes are
covered by the media on an almost-
daily basis. It is often the case that the
driver who caused the accident had a string
of serious driving violations. Typical responses
include, “How could that person be behind the
wheel?” and “Didn’t anyone check them out?”
These are also the types of questions that
many injured parties ask the courts to decide
upon. As a result, the number of negligent
entrustment verdicts continues to increase.
Judgmentsareoftenlargeandcaninclude
punitive damages, which, depending on juris-
diction, may not be covered by insurance. The
risk of uninsurable multi-million dollar awards
threatensacompany’sreputation,profitabil-
ity, insurability and ultimately its viability.
Fortunately,therearestepsthatcanbetaken
to guard against the allegation of negligent
entrustment.
WHat doeS negligent entruStMent
Mean?
In basic terms, negligent entrustment
means to charge someone with a trust or duty
in an inattentive or careless fashion or with-
out completing the required process steps. In
commercial auto operations, a case of negli-
gent entrustment may arise when someone
allows another person to use a vehicle know-
ing, or having reason to know, that the use of
the vehicle by such a person creates a risk of
harm to others.
WHat eleMentS Make up negligent
entruStMent?
There are several issues which are gener-
allyexaminedinacaseorclaimallegingneg-
ligent entrustment. They include:
• thecompetenceofthedriver
• theemployer’sawarenessofthedriver’s
competence
• theemployer’sentrustmentofthe
vehicle to the driver
• thedriver’snegligenceontheoccasion
in question
• thedriver’snegligencebeingthe
proximatecauseofthecrash
HoW can it be SHoWn tHat tHe
driver iS incoMpetent?
Cases in many jurisdictions have focused
on establishing the minimum competency of
driversbyusingtheFederalMotorcarrier
Safetyregulations(FMcSr)asareference.in
simple terms, these regulations require that
a driver:
• beoflegaldrivingageforthestate
where his/her license was issued
• beabletoreadandspeaktheEnglish
language
• byreasonofexperienceortraining,be
able to safely operate the vehicle
• byreasonofexperienceortraining,be
able to determine whether the cargo is
securely loaded
• bephysicallyqualifiedtooperatethe
vehicle
• holdavaliddriver’slicense
• completeanapplicationformfor
employment
• completeadrivingtestinthetype
ofvehicletheapplicantisexpected
tooperateandbedeemedqualified
to operate the vehicle or have not
committed a criminal offense
Although enacted to govern compa-
nies who are under the authority of the
Department of Transportation (DoT), the
FMcSrareincreasinglybeingreferencedasa
benchmarktomeasurethequalificationsofa
“professional driver” (a person who drives a
vehicleasaregularpartoftheirjobduties).
When allowed as evidence in cases involving
companies who are not under the author-
ity of the DOT, this principle can make a big
impact on the outcome of a court decision.
Of course, the easiest way to demonstrate a
driver’s incompetence is a long history of traf-
ficviolationsand/orcollisions.
HoW can it be SHoWn tHat tHe
eMployer kneW or SHould
Have knoWn of tHe driver’S
incoMpetence?
Typically, all pertinent employment records
of the driver will be reviewed by the plaintiff’s
counsel. They will also do a thorough investi-
gation of the driver’s background, including
his or her driving record. If the employment
records do not contain an accurate and com-
plete driving history of that employee, then
the plaintiff’s attorney may assert that the
employer “knew or should have known” of
the incompetence. If the plaintiff’s counsel
independently discovers records indicating
incompetency, then the employer should have
been able to discover the same knowledge.
HoW can it be SHoWn tHat tHe
eMployer entruSted tHe veHicle to
tHe driver?
Unlessit isproventhatthevehiclewas
taken without permission, it is presumed that
the vehicle was entrusted to the driver by the
employer.
concrETEoPEningS|4 7www.cSDA.org
HoW can it be SHoWn tHat tHe
driver WaS negligent on tHe
occaSion in queStion, and tHat tHe
driver’S negligence proxiMately
cauSed tHe craSH?
An investigation of the accident scene,
interviews with the parties involved and wit-
nesses and presentation of other evidence can
beusedtoproveafindingofnegligence.
WHat can a coMpany do to reduce
expoSure?
There are several areas of human resource
andsafetyprogramsthatshouldbeexamined:
• Driverrecruitingandselectionpractices
• new-hireevaluationandorientation
• ongoingdriverreviewandtraining
• Post-accidentreviewsandtraining
driver recruiting and Selection
practiceS
How a company attracts and then selects
drivers is very important. Regardless of neg-
ligent entrustment allegations, it just makes
good business sense to attract and hire the
very best candidates for the job.
When recruiting drivers, the company
should make it clear in the advertisement that
the position requires driving, and that candi-
datesshouldrequirecertainqualificationsin
ordertobeconsidered.Thesequalifications
should be spelled out in detail to avoid inter-
viewingunqualifiedprospects.Thesequalifi-
cationswillvaryfromjobtojob,butexamples
could include:
• thepossessionofavaliddriver’slicense
• thepossessionofaspecifictypeof
license (i.e., commercial license with
applicableendorsements)
• havingaclearMotorVehiclerecord
(MVr)
• havingexperienceoperatingavehicle
similar to the one that is used on the job
Somecompaniesmayneedtofocuson
selecting people for their technical skills or
salesskillsasafirstprioritybeforeconsider-
ing their driving ability, depending on the core
requirements of the vacancy. In this situation,
the company should set and follow certain
standards for driving ability. If the person can-
not meet the standards set, they should not
drive. If they meet the minimum standards but
are considered “conditional” (i.e., the candi-
date could fall below the standard with one
newviolationoraccident),thenatrainingand
monitoring plan should be enacted to enhance
their driving skills and to watch for inappropri-
ate risk-taking behaviors which could endan-
ger the driver or the public.
Companies should review driver recruiting
and selection practices annually to be sure that
theycontinuetoattractasuitablyqualified
driver for each position. The review should
also note any changes in position descriptions,
especially if driving time increases or is added
to a position’s responsibilities. Changes in state
or federal regulations affecting the position
should also be reviewed and incorporated into
company policy as needed. The bottom line
is that job requirements need to be clearly
communicatedandonlyqualifiedcandidates
should be placed into jobs requiring driving.
neW-Hire evaluation and orientation
Once an employee has been hired, addi-
tionalverificationofqualificationsmaybe
necessary. Medical reviews, drug and alcohol
screening, road testing and other types of
required evaluations may need to be com-
pleted in order to meet state or federal reg-
ulations. Any newly-discovered shortcom-
ings should be documented and addressed.
For example, a driver who demonstrates
inappropriate behaviors during a road test
should receive documented training aimed
at improving those demonstrated behaviors.
If a driver has serious problems in this phase,
they should not drive until the problems have
been corrected.
Companies also have the opportunity to
communicatethedutiesandexpectationsthat
come with the job. This may be accomplished
in a number of ways:
• Delivera“driverhandbook”
• Deliveran“employeemanual”
• Provideclassroominstruction
If delivering written materials, the
employer should have the employee sign
an acknowledgment that the employee has
received the manual and is required to read
it. It may also be necessary to follow up with
each employee at a later time to verify that
the manual has, indeed, been read.
