MAXCUT STEALTH-12 OPERATOR’S MANUAL
MAXCUT INC.
Page 18 of 31
MADE IN U.S.A.
6.2.4. Sand Shape - Angular types of sand such as manufactured (crushed) and
bank sand are more abrasive than rounded sand such as river or wind-blown
sand. Angular sands decrease both the segment life and chain life. The
diamond segment bond is abraded at a higher rate. Sharp, fine sand
increases the wear on the chain chassis, especially if the sand penetrates the
rivet joints.
Proper water flow rate is critical in maximizing chain life in
abrasive conditions.
Generally, a harder segment bond is desired for
abrasive conditions.
6.2.5. Compressive Strength of Concrete - Strength of concrete is a combination of
many factors and is usually measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Even
though the compressive strength does not indicate the aggregate hardness,
there is a relationship between the compressive strength and the hardness of
the concrete. A general rule is that the higher the compressive strength, the
harder the concrete. Generally, higher strength concretes decrease expected
chain life.
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH
CONCRETE HARDNESS
CONCRETE STRENGTH (PSI)
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Very Hard
8000 or more
Nuclear Plants
Hard
6000-8000
Bridges, Piers
Medium
4000-6000
Roads
Soft
3000
Sidewalks, Patios
6.2.6. Green or Cured Concrete - A very important material factor is the cure time of
the concrete. Green concrete is fresh poured, typically less than 24 hours. It
is more abrasive because the sand is not fully bonded with the cement and
coarse aggregate. Chain life is decreased in both the chassis joints and
diamond segments. A harder segment bond is desired for abrasive
conditions.
6.3. OPERATIONAL FACTORS AFFECTING CHAIN LIFE
There are eight operational factors affecting chain life which are summarized as follows:
6.3.1. Water Flow Rate -
The water flow rate to the chain is a critical factor in
both the segment life and chain life.
Water is the system coolant and
flushing agent for grit and particulate. It is important to note that the required
water flow is the flow to the chain and not the flow from the hose or water
supply. Water leaks or plugged water orifices may actually decrease the flow
to the chain. The minimum water flow to the chain is 2.5 gpm from the guide
bar at a minimum pressure of 30 psi. It is recommended to use higher water
pressure if possible for abrasive conditions.
Insufficient water supply decreases chain life two (2) ways:
Chassis wear or ―stretch‖ is increased, resulting in wearing out of the
chassis rivets and/or drive link holes.
Segment bond wear is increased due to the abrasive slurry not being
flushed out.