Best Wall Chaser
When laying electrical cable, for example, a wall chaser is a specialized power instrument used to cut small grooves in walls. A pair of closely spaced abrasive discs, similar to those found in an angle grinder, are typically driven by an electric motor, which typically powers the instrument. With the aid of a power instrument called a wall chaser, channels can be cut or chased into masonry walls to make room for pipes or electrical wires. This device is often a hand-operated instrument with an angle grinder-like construction that uses masonry blades or abrasive discs to make the cuts. The majority of wall chasers have drive heads that can accommodate attaching one or two discs or blades at once.
A channel with an acceptable width can be cut in one pass thanks to dual blades. A dust extraction system fitting is often included in a wall chaser since masonry cutting produces a lot of dust. After the construction of the building’s walls, electrical wiring, and plumbing are often installed. A groove or chase must be cut into the wall surface to allow the wiring or piping during routing. The chase was cut with a chasing chisel and a hammer in the days before power tools. Although this strategy is still in use and useful for short chases or in confined spaces, it is arduous and time-consuming. Long wiring and piping chases in the hardest of masonry are quickly completed by wall-chasing machines, albeit noisily and dustily.
There are two types of wall chasers & slotters available in the market.
With discs – The device comes with 2 to 6 discs and can cut through any material smoothly. They are generally equipped with segmented diamond discs. Also, they can stand for a longer time for almost any type of cutting task.
With cutters – They are equipped with cutters instead of disc blades. They are suitable for cutting softer materials such as wood or plaster. They are not recommended for use for slotting in hard materials such as concrete or stone.
Selection of the wall chaser & slotter based on characteristics:
Cutting width –Â The width of the cut is suggested to adjust between 10-40 mm. It is done by the motion of the distance washer between the disc blades. Usually, the size of the cutter head helps to identify the cutting width of the device.
Cutting depth –Â It is good to have a depth adjustment knob to adjust the cutting depth of the wall chaser. The standard range of cutting depth is from 5-75 mm.
A number of discs – It is better to have more discs for smooth operation and long-lasting grooves. Six discs machine is ideal for professional cutting of chases regularly. 2-4 discs machine is suitable for home use.
Disc diameter –Â Disc diameter helps to decide the capacity of the chaser to cut the chases. The larger the diameter more powerful the chaser. Also, the heavier the machine faster and safer the operation.
Dust extraction –Â As the machine generates immense dust and debris, it is necessary to have a vacuum cleaner connected to it. Also, the dust extraction system must be powerful enough to collect the dust produced by the machine.
Important points to consider for wall chaser & slotter:
- 1. First identify which elements to add to the wall, e.g. electrical cables, water supply pipes, etc.
- 2. Relate the depth of chase depending on the size of the pipe or duct.
- 3. Also, the width of the chase is based on the depth of the chaser.
- 4. The route of the duct or pipe should be through the wall or partition wall.
Safety measures to take while using wall chaser & slotter:
- Always double-check that the wall or floor that is to be cut doesnât have any electrical ducts or heating pipes. It can be accomplished with the help of a pipe and stud detector.
- It is necessary to use personal protective equipment that comprises hearing protection, safety goggles, respiratory protection, and gloves.
- Always keep the kids and pets far away from the device while in use to avoid fatal injuries.
- Ensure that the power cable of the machine is not plugged in too far away to avoid unnecessary obstruction or hazard.
- Always hold the wall chaser machine with a firm grip.
- In case you are chasing into a hard wall, it is suggested to work on a diagonal position to avoid weakening the structure.