Companies should monitor driver orienta-
tion, testing and training programs to be sure
that poor driving is discovered and addressed
promptly.Periodicreviewoftheeffectiveness
of the programs will ensure that programs
which are becoming outdated can be replaced.
Foramulti-locationcompany,periodicreviews
of each location should occur to make sure
company evaluation and orientation standards
are followed consistently.
ongoing driver revieW and training
It is not prudent to qualify a driver only
once, at the time of hire, and then never reval-
idatetheirqualifications.Peoplechangeover
time and so do their habits. Drivers who are
subjecttoFMcSrneedtoparticipateinan
annual review of their performance conducted
by their employer. This often includes obtain-
inganup-to-dateMVrfromthedriver’sstate
of license.
Companies who are not subject to the
authority of the DOT should carefully consider
implementing some form of annual review.
This may be as simple as obtaining an updated
MVrforeachdriverorasextensiveasholding
a formal performance review, including annual
road tests designed to validate behind-the-
wheel performance.
Ongoing training is also helpful in main-
taining safety awareness among drivers.
Training can take many forms:
• SkilltrainingdeliveredviacD(forthe
employee to listen to while operating
thevehicle)
• Videotrainingprograms(inthe
classroom)
• Self-ledtrainingprograms(athome)
• oralpresentationsbymanagementora
technicalexpert(intheclassroom)
Safetyposters,newsletterstodriversand
safety announcements in payroll checks can
also build awareness of the company’s view of
the importance of driver safety. Training shows
a commitment to safety by management, but
attendance should be carefully documented to
verify precisely which drivers actually attended
and/or completed the coursework.
poSt accident revieWS and training
Most companies have established spe-
cificaccidentreportingprocedures.Typically,
a driver completes a record-keeping kit at
the scene of the collision and then reports
the details of the crash to a supervisor at the
headquarterslocation.Follow-upinvestiga-
4 8 | MARCH.11
tions may be completed by special teams, com-
mittees,specially-trainedmanagersorexperts.
Although the purpose of these investi-
gations is not to establish blame or fault, the
records associated with the investigation may
appear to do so. These records could become evi-
dence, especially if the driver in question has had
multiple accidents which have been investigated.
The process is important to improving
safety by understanding why accidents hap-
pen. The investigations should not be aban-
doned simply because the report may be dis-
coverable.investigatorsshouldexhibitcare
when documenting their case to avoid misin-
terpretationandkeepthefileanditscontents
confidential.Additionally,whenitbecomes
clearthatalawsuitisbeingfiled,therecords
should be secured to ensure their availability.
The results of any investigation should be
carefully considered by management. If a gap
in safety procedures is found, an action plan
tocorrectthedeficiencyshouldbemadeand
carried out. Ignoring the report’s conclusions
invites trouble by potentially painting a pic-
ture to which management may be indifferent.
If the driver was responsible for the acci-
dentandspecificbehaviorsoralackofknowl-
edgeorabilitywasinvolved,adriver-specific
action plan should be devised and imple-
mented. This might include driver training
or coaching by a supervisor. Again, to ignore
skillorknowledgegapsmayreflectpoorlyon
management’s commitment to safety.
WHat about contracted eMployeeS,
loanS of veHicleS and uSe by
non-eMployeeS?
Contract employees, occasional employee
drivers and non-employees who operate com-
pany-ownedorleasedvehiclescouldexposea
company to allegations of negligent entrust-
ment.Examplesofthistypeofsituationcould
include:
• atemporaryemployee(froman
employmentservice)whomakes
deliveries
• amaintenancecontractorwhoneedsto
run out for a part or to another location
to do work
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• transportationoperationswhocontract
with the owner or run on other
companies’ DOT rights
• loaningacompany-owneddelivery
vehicle on the weekend to help with a
household move to a new residence
• permittingspousesofemployeestouse
company cars
iftheseexposuresexist,itisrecommended
that companies adequately qualify operators
of work vehicles and restrict those who are
considered incompetent from driving such
vehicles. Companies should take action to
correct all situations involving a driver with a
poorrecord.Byallowingadriverwithapoor
record to operate company-owned vehicles,
thefinancialhealthofthecompanyisatrisk.
Paul Zeni is the vice president of CSDA member company Apollo General Insurance Agency, Inc., a full service commercial insurance broker and managing general underwriter based in Sonoma, California. For more information, visit www.apgen.com or contact Zeni directly at 707-996-2912 or by email at paulz@apgen.com.
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James Instruments Introduces Chlorimeter™James Instruments Inc., manufacturers of non-destructive test equipment
for construction materials, announces the launch of the Chlorimeter™ field
test for the determination of chloride ion content in concrete, fresh cement,
masonry, other construction materials and water. This unit has improved
features from its predecessors. The Chlorimeter™ covers a wide range, from
0.002 percent to 2 percent chloride by weight and results can be identified
within minutes at the job site. The unit has an internal memory to store
readings for later upload to a computer via USB and has a digital display in
English and Spanish for direct reading of percentage of chloride by weight.
The meter conforms to AASHTO-T-260 standards. For more information, visit www.ndtjames.com or call 773-463-6565.
New Appointment for K2 DiamondK2 Diamond is pleased to announce the return of
Cliff Hansen to the company. Hansen has been in the
concrete sawing and drilling industry for over 40 years,
working for Felker, Cushion Cut and K2 Diamond
until his retirement from the industry five years
ago. Based in Torrance, California, Hansen will be
involved in customer service, manufacturing and sales
at the company’s main office. His years of industry
experience provide him with a great knowledge
of products, applications and service. For more information, contact Hansen at 800-539-6116 or by email at cliff.hansen@k2diamond.com.
Husqvarna Introduces Automatic Drilling System
The new AD 10 automatic drilling unit from
Husqvarna Construction Products works in
conjunction with the company’s drill motors and
DS 450 drill stand. Features of the AD 10 include
a variable speed of 0 – 10 feet per minute, in both
directions. While in motion, the unit can sense
when the drill head has gone through the material
and can automatically stop both the power supply
and drilling motor. Operators can remain upright
instead of bending over to operate the drill which
can be helpful when drilling holes over 6 inches in
diameter. The unit is lightweight and snaps into
place at any angle on the drill in seconds. With the
aid of a controller knob, the operator can direct the
feed rate, direction and power of the AD 10 and the
drill. For more information, call 913-928-1442 or email cate.stratemeier@husqvarna.com.
Gölz Introduces KS 400 Mini Wire SawGölz has produced a portable, compact
wire saw with an adjustable cutting width range
from 12 to 32 inches for small openings. The KS
400 mini wire saw works without high voltage
current or hydraulic power units to reduce
set-up time. The saw was designed around the
established KB 400 drill stand utilizing the
roller carriage and quick disconnect motor. The
KS 400 is driven by a 3.3-kilowatt, 120-volt,
3-speed core drill motor and the wire tension
system is driven by a BorMatic 500 auto
feed. An 8.8-millimeter (0.4-inch) wet or dry
diamond wire has been specially designed for
this system, which requires approximately 15
feet of diamond wire in order to make 32-inch
by 32-inch openings, similar to egress windows.
