Core Cutting : A specialised job

Job done - see the neat hole on the top

Rainwater harvesting implementation often involves core cutting. Core cutting is done so as to put the rainwater pipe into an existing concrete sump. Core cutting or Concrete cutting is a process of controlled sawing, drilling and removal of concrete performed by skilled operators using special saws that use diamond impregnated blades.This method leaves a smooth attractive finish and utilizes water so as not to create any dust or mess. 

In Bangalore there are specialized workers and groups that do just this. Even reputed builders make use of their services. It requires for the worker to be strong and skilled as the equipment is heavy and requires a certain degree of strength and finesse to use the same. Once the "core" comes out, the pipe is fixed and water proof plastering is done on the inside as well as outside to prevent any leakages

It takes more than an hour (and a lot pf patience and hard work) to drill through 20 inches of concrete. Pictures and Video from a recently completed job

Marking the location for the core cutting

The Extracted Core

Core cutting in progress

Removing the core

Water for cooling

Hoisting and fixing the equipment