Rebar plays a crucial part in ensuring that the tension and compression of concrete remain equal. Steel rebars are usually cut into long lengths, meaning you’ll have to adjust it to your project. Fortunately, doing that isn’t challenging, as rebar is very easy to cut and bend.
That is, of course, if you know how to do it correctly. Despite being an easy task, you need to implement some safety measures and cutting techniques when doing it. There’s also special equipment involved.
If you’re interested in learning more, keep reading. In the article below, you’ll find all the information on how to cut rebar and some useful tips and tricks to help make your work easier and more effective.
Choose the Right Tool
The first thing you have to do is picking your rebar cutting tool. And when it comes to that, there are several options you can choose from. Each one of them requires slightly different safety precautions and cutting techniques, so make sure you pick the tool you’ll be able to operate.
Rebar Cutter
Rebar cutters are exactly what you think they are. If you’ve ever been to a construction site, you’ve probably seen one yourself. And while professionals mostly use them, nothing stands in the way for you to try it out yourself.
Of course, there are some things you need to remember when using it. First of all, make sure you’re in the right position. Keep the balance and grab the cutter firmly. Also, bear in mind that rebar cutters can be used to maximum Grade 60 steel reinforcing bars.
Aside from that, cutting rebar with a cutter doesn’t differ much from the other tools you can use.
Angle Grinder
An angle grinder with a cutting wheel is a fantastic choice when it comes to dealing with rebar. However, when it comes to grinders, you must pick the right type. The best idea is to get the standard 4 to 4,5-inch tool to handle most cutting jobs, including rebar.
Now, when it comes to cutting with an angle grinder, the first thing is to ensure you use a metal cutting wheel. Secondly, secure the rebar you want to cut by placing it on a clamp or vice. Once everything is in place, you can start working. Approach it directly and make your cut straight down.
It’s the fastest way to get your rebar ready. However, the cuts won’t be very clean.
Power Saw
If you don’t want to invest in a special rebar cutter but still would like to get a better cut than when using an angle grinder, you can use the power saw you have in your garage. A miter saw, chop saw, or circular saw armored in a diamond blade will ensure your cuts are fast and clean.
To cut your rebar with a saw:
- Mark the place of your cut and ensure it’s right under the blade.
- Turn on your saw and start cutting.
- Make sure you don’t apply any excessive pressure when cutting.
- Keep your saw steady and let the blade do the work.
Prepare Yourself
However, before you start your work, there are some safety measures you have to take. Don’t forget that no matter the tools you use, cutting rebar can get dangerous. And without taking various precautions, you risk injuring yourself or someone else.
Here’s what you have to do before starting your project.
Clear the Cutting Area
Firstly, clear your working area. As mentioned before, rebar itself can be long, so making enough space for it is a must. But that’s not the only reason why you should do that. If there are any power cords around, cutting them accidentally will be fatal.
What’s more, since there will be sparks flying around, there might be a risk of fire. That’s why clearing the area from easily flammable objects is crucial before the start.
Safety Gear
As a rule of thumb, you always have to wear protective gear when dealing with any cutting-related job. Rebar is not an exception from that. Without safety equipment, you significantly increase the risk of injuring yourself severely.
You should always wear:
- Safety goggles
- Impact-resistant gloves
- Mask
- Steel-toed boots
No Visitors
Personal safety shouldn’t be your only concern. Ensure that nobody will enter the area during your work and pose a risk to you and themselves. A good idea is to build a special screen to protect other people from shooting steel.
Summary
As you can see, adjusting rebar to your project isn’t a very challenging task. You simply need to know what are the best practices regarding safety and cutting. Once you understand which tools are the most reliable and how to use them correctly, everything will go according to plan.
And don’t forget that you can always seek professional help. Cutting rebar can get dangerous, and if DIY works aren’t your strongest suit, maybe it’s best to let the specialist take care of it.