For more information, call 573-445-8587 or visit www.goelz-online.com to watch a video demonstration.
www.CSDA.ORG
I N D U S T R Y B I T S
Sensors & Software Introduces Noggin 100 for Concrete StructuresSensors & Software’s Noggin 100 scanning tool is now available. The unit has been
developed to aid contractors in the investigation of voids or changes in composition. The
unit can be used in large scale concrete structures such as dams or spillways. The Noggin
100 operates with a frequency 10 to 20 times lower than other concrete imaging ground
penetrating radar equipment, delivering lower resolution but increased penetration and
rapid coverage of large areas. The SmartCart and SmartTow configurations provide
complete, integrated mapping solutions. Geo-referenced mapping of large structures can be
achieved with full digital data recording and integration with GPS positioning.
For more information, call 800-267-6013 or email sales@sensoft.ca.
New Fuel-Efficient STIHL Chain Saws STIHL introduces two new compact chain saws. The MS 261 and MS 261 C-Q saws reduce emissions
up to 50 percent and provide up to a 20 percent increase in fuel efficiency as compared to previous models.
The chain saws come equipped with a decompression valve for easier starts and an advanced anti-vibration
system to help reduce user fatigue. The compact, space-saving design of the split-barrel carburetor and the
stainless steel muffler reduce overall weight. Captive bar nuts are retained in the sprocket
cover to prevent their loss and are designed for self-guided mounting.
Pre-separation air filtration provides greater air cleaning efficiency and
longer run times between filter maintenance. The MS 261 C-Q also
includes STIHL Quickstop® Plus, an additional chain braking system
designed to stop the chain in less than one second of releasing the rear handle.
For more information, contact Anita Gambill at 757-486-9151 or email anita.gambill@stihl.us.
New Website Launched by Expert EquipmentExpert Equipment Company, based in Houston, Texas, launched its new website in
January. The site features information on all of the company’s sawing and drilling products
and accessories, together with data sheets, spare parts lists and C.E. declaration documents
that are available to download. Expert Equipment is the exclusive distributor of Cardi
products in North America. For more information, visit www.expertequipment.com or call 713-797-9886.
New Diamond Blade Lineup from BoschBosch has created a high-performance diamond blade lineup.
The blades deliver up to five times longer life and 20 percent more
speed than standard diamond blades. The new blade formulations are
specially designed for concrete, tile and hard material applications.
The blades feature segmented rims designed for fast, rough cuts in
concrete, brick and pavers. Industrial diamond and metal matrix
segments extend the overall life and performance of the blade, and
an upgraded usable segment rim height provides consistent cutting
depth. The blades are available in sizes from 4 to 14 inches in
diameter for use with grinders, paver and tile saws and high-speed
gas-powered saws. For more information, call 877-267-2499 or visit www.boschtools.com.
COnCRete OpeninGS | 5 1
5 2 | MARCH.11
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G & S Concrete Cutting Appoints New Operations Manager
CSDA member G & S
Concrete Cutting of Rockville,
Maryland, is pleased to
announce the appointment
of Paul Rivera as its new
operations manager. He will be
responsible for the company’s
concrete cutting and selective
demolition projects in the
Washington DC and Baltimore
metropolitan areas. Rivera
brings many years experience to
G & S, having previously owned
PMR Construction Services
and also worked for the Virginia
office of Penhall Company. For more information, call Rivera at 240-565-1223 or email privera@gands.us.
Wolverine Equipment Announces New Hydraulic Power PackWolverine Equipment introduces the WP-18 power pack, the smallest portable hydraulic
power pack in the Wolverine line. At just 330 pounds, the WP-18 is a lightweight, but sturdy,
portable unit. The 18-horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine has an adjustable flow rate of 5
or 8 gpm at pressures up to 2,000 psi. Key features include an automatic low oil level shut-
off sensor, a spin-on hydraulic filter for continuous cleaning of the hydraulic fluid and foam-
filled tires that will never go flat. The WP-18 is suitable for use with low gpm handsaws,
chain saws, ring saws, breakers and other handheld hydraulic tools. For more information, contact Tom Monaghan at 561-994-2750 or tom@wolverineequipment.com.
Hilti Unveils TE 3000-AVR BreakerDesigned for heavy breaking applications and demolition work at floor
level, Hilti unveils its newest electro pneumatic tool, the TE 3000-AVR breaker.
Weighing 65 pounds, the TE 3000-AVR delivers 50 foot-pounds of impact energy
to break up to six tons of material per hour, at rate comparable with a 60- to
65-pound air tool. The breaker does not require an air compressor and accepts
standard 1-1/8-inch chisels. The TE 3000-AVR incorporates Hilti’s active vibration
reduction (AVR) system to decrease vibration passed along to the operator.
An active cooling system reduces wear and tear on the motor, electronics and
hammering mechanism. Plus, the TE 3000-AVR features a brushless SR motor
that eliminates the need to replace carbon brushes. For more information, contact Hilti customer service at 800-879-8000 in the U.S., 800-461-3028 in Canada or visit www.us.hilti.com in the U.S. or www.hilti.ca in Canada.
Rivera
COnCRete OpeninGS | 5 3www.CSDA.ORG
I N D U S T R Y B I T S
MIT Announces Groundbreaking Research to Set New Standard for Life-Cycle Assessment
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has released preliminary
research findings that will help set a new standard in life-cycle assessment (LCA)
modeling. The studies, which are part of an ongoing research initiative at the MIT
Concrete Sustainability Hub, will quantify the cradle-to-grave environmental costs of
paving and building materials and will ultimately result in the most comprehensive
LCA model produced to date.
The scope and detail of MIT’s LCA model will set its current efforts apart
from previous work. According to MIT professor and research team leader John
Ochsendorf, the expanded life-cycle window—50 years for paving materials and 75
years for building materials—combined with the level of detailed analysis conducted on
the use phase of structures and pavements will distinguish MIT’s latest research. Initial
reports have shown the importance of including the use phase, with MIT researchers
finding that more than 90 percent of residential building life-cycle carbon emissions
and up to 85 percent of highway pavement emissions occur during this period.
MIT’s ongoing work on measuring the life-cycle carbon emissions of these
materials is scheduled to be completed by August of this year. The environmental
findings will then be supplemented by economic analyses this year to provide the most
accurate assessment of the economic and environmental impacts for buildings and
pavements yet produced. As policymakers and political leaders work to account for the
environmental and economic costs of public building and paving projects, this type of
comprehensive costing model of key materials may provide a roadmap to those who
plan these major initiatives.
Established in 2009, MIT’s Concrete Sustainability Hub is a collaborative effort
to integrate the best science on concrete and similar building materials into industry
practices. The hub includes researchers from multiple schools at MIT, including MIT’s
School of Engineering and MIT’s School of Architecture and Planning. For more information, visit http://web.mit.edu/cshub.
Diamond Innovations Announces Leadership Change
Diamond Innovations announces that Tanya
Fratto has left her position as the president and
CEO effective December 31, 2010, a position she
held for over a decade.
