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Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2007 10:21 pm
by Damian_30
Hi,
I've hired a Norton Mini Clipper to cut some 200mm x 100mm black limestone pavers.
I'm having a bit of trouble though as the first couple I've tried to cut have shattered after cutting about halfway through. I'm sure that it is probably a technique issue - I'm not sure whether I'm putting too much pressure on the blade.
I've also noticed that the blade doesn't cut totally square which makes it difficult when trying to fit each block flush together. I guess this is why it is best to aim the cut at an inward angle?
Any advice or tips on using this tool would be much appreciated - I can't afford to waste too many more pavers!
Many thanks,
Damian
Posted: Mon Oct 01, 2007 10:57 am
by Tony McC
No need to cut all the way through. Just cut a nick approx 6-10mm deep and the pavers should snap when clonked on the base with a brick hammer.
Don't force the blade: just allow it to "eat" its way into the stone with minimal pressure.
Posted: Mon Oct 01, 2007 2:47 pm
by Damian_30
Thanks Tony...
Daft question though - how do you ensure you get a clean break using this approach. Is that why it is better to angle the saw into the paver so that you get the break inwards? I guess if it is still not a clean enough cut you get a chisel out!
Changing subject a little, I am also trying to core drill these limestone pavers to fit some LEDs. Unfortunately it is only a TCT cutter and it is taking forever drilling on a rotary setting. Can you get away with carefully using a hammer action with these blades?
Many thanks as ever.
Damian
Posted: Tue Oct 02, 2007 12:34 am
by Mikey_C
IMHO, it "may" speed up the process of core drilling, but it will "definitely" shorten the life of the core drill.
Posted: Tue Oct 02, 2007 12:38 am
by matt h
how big are the leds? Suggest you get a diamond tipped tile cutting bit, or core drill, remembering to keep the cutting edges wet. It'll still take an age but the results should be worth it 
Posted: Tue Oct 02, 2007 10:28 am
by Rich H
Usually you can switch to hammer after you're about 25% in.
I'd follow matt's advice though and use a diamond corer.
If they are spring clip LED's you can just go through, if they are close-fit cylinders make sure you go through square or the bezel won't sit flush.
Posted: Tue Oct 02, 2007 6:46 pm
by Damian_30
Hi,
Thanks all for the replies.
The barrel of the LEDs (no spring clips) is 31.5mm, although they cover 40mm. I got the core drill (31.5mm) on the basis that it was designed specifically for the LEDS. Its a good point about not drilling straight and the LEDs not fitting flush, although it took that long to drill the first couple of holes that they have gone a couple of mm larger than 31.5mm.
I have seen a 32mm diamond core drill but only have 6 holes to go - is it probably worth putting up with the TCT cutter? If I did, do you need to keep these cutters wet or to you core dry only?
Many thanks again,
Damian