Yes, there is, it is called a plasma torch. About 10 feet long with intense
flames coming out the end. It is used in demolition to slice through
concrete and steel. Not much good for a 3 foot square in the middle of a
finished room though!


"miamicuse" wrote in message
...
There is no new technology to cut through concrete? No laser beam cutter
or
something along that line?

MC



"~^Johnny^~" wrote in message
...
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On Wed, 27 Jul 2005 22:29:38 -0400, "miamicuse"
wrote:

I am exploring cutting a 36"x36" hole through the 8" concrete slab
in my kitchen to access a sewer line for repair.

Called a few concrete contractors and one told me he will use a
jackhammer to punch the hole (cost $300) and the other told me he
will use a saw (cost $500). The jackhammer will probably spray dust
in all directions and shake loose some copper pipes in walls. The
saw will make a clean cut according to the contractor but he told me
"imagine starting a motor cycle immersed in a mud puddle"...this
does not sound promising. Is there a way to do this to minimize
dust and mess? I am willing to pay a bit more for a cleaner
procedure.

Also, if they use a saw, does it mean it is a big mean machine they
will move from my door to the kitchen and along the way it may
scratch the tiles along it's path?


Been there. Worst plumbing job I had was when I replaced cast iron
DWV in a laundromat w/concrete floor. Had to dig a ditch. Hired a
helper and used two jackhammers. Couldn't fool around - had to get
the job done.

A 90 lb hammer is definitely faster, because you ain't taking a 3x3
foot slab out in one piece, anyway. The hammer on the concrete,
and acetylene on the rebar. There is going to be dust. Wet saw will
minimize the airborne dust, but will make much mud. Very messy,
and worse to clean up.

Yes, they should hang dust curtains and use positive ventilation.
This keeps the mess in the work area.

Of course, you could chisel it out by hand... ;-



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--
-john
wide-open at throttle dot info