Mark Schweizer,
previous the CEO
of Sunpower, Inc. in
Athens, Ohio, succeeds
Fratto. A 20-year
veteran of General
Electric Company,
Fratto joined Diamond
Innovations in July
2000. During much
of her tenure she was
focused on building relationships with Diamond
Innovations customers in Europe, Asia, and
the Americas. Schweizer officially became the
president and CEO of Diamond Innovations
on January 3, 2011. For more information, contact Libby Culley at 614-418-2379 or email libby.culley@diamondinnovations.com.
New Dyma-Sert Accessory from EDCOEquipment Development Co., Inc. introduces
a new addition to its range of PCD Dyma-Sert
accessories for concrete floor grinders. The new
Dyma-Sert uses polycrystalline diamonds to
aggressively strip hard and soft coatings from concrete
surfaces. The accessory can strip thick coatings
of urethane, waterproofing membrane and epoxy
in response to customers asking the company to
incorporate polycrystalline diamonds into its line.
The new Dyma-Sert is compatible with existing
holding cases and can be used with EDCO 2GC,
2EC and SEC grinders, as well as several grinders
from other manufacturers. The maximum speed for
EDCO concrete floor grinders is 562 rpm when using
the Dyma-Sert. For more information, email jstanczyk@edcoinc.com or call 800-638-3326.
New EZ Tension™ System from Diamond Chain InternationalDiamond Chain International introduces EZ TensionTM, a unique handle system
that attaches directly to concrete chainsaws. This innovation allows the operator
to tension the chain without turning off the saw. The operator takes off the cover,
unscrews the bolts and moves the guide bar before adjusting the chain manually and
closing up the saw. The EZ TensionTM is a small, sturdy two handle system that attaches
to any chain saw. The tensioning kit comes with all necessary parts and no changes
are necessary to existing chain saws. The EZ TensionTM maintains the proper tension
throughout the life of the chain, producing longer chain life, less down time and a faster
cutting chain. For more information, call 877-778-3765 or visit www.dciconcretechain.com.
Schweizer
5 4 | MARCH.11
I N D U S T R Y B I T S
Star Diamond Tools, Inc. Supplies Negative Air Machine
Star Diamond
Tools, Inc., a
distributor of
Novatek products,
is pleased to stock
the Novair F2100
air scrubber and
negative air machine.
The unit has a 2-horsepower, 115-volt, 15-amp motor that has
two speeds – 1,000 and 2,000 cubic feet per minute. The F2100
has two pre-filters that protect the main filters and can clear a
10-foot by 20-foot area with a 10-foot ceiling in one minute.
The machine can be placed close to where sweeping, chipping,
drilling or grinding of concrete is required to remove silica, and is
fitted with a vacuum gauge to indicate when filters need cleaning.
Weighing 136 pounds, the unit can be transported by two
operators. For more information, call 800-282-6470 or email john@stardiamondtools.com.
European Diamond University Launched in The Netherlands
To launch the European
Diamond University in The
Netherlands, an event was held
on November 18, 2010 and was
hosted by Carbodiam in Tilly,
Belgium. The university is a
training center aimed at bringing
together key players from the
diamond industry to share
experience and knowledge with others. The event sponsors, Carbodiam,
Eiche, Samedia and Ultradia, launched the event with representatives
from leading organizations in the Dutch diamond tools industry. This
follows similar events to launch the university in Belgium and France
earlier in 2010. Several presentations and roundtable discussions were
held to review current market threats and opportunities relating to health
and safety, sustainable development, local and European Community
norms and the risks associated with non-compliance of new regulations.
The European Diamond University’s training program was also
presented. A testing center has been provided that includes machines,
tools, asphalt, stone and concrete slabs, to allow participants to learn
the best applications from industry experts and engineers. For more information, visit www.eurodiamonduniv.com.
COnCRete OpeninGS | 5 5www.CSDA.ORG
I N D U S T R Y B I T S
Multiquip Introduces Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Light Tower
Multiquip introduces
its first hydrogen fuel
cell-powered light tower,
part of a planned series of
hydrogen fuel cell powered
products. The light tower
is environmentally friendly,
fuel-efficient, virtually
pollution-free, allowing it
to be operated indoors, and
can be operated for up to 50
hours at a noise level of 43
decibels at 23 feet. A plasma
light bulb produces 22,000
lumens, consuming only 255
watts with a life expectancy of
up to 50,000 hours.
For more information, call 800-426-1244 or email sales@multiquip.com.
Bosch Introduces New Brute BreakerThe new Brute BH2760VC breaker hammer from Bosch
is the successor to the 11304 Brute. The new Brute’s hammer
mechanism provides up to 60 percent more impact energy than
the 11304, while reducing vibration levels by up to 50 percent.
Weighing 65 pounds, the BH2760VC delivers up to 68 feet
pounds of impact energy. Using its patented Active Vibration
Control™ technology, Bosch has created a built-in air cushion on
the hammer mechanism to reduce vibration levels at the source
and has added ergonomically-designed shock absorbing handles.
The BH2760VC has heavy duty springs and bolts and a larger
spring dampening system. Bosch’s
Service Minder™ brush system shuts the
tool off when brush replacement,
lubrication or preventative
maintenance is needed and the
breaker has a grease-packed gear
box and hammer mechanism. The new
Brute comes complete with a non-slip
rubber cover to prevent it from tipping while
in storage, a cart and four chisels. For more information, visit www.boschusa.com or call 877-267-2499.
5 6 | MARCH.11
$525 $1,090 $810
$1,375 $1,030
$2,040 $1,525
$2,465
$355 $630
$3,295
$4,420
$5,495
$855
$1,285
$1,730
$2,175
$2,750
CSDA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
$130
PRINCIPAL BUSINESS ACTIVITY
*AFFILIATE: A person, firm, corporation, society, government agency or other organization providing services to the concrete sawing and drilling industry.
C S DA • 1 3 5 7 7 F e at h e r S o u n d d r i v e , S u i t e 5 6 0 , C l e a r w at e r , F l 3 3 7 6 2 t e l : 7 2 7 . 5 7 7 . 5 0 0 4 Fa x : 7 2 7 . 5 7 7 . 5 0 1 2 w w w. C S d a . o r g
COnCRete OpeninGS | 5 7www.CSDA.ORG
t o b e c o m e a c S D a m e m b e r18reasonsNETWORkING AT THE ANNUAL CONVENTION AND SEASONAL MEETINGSthe number one benefit for members has always been the opportunity to network with cutting professionals at the annual convention and seasonal meetings. this networking provides opportunities to forge new relationships and learn from other experienced professionals.
CSDA TRAINING Over 2,000 members have graduated from more than 20 classroom, hands-on and online training programs: Cutting edge, Slab Sawing & Drilling, wall Sawing, wire Sawing, Operator Certification, OSHA Construction Safety and estimating. CSDA offers online training at www.csdatraining.com for those not able to afford the time or the money to send operators to remote classes. Owners/managers can monitor testing, scoring and documentation.
CONCRETE OPENINGS MAGAZINEConcrete Openings (www.concreteopenings.com) is the only professional magazine dedicated to concrete cutting with a circulation of 16,000 per issue. Members can advertise at significant discounts and the opportunity to have their job stories reach over 7,000 architects, engineers, general contractors and government officials.
