Cutting Tools Cutting tools may be required to cut web stiffeners, straps, blockings, and framing members around openings. The following summarizes the most commonly used cutting tools.

Chop Saw - A chop saw is the most efficient means of cutting steel members. It is a circular saw with an abrasive blade and generally used on the ground. Circular Saws - These are portable hand-held electric power tools with carbide tipped blades. Electric Power Shears - Hand-held tools made to cut thickness’ up to 68 mils. Plasma Cutter - Electric tool that cuts the steel by melting it. The melting is accomplished by producing an arc where the probe is applied. Portable Hydraulic Shear - These are typically found in panelization plants. They use hydraulic force to leave a clean cut. Aviation Snips - Hand held tools that cut steel thickness’ up to 43 mils. They are good for making minor cuts "on-the-go". Quickie Saw - Gas powered saw which is highly mobile.
Other cutting tools such as cut-off saws, power bandsaws, portable power hacksaws, lather’s nibblers, channel stud shears, and power nibblers can also be used. Cutting methods that cause significant heating of the steel or damage to the coatings should only be used when the galvanized coating is repaired.

*TradeReady® Floor System (U.S. Patent #6,301,854 and other Patents Pending)

Dietrich Metal Framing, Inc. Corporate Headquarters 500 Grant Street/Suite 2226 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Phone: (412)281.2805 E-mail: askforhelp@dietrichindustries.com

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