FAQs

MaxCut chains are designed to be run in either direction.

The water flow rate is critical for flushing the slurry out of the components. Water also acts as a coolant for the entire system. If an inadequate water flow rate is used it may result in premature wearing of the drive links and rivets. This results in a phenomenon referred to as “chassis stretch”. The recommended water flow is 2.5 GPM (9.5 LPM) with a minimum pressure of 30 PSI (2.1 BAR).

Yes it is normal to see grooves form in the teeth of the Drive Sprocket. This is caused by contact between the Drive Sprocket and the Drive Links on the chain. When the grooves exceed 1/32” which is approximately half way through the tooth, damage to the chain chassis may occur. MaxCut Drive Sprockets are designed to be flipped over to use the opposite side of the tooth which provides more use of the product. This is true for all of the sprockets except for flush cut sprockets. These are designed to be used on one side only.

Every time you replace the chain, you should inspect the sprocket.

As a general guideline:

• Hydraulic chainsaws:replace the sprocket approximately every 4 chains
• Gas chainsaws:replace the sprocket approximately every 2–3 chains

Replace the sprocket sooner if you notice:

• Hooked or worn teeth
• Excessive vibration or chain slipping
• Cracks or breaks on the drive links

Using a worn sprocket can damage the chain and create safety hazards. If you see cracks or breaks on the drive links, it usually means the sprocket should have been replaced at least one chain earlier.

Yes. Diamond chains can cut rebar sizes #4 or #5 (12–15 mm) without any issue.
Rebar sizes above #8 (25 mm) can be more difficult and may significantly reduce cutting efficiency.

⚠️ Important Warning:
Rebar or steel must always be surrounded by concrete or aggregate material. Cutting exposed steel without surrounding material can damage the chain and create a serious safety hazard.

The lifespan of a diamond chain depends on several factors, including the material being cut, the type of chain, the operator’s experience, and the amount of rebar present.

As a general guideline, a diamond chain used on a gas-powered saw will typically cut 45–85 linear feet in 6-inch (15 cm) concrete. When used on a hydraulic saw, chain life is often approximately doubled due to smoother, more consistent power delivery.

Normally two chains when cutting concrete, brick, natural
stone. However, heavy rebar can shorten bar life.

No. Concrete cutting chainsaws are strictly wet-cut systems.

A minimum water pressure of 20 PSI is required to properly cool the chain, flush debris from the cut, and ensure safe operation. Using insufficient water can cause the chain to overheat, break, and wear segments prematurely, making the cut more difficult and increasing the risk of equipment damage or injury.

No. Kickback is primarily associated with wood-cutting chains, which have sharp, hooked teeth that can grab the material and cause sudden upward motion.

Diamond chains cut differently. They grind through concrete using small diamond segments, not hooked teeth. Because of this design, kickback is not an issue with diamond chains.

The preferred method for starting a cut is to plunge straight into the wall, which is safe and effective when using a diamond concrete cutting chain.

Cutting speed depends on several factors, including the material being cut, the type of chain used, the operator’s experience, and the amount of rebar present.

As a general guideline, gas-powered concrete cutting chainsaws can typically cut 1 linear foot at a depth of 6 inchesin approximately 2 minutes. Hydraulic saws are generally faster due to more consistent power and torque.

Proper chain tension is critical for optimal cutting performance and chain life.

As a general rule, a correctly tensioned diamond chain should not be overly tight and should move freely around the guidebar by hand without binding. If the chain is too tight, it can cause excessive wear and reduce performance; if too loose, it may derail or cut inefficiently.

Proper Chain Tension

No. Wood-cutting chainsaws are not designed for concrete cutting. They do not have a hollow guide bar water delivery system, modified air filtration, or proper sealing required to handle concrete dust and slurry.

Using a diamond chain on a wood-cutting chainsaw can cause serious damage to the saw and create safety risks for the operator.

Yes, and any other hydraulic power source that puts out 8 or 12 gpm and 2500 psi (30 liters and 172 bar). However, a flow adapter may be required since some equipment operates with higher flow rates.