CSDA INSURANCE PROGRAMthe CSDA insurance program offers members coverage that includes workers’ Compensation, auto, comprehensive general liability, environmental pollution, professional liability, equipment, employment practices Liability (epL) and other lines specifically geared for the concrete cutting industry.
CSDA WEBSITEthe CSDA website at www.csda.org contains a wealth of information available 24/7 in the “Members” section. the online discussion boards provide members a forum to discuss technical issues, sell equipment, hire employees or any other relevant topics.
CSDA SAFETy RESOURCES AND TOOLBOx SAFETy TIPS (TSTS)the 230-page CSDA Safety Manual, CSDA 57-page Safety Handbook and five safety DVDs are designed specifically for concrete cutters and are available to members at a significant discount. tSts can be used in employee safety meetings and can be an important part of your company’s safety program. new tSts are released every quarter.
ROUNDTABLESthe roundtable sessions at the annual convention and other meetings give members a chance to share their wisdom and acquire additional knowledge. information gained during the roundtables gives members new ideas to implement within their companies and can save them money.
FREE WORLD OF CONCRETE REGISTRATIONMembers receive free registration and reduced seminar fees for the industry’s annual exhibition of concrete-related equipment and supplies.
MENTOR PROGRAMnew members can receive personalized assistance from a current CSDA Board or committee member during their first year of membership.
SPECIFICATIONS, STANDARDS, TOLERANCES AND BEST PRACTICESSpecifications, Standards, tolerances and Best practices are available for all types of cutting disciplines. twenty-four documents have been developed and new ones are always in production.
MANUALS AND PROMOTIONAL LITERATUREMembers can market their company with How to Market Your Concrete Cutting Business and make presentations with the Diamond Advantage Seminar Planning & Presentation Manual. Four-color brochures and flyers are available for members to promote their business to customers and are easily personalized so members can avoid the cost of developing their own.
SPECIFIER RESOURCE GUIDE AND MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORythe CSDA Membership Directory is available in print form and on the website. the searchable web directory is especially valuable as the CSDA website averages 150,000 page views per month. the Specifications, Standards, tolerances and Best practice documents are included in the print version of the resource guide and are also available online.
MEMBERSHIP PROFILE ANALySISA periodic survey of members to collect statistical information on operating and financial information such as wages, profit and loss, safety, equipment and diamond tool costs.
SLURRy ANALySIS REPORTthis is an Association-sponsored, 60-page report for members. the slurry analysis was performed by an environmental engineering firm with data compared to federal standards and contains recommended guidelines for slurry management.
REPRESENTATION WITH GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONSCSDA has formed an Alliance with OSHA to advance the safety of cutting contractors. this partnership includes issuing Best practice and toolbox Safety talk documents, joint exhibitions at trade shows, review of safety materials and roundtables. CSDA also actively participates with niOSH on field testing.
DISCOUNT PROGRAMSCSDA offers its members exclusive programs for insurance and online training, plus discounts on freight services, credit collection services, drug testing and safety services.
COOPERATION WITH INDUSTRy ASSOCIATIONSCSDA is a founding member of the international Association of Concrete Drillers and Sawers (iACDS) and works with other associations around the globe to promote concrete cutting and the sustainability of concrete as a building material.
CSDA NExT GENERATION GROUPthe CSDA next Generation group is made up of members and non-members age 45 and under. the purpose of the group is to continue to grow the association while serving the needs and wants of the younger generation with the goal of continuing the excellence of the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association. the group meets during the seasonal meetings, at the annual convention and at the world of Concrete.
5 8 | MARCH.11
Companies listed here have invested time and money to send their operators to CSda’s operator Certification. if you are committed to professionalism in the concrete cutting industry, consider sending your operators through the training programs offered by the Concrete Sawing & drilling association.
CeRTIfIeD OpeRaTOR Companies
A.E. BRICE & ASSOCIATES, INC.1510 aspen St Baltimore, Md 21226tel: 410-354-8890 Fax: 410-354-8894 www.sawconcrete.com
ABC CUTTING CONTRACTORS– BIRMINGHAM3060 dublin Cir Bessemer, al 35022tel: 205-425-7711 Fax: 205-425-7769 www.abccuttingala.com
ABC CUTTING CONTRACTORS–MOBILE26181 equity dr daphne, al 36526tel: 251-625-1100 Fax: 251-625-1103 www.abccuttingala.com
ADVANCED CORING & CUTTING CORP.1766 route 34 Farmingdale, nJ 07727tel: 732-681-7733 Fax: 732-681-8733 www.advancedcoringandcutting.com
AMBERCROFT LABOURERS’ 506 TRAINING CENTRE1600 Major Mackenzie dr e richmond hill, on l4S 1P4Canadatel: 905-883-4268 Fax: 905-883-4894 www.506tc.org
ATLANTIC CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.Po Box 98 Mt. holly, nJ 08060tel: 609-261-7200 Fax: 609-261-7246 www.atlanticconcretecutting.com
B.T. RENTALS LIMITED#13 Buller St woodbrook trinidad & toBagotel: 868-628-2703 Fax: 868-622-4244
CAL WEST CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.1153 vanderbilt Cir Manteca, Ca 95337tel: 209-823-2236 Fax: 209-823-0740 www.calwestconcretecutting.com
CAL WEST CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.3000 tara Ct union City, Ca 94587tel: 510-656-0253 Fax: 510-656-8563 www.calwestconcretecutting.com
CENTRAL CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.w719 leroy St edgar, wi 54426tel: 715-352-2552 Fax: 715-352-2625 www.centralconcretecutting.com
CON-COR COMPANy, INC.w146n5790 enterprise ave Menomonee Falls, wi 53051 tel: 262-781-3660 Fax: 262-252-3832 www.con-cor_co.com
CONCRETE CUTTING & BREAkING CO.11226 Phillips Pkwy dr e #2 Jacksonville, Fl 32256 tel: 904-262-9985 Fax: 904-262-1477 www.concut.com
CONCRETE CUTTING SPECIALISTS, INC.10333 hercules rd Freeland, Mi 48623tel: 989-695-5344 Fax: 989-695-5345
CONCRETE PENETRATING CO.2303 Shorecrest dr dallas, tx 75235tel: 214-634-2990 Fax: 214-634-0953 www.concretepenetrating.com
CONCRETE RENOVATION, INC.6600 randolph Blvd San antonio, tx 78233tel: 210-653-6120 Fax: 210-590-2316 www.concreterenovation.com
CORING & CUTTING SERVICES, INC.1107 n redmond rd Jacksonville, ar 72076tel: 501-779-4072 Fax: 501-985-9781 www.sawconcrete.com
CORING & CUTTING SERVICES, INC.2711 Se otis Corley dr Bentonville, ar 72712tel: 479-271-9672 Fax: 479-271-9674 www.sawconcrete.com
CORING & CUTTING OF SPRINGFIELD, INC.2074 n James river Ct nixa, Mo 65714 tel: 417-725-4534 Fax: 417-725-0073 www.sawconcrete.com
CUT-RITE CONCRETE CUTTING CORP.22 lockbridge St Pawtucket, ri 02860tel: 401-728-8200 Fax: 401-727-2953 www.cutriteccc.com
CUTTING EDGE SERVICES CORP.1535 old S.r. 74 Batavia, oh 45103tel: 513-388-0199 Fax: 513-732-1248 www.cuttingedgeservices.com
DARI CONCRETE SAWING & DRILLING421 raleigh view rd raleigh, nC 27610 tel: 919-278-8145 Fax: 919-772-4311 www.dhgriffin.com
DEANDREA CORING & SAWING, INC.9630 dallas St henderson, Co 80640tel: 303-422-3885 Fax: 303-431-9661 www.deandreacoring.com
DELTA CONTRACTORS & ASSOCIATES, LLC605 S Caton ave Baltimore, Md 21229tel: 410-624-0990 Fax: 410-624-0991 www.deltacontractorsllc.com
DERRICk CONCRETE CUTTING & CONSTRUCTION LTD.7039 gateway Blvd nw edmonton, aB t6h 2J1Canadatel: 780-436-7934 Fax: 780-435-4389 www.derrickconcrete.com
DIxIE CONCRETE CUTTING CO.5297 Port Blvd S College Park, ga 30349tel: 404-761-1100 Fax: 404-669-2550
DIxIE CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.16 Maple Creek Cir greenville, SC 29607tel: 864-299-6600 Fax: 864-299-5009
EAST COAST CONCRETE CUTTING CO., INC.7229 Montevideo rd Jessup, Md 20794tel: 410-799-4540 Fax: 410-799-1978 www.eastcoastconcretecutting.com
EASTERN CONCRETE CUTTING CORP.37-31 29th St long island City, nY 11101tel: 718-361-6123 Fax: 718-361-6101 www.easterncutting.com
GRONEMEIER CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.22 white Pl Bloomington, il 61701tel: 309-829-7991 Fax: 309-829-2685 www.gronemeier.com
HAFNER AND SON, INC.90 atlas rd northampton, Pa 18067tel: 1-800-anChorS Fax: 610-262-4809 www.hafnerandson.com
HARD ROCk CONCRETE CUTTERS, INC.601 Chaddick dr wheeling, il 60090tel: 847-699-0010 Fax: 847-699-0292 www.hardrockconcretecutters.com
COnCRete OpeninGS | 5 9www.CSDA.ORG
HARD ROCk SAWING AND DRILLING SPECIALIST CO.Po Box 718 Keshena, wi 54135tel: 715-799-3823 Fax: 715-831-7840 www.hardrocksawanddrill.com
HOLES INCORPORATED9911 Franklin rd houston, tx 77070tel: 281-469-7070 Fax: 281-469-6207 www.holesinc.com
HOLES OF SAN ANTONIO, INC.118 Braniff dr San antonio, tx 78216tel: 210-349-5256 Fax: 210-349-0727 www.holesofsa.com
INTERNATIONAL DRILLING & SAWING, INC.Po Box 250013 Montgomery, al 36125tel: 334-288-2355 Fax: 334-288-7299 www.idscuts.com
k.C. CORING & CUTTING CONSTRUCTION, INC.7240 Central St Kansas City, Mo 64114tel: 816-523-2015 Fax: 816-523-8493 www.sawconcrete.com
LOMBARDO DIAMOND CORE DRILLING CO., INC.2225 de la Cruz Blvd Santa Clara, Ca 95050tel: 408-727-7922 Fax: 408-988-5326 www.lombardodrilling.com
M6 CONCRETE CUTTING & CORING1030 S McComas St wichita, KS 67213tel: 316-263-7251 Fax: 316-264-3517 www.conacc.com
OkLAHOMA CORING & CUTTING, INC.6025 n douglas Blvd arcadia, oK 73007tel: 405-715-2500 Fax: 405-715-2504 www.sawconcrete.com
PACIFIC CONCRETE CUTTING & CORING, INC.Po Box 662261 lihue, hi 96766tel: 808-245-7171 Fax: 808-245-9393 www.pccchawaii.com
PENHALL COMPANy/CONCRETE CORING COMPANy OF HAWAII99-1026 iwaena St aiea, hi 96701tel: 808-488-8222 Fax: 808-487-6679 www.penhall.com
PROFESSIONAL CONCRETE SAWING8539 oliver rd erie, Pa 16509tel: 814-566-5555 Fax: 814-866-5555
ROUGHNECk CONCRETE DRILLING & SAWING8400 lehigh ave Morton grove, il 60053tel: 847-966-6666 Fax: 847-966-6577 www.roughneck1.com
TRUE-LINE CORING & CUTTING– CHATTANOOGA LLC1903 S highland Park ave Chattanooga, tn 37404 tel: 423-624-7369 Fax: 423-624-7977 www.sawconcrete.com
TRUE-LINE CORING & CUTTING– kNOxVILLE LLC1902 Middlebrook Pike Knoxville, tn 37921tel: 865-637-2131 Fax: 865-637-1973 www.sawconcrete.com
TRUE-LINE CORING & CUTTING– NASHVILLE LLC280 hermitage ave nashville, tn 37210tel: 615-255-2673 Fax: 615-255-9685 www.sawconcrete.com
FS20 Saw w/ Upright Handle Kit
S16 HydraSaw
HV1810XL HydraPak
MiniSaw w/ 13” Bar
CD616HydraCore
Drill
www.rgcproducts.com • 1-800-RGC-TOOL
Visit RGC in
Booth #S10126
at the 2011Con Expo!
6 0 | MARCH.11
CaleNDaR
2011
CSDA SPRING MEETINGSMarch 8-9, 2011hyatt regency Coconut PointBonita Springs, Fltel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
CSDA ESTIMATING CLASSMarch 8-9, 2011hyatt regency Coconut PointBonita Springs, Fltel: 727-577-5004www.csda.orgemail: info@csda.org
CSDA 2011 CONVENTION AND TECH FAIRMarch 10-12, 2011hyatt regency Coconut PointBonita Springs, Fltel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
CONCRETE DéCOR SHOWMarch 15-18, 2011Nashville Convention Centernashville, tntel: 877-935-8906www.ConcretedecorShow.com
CONExPO/CONAGG 2011March 22-26, 2011las vegas Convention Centerlas vegas, nvtel: 414-298-4138www.conexpoconagg.com
BRAZIL ROAD ExPO 2011april 4-6, 2011Sao Paulo, Brazilwww.brazilroadexpo.com.bremail: info@brazilroadexpo.com.br
CSDA SLAB SAWING AND DRILLING 101 TRAINING CLASSapril 5-7, 2011diamond Productselyria, ohiotel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
FASTENERS & MACHINE SUPPLIES SHOW 2011april 15-17, 2011Cairo International Convention CenterCairo, egyptemail: info@gtexeg.comwww.gtexeg.com
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONCRETE DRILLERS AND SAWERS ANNUAL CONFERENCEMay 6-8, 2011Brugge, Belgiumwww.iacds.org
CSDA SUMMER MEETINGSJune 9-10, 2011hyatt regency tulsatulsa, oKtel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
INTERNATIONAL CONCRETE SUSTAINABILITy CONFERENCEaugust 9-11, 2011Boston, Matel: 847-918-7218email: llemay@nrmca.org
CSDA FALL MEETINGS august 18-19, 2011 hyatt regency vancouvervancouver, Canadatel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
ACCESS PLATFORM ExHIBITION AND CONFERENCESeptember 14-16, 2011Maastricht exhibition and Conference CentreMaastricht, the netherlandswww.apexshow.com
CSDA OPERATOR CERTIFICATION 201november 14-19, 2011St. Petersburg CollegeClearwater, Fltel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
CSDA ESTIMATING CLASSnovember 15-16, 2011St. Petersburg CollegeClearwater, Fltel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
CSDA WINTER MEETINGSdecember 1-2, 2011The Canyons ResortPark City, uttel: 727-577-5004www.csda.org email: info@csda.org
2012
CSDA 2012 CONVENTIONMarch 7-9, 2012 Sheraton Maui lahaina, hawaii tel: 727-577-5004 www.csda.org
NATIONAL DEMOLITION ASSOCIATION 2012 CONVENTIONMarch 11-14, 2012 the henry B. gonzalez Convention Center & grand Hyatt Hotel San antonio, tx tel: 800-541-2412 www.demolitionassociation.com
the Concrete Sawing & drilling association is a nonprofit trade association of contractors, manufacturers, distributors and affiliates from the construction and renovation industry. Membership in CSda is open to concrete cutting contractors, manufacturers and distributors
of concrete cutting equipment and affiliated companies who provide products and services to the concrete sawing and drilling industry. Founded in 1972, CSda reached the milestone of 500 member companies in 2006.
www.CSDA.ORG COnCRete OpeninGS | 6 1
My company is now celebrating its 24th
year in business. For the majority of this
time, I have been a member of CSDA.
Recently I was asked to ponder what
made me join CSDA when the business
was just getting started and, more
importantly, why I am still a member.
From the beginning, I saw tremendous
value in networking with industry
leaders. I sought knowledge, and the members of CSDA were
willing to openly share their knowledge with me. After a few years,
I felt I had learned all the industry secrets, made connections and
traveled more than I felt I deserved. So, why didn’t I just sit back,
read my free issues of Concrete Openings and enjoy life listening
to Jimmy Buffet? Because I truly began reaping the rewards of
CSDA membership when I got involved at conventions, joined committees
and became a member of the Board.
Having been given the opportunity to give back to CSDA and the industry,
I felt the real value of the association. Over the years, I have seen progressive
programs implemented, key business leaders volunteer their time, industry
experts offer their knowledge to better the sawing and drilling industry for
all and friendships develop at CSDA events and activities. In fact, some of
my closest friendships have been made through the association. So, why am I
still a member now? It is more important now then ever to have all the right
tools to run a successful business. I believe you can get most of them through
CSDA, and the association is open for business!
Jim Dvoratchek Hard rock concrete cutters, Inc. Wheeling, Illinois email: jimd@hardrockconcretecutters.com
Jim Dvoratchek
Why I Stay a Member
NeW members
North American ContractorBERNARD CONCRETE CUTTING richard Bernard 1441 gest St Cincinnati, oh 45203 tel: 513-421-1950 Fax: 513-421-0098 email: tiffanybinz@gmail.com www.bernardconcretecutting.com
CENCAL DEMOLITION, INC.Michael gonzales3299 S Cedar aveFresno, Ca 93725tel: 559-291-3366Fax: 559-291-3369email: mikeg@cencaldemo.comwww.cencaldemo.com
CONCRETE CORING COMPANy, INC.larry treadway 286 Bonniebrook rd Butler, Pa 16002 tel: 724-283-9030 Fax: 724-283-3056 email: larry@concretecoringinc.com www.concretecoringinc.com
G SEVENgeno Cotrone19751 hwy 108Sonora, Ca 95370tel: 209-743-2529Fax: 209-532-2277email: geno.cotrone@yahoo.com
INTERSTATE SEALANT & CONCRETE, INC.Cheryl Sment108a wilmont drwaukesha, wi 53189tel: 262-547-6316Fax: 262-547-6844email: csment@interstatesealant.comwww.interstatesealant.com
MARVEL BUILDERS, INC.Bruce Marvel102 Pigeon Creek lnPottstown, Pa 19465tel: 610-469-2787email: marvelbuilders@yahoo.comwww.marvelbuildersinc.com
NATIONAL CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.Matthew Finnigan7715 Pacific highway eastMilton, wa 98354tel: 800-551-0511Fax: 253-735-6777email: matthewf@nationalconcretecuttinginc.comwww.nationalconcretecuttinginc.com
PG CUTTING SERVICESJuan garciaPo Box 695lake elsinore, Ca 92531tel: 951-245-6464Fax: 951-471-1476email: juan.garcia@pgcutting.comwww.pgcutting.com
QUICk CUTTING AND CORING LTD.Christopher galka661 newport avevictoria, BC v8S 5C6Canadatel: 250-888-1829Fax: 250-382-2742email: quickcut@telus.netwww.quickcut.ca
Overseas ContractorATOMTECH INFORMATION CO., LTD. Charles Ho no. 257 Sanmin rd Chionglin village Chionglin village, hsinchu 30741 taiwan tel: 886-3 592 4920 Fax: 886-3 592 4011 email: charles.atom@msa.hinet.net
CONQUEST CUTTING & DRILLING PTy LTD.anthony PercyFact. 11 / 13 Molan Stringwood, viC 3134 AUSTRALIAtel: 61-03 9879 1918Fax: 61-03 9870 8894email: conquestadmin@bigpond.comwww.conquestcutting.com
M HALL SERVICES LTD.Sean Finch 11 the leysings Basildon, essex SS16 5Sl united KingdoM tel: 44-12 6845 0473 email: sfinch@mhallservices.co.uk www.mhallservices.co.uk
AffiliateHARD ROCk TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Emily Hammer 200 South Pkwy Prospect heights, il 60070 tel: 847-275-4007 email: emily@hardrocktechnologies.com www.hardrocktechnologies.com
ManufacturerPRISM CORPORATIONterry Fenelon1251 arundel StSt. Paul, Mn 55117tel: 651-488-4250Fax: 651-488-6091email: tfenelon@prismpigments.comwww.prismpigments.com
DistributorDITEQ TOOLS (M) SDN. BHD.Alan Tan18, Jalan Kuchai Maju 6, off Jalan Kuchai Lama58200 Kuala lumpurMALAYSIAtel: 60-3 7987 8770email: alan@coolman.com.mywww.coolman.com.my
6 2 | MARCH.11
5 Brokk, inc. 800-621-7856 henrik@brokkinc.com27 Company wrench 740-654-5304 katie@companywrench.com39 Congelz 888-440-4250 tfenelon@prismpigments.com61 Diamond pauber srl 39-05 85 830425 info@diamondpauber.it 54, 55, inside Front Cover Diamond products 800-321-5336 jpalmer@diamondproducts.com41 Diamond tools technology 612-408-9253 roger@diamondtoolstechnology.com 15 Diamond Vantage, inc. 816-268-8310 info@diamondvantage.com 29 DiteQ Corporation 816-246-5515 jmiller@diteq.com9 expert equipment Company 713-797-9886 expertequipment@sbcglobal.net 25 Geophysical Survey Systems, inc. (GSSi) 603-893-1109 harmonj@geophysical.com48 Gölz Diamond tools & equipment 49-171 5677701 golzusa@goelz-online.com44 Grabber power products 480-967-2545 jorge@grabberpower.com inside Back Cover Hilti north America 918-872-3553 bennett.myers@hilti.com 32, 33, Outside Back Cover Husqvarna Construction products 913-928-1442 cate.stratemeier@husqvarna.com 2 iCS, Blount inc. 503-653-4644 joet@icsbestway.com 52 James instruments, inc. 773-463-6565 angie@ndtjames.com22 MALA Geoscience 843-852-5021 sales.usa@malags.com 23 norton pro Diamond 800-854-3281 stephen.m.anderson@saint-gobain.com 31 pentruder, inc. 562-445-6429 terry@pentruderinc.com59 Reimann & Georger Corporation 716-895-1156 peter.kowalczyk@rgcproducts.com45 Sensors & Software 905-624-8909 sales@sensoft.ca 49 toolgal USA Corp/DCi 706-283-9556 admin@toolgalusa.com 11 western Saw 805-981-0999 cole@westernsaw.com
paGe aDVeRTISeR pHONe eMaIl to receive additional information about products advertised in this issue, visit the advertisers page on concreteopenings.com, or contact the vendors below.
Want to Target the Specialized Industry of Sawing & Drilling?Advertising in Concrete Openings magazine is the only way to reach the specialty market of sawing and drilling contractors who cut concrete, asphalt or masonry because it is the only magazine in the market specifically targeted to this segment of the sawing and drilling industry.
How Do You Reach 16,000+ Sawing and Drilling Professionals?each issue of Concrete Openings magazine is sent to more than 9,500 sawing and drilling operators, manufacturers of sawing and drilling equipment and suppliers to the industry and more than 6,500 specifiers of concrete cutting services around the world.
Who Reads the Magazine?Concrete Openings reaches sawing and drilling contractors, as well as specifiers of sawing and drilling 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.
Circulation 16,000+ minimum, per issue
9,500+ member and prospective member companies made up of sawing and drilling contractors,manufacturers, distributors and affiliates
6,500+ general contractors, engineers, architects and government officials who specify sawing and drilling
Concrete Openings WebsiteConcrete 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 copy of the magazine 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 advertising opportunities available throughout the year. Visit www.concreteopenings.com for more information.
Readership Per Issuein a recent poll, a section 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 3.75 people reading each issue of the magazine for a total readership per year of approximately 60,000.
ReaDeRSHIp BY pROfeSSION
• Specifiers
• cutting contractors
• manufacturers, Distributors
• United States
• asia, africa, australia
• europe
• canada, South america
ReaDeRSHIp BY lOCaTION
52%
8%
40%
85%
6%
5%4%
6 4 | MARCH.11
DIReCTOR’S Dialogue
paTRICk O’BRIeN
Executive Director
Outlook for 2011
T he annual world of Concrete trade show is viewed by some
as a precursor for business activity during the year ahead.
while the early January 17-21 world of Concrete saw a lower
total attendance than previous years, the attitude of exhibiting
manufacturers was very positive.
when asked why they were experiencing good sales figures at
the show, manufacturers shared a couple of common theories. Many
felt that while attendance was obviously down, the number of orders
taken at the show was up. the majority of those attending the show
had the authority to make purchases for their companies. in previous
years, when the going was good, a contractor may have taken 6-10
people to the show. two of this group may have been the decision
makers, while the rest were employees being given a reward trip
for their hard work. For this year’s show, however, it was felt that
the two decision makers had still made the trip but the number of
additional people had been cut back drastically. Furthermore, these
decision makers were placing orders.
Some manufacturers also felt that contractors had been
putting off purchasing new equipment during the recent economic
difficulties, but now these contractors could no longer delay acquiring
new equipment. Contractors need to update their inventory to
profitably run their businesses. in addition, manufacturers have
continued to invest in research and development during the
economic downturn. this shows a commitment to the advancement
of the industry and bodes well for the future. For the contractor,
this means access to the latest technologies that can help their businesses
become more competitive when bidding for jobs. the competition for
new business has never been fiercer than it is right now, so the purchase
of new equipment can help a contractor’s business thrive in these current
business challenges, or at least allow it to survive.
Another sign of improvement in the industry is that interest in the
March 10-12, 2011 CSDA Convention in Bonita Springs, Florida, has been
excellent. the CSDA room block has filled quickly, a marked change
from last year, and the association looks forward to hosting a big crowd.
interest in the CSDA tech Fair has also been excellent. new companies
have joined CSDA and are excited to exhibit at this event. Often, smaller
trade shows offer a good alternative for manufacturers that are looking
to reach new clients. exhibit costs are lower than larger shows and a more
intimate setting allows for greater one-on-one interaction between the
manufacturer/distributor and the customer.
Business levels have declined for such a long time and many thought
that lower levels might be the new “norm,” but it seems like we are
definitely closer to the end of these challenging times than the beginning.
while business activity levels in the industry are unlikely to return to the
lofty heights of the past, the outlook seems more positive than it has for
some time. A gradual increase in sales from the start of the year would
seem to reflect this notion. this increase in sales activity, together with the
positive actions and attitudes of many manufacturers, should provide us all
with a new-found confidence in the industry as we continue through 2011.
On behalf of CSDA, i wish you all the best for a successful year.
Hilti Diamond Systems 1-800-879-4000 www.us.hilti.com • en español 1-800-879-5000 • www.hilti.ca
Hilti Lifetime Service
Service that lasts a lifetime.
Hilti. Outperform. Outlast.
If a tool goes down, Hilti understands you need to get it back on the job quickly. That’s why Hilti repairs and returns most tools in less than 5 business days, including transit time. With Hilti Lifetime Service, you incur absolutely no repair costs for up to 2 years or 200 hours from the date of purchase. Industry leading repair service – that’s the Hilti difference.
Taking it to the next level.
HUSQVARNA CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS17400 West 119th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66061 • T 800-845-1312 • F 800-257-92842077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 8J8 • T 800-461-9589 • F 800-728-1907
www.husqvarnacp.comCopyright © 2011 Husqvarna AB (publ.). All rights reserved. Husqvarna is a registered trademark of Husqvarna AB (publ.).
Husqvarna’s extensive line of wall saws ensures there is a saw to meet your needs. Wall sawing involves a lot ofpreparation; Husqvarna makes equipment easy to transport and quick to assemble at the site. Every detail is carefully planned and designed to ensure efficient operation.
Husqvarna’s line of high frequency electric wall saws include the new WS 482 HF and the WS 440 HF. The new WS 482 HF wall saw boasts more power, larger blade size capacity (62") and offers the best power-to-weight ratio on the market. The saw is operated by radio remote control which allows total control of the sawing process and freedom to move around the workplace. The WS 440 HF wall saw features a powerful, water-cooled electric motor that supplies constant high power to the spindle over a wide rpm range for faster and more efficient sawing. The motor generates 17 hp to the shaft, despite the fact that the saw only weighs 55 pounds.
Husqvarna’s WS 460 hydraulic wall saw is built on a modular system where the weight is evenly distributed, making the saw easy to transport, handle and set-up. The two-speed hydraulic motor provides optimal speed depending on material, blade diameter and type of blade.
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