Tile: how it works, how to choose the types, manufacturers

Before tile box will turn into the cladding or floor, it will pass a lot of routine processes. But even a perfect clutch easily spoil ugly patches undercut.

Therefore, high-quality tools for cutting tiles - the first of what should take care before starting repairs.

How does Tile

Tile cutting operation algorithm depends on its type. The base is considered to be a mechanical option, it also causes the largest number of questions on the correct operation.

Cutting process is as follows:

• At the end of the tile is applied mark the cutting line.
• On the base frame a tool tile is laid so that the rib turned just below the line.
• The handle is positioned opposite Tile label definition line is fixed to the lowering surfaces.
• Then you need to position the handle so that the roller pressed to the tile at the very end.
• The handle is held on the rails to the opposite edge of the tile fast and rigid movement with sufficient pressure. At the same time I heard the distinctive sound of cutting glaze.

• Tile with a slotted coating is fixed by hand in order to avoid displacement.
• The handle is lifted to a transverse foot stood on the edge of the tile. Sharp pressure on the trailer the handle breaks off a piece of the desired exactly the cut line.

The electrics provided sawing surface over the entire depth. The principle of operation is similar to the action of the grinder, but in the process water is used for dedusting and habitual cut-off wheels replace disks with diamond-tipped.

Tile is cut entirely on pre-made labels.

Tile types

Tile is conventionally divided by the type of the mechanical and electrical models. Despite the common name, the difference in the use of and approach to cutting enormous. Only identical result as-cut tiles.

Manual (mechanical)

The tool is a frame with a projecting longitudinal rib in the middle.

• In most frame is covered with a soft material or rubberized, but there are all-metal construction.
• Installed on top of the two circular tracks with a pen or monorail.
• Above the bed is set with a protractor scale marking for cutting tiles at a predetermined angle.
• The handle is fixed roller and acute transverse foot for pressing the cut tiles.

For manual tile and glass cutter often include - device equipped with rollers for cutting, which fits easily in the palm.

The tool requires the development of fine motor skills, dexterity and strength of selection pressure. Saving fully offset by the amount of irreparably damaged tiles.

Before moving to the electrics should stipulate what happens to them confusion. The classic stationary tile cutters are used in production - large aggregates, which are installed with the fixation on the floor or a special table top.

Models for repair crews and domestic use, which are not fixed to the surface - just portable. But they found called stationary if installed on a table or have a protective unit in the form box.

A portable considered variants without block suitable for use in weight.

Electric portable

Portable models are similar in appearance to the corner grinders or circular saws. But drives for them are diamond-coated.

• The tool is mobile, small models held aloft in one hand.
• Most often provides compatibility with dedusting nozzles.
• Portable tile cutter easy to handle slopes and other surfaces requiring trimming and fitting of the tiles in place.
• The inclination angle and setting the cutting depth is defined from the set of terminators or shroud.

Portable instrument suitable for point or one-time work, but it is inconvenient for laying tiles on large areas.

Electric fixtured

Tile cutting machine type considered. Models have differences on the location of the motor, which determines the feed drive direction - top or bottom.

The tool is similar to a box with a built inside a diamond disk, is complemented by a platform for cutting. Tile equipped with water cooling special container.

Water is also used for other tasks:

• cooling the cutting line - overheating occurs chaotic cracking tiles;
• dedusting - with full cut "dry" the dust into the air and the fine abrasive particles in an amount sufficient to cover the thick fog medium size room.

The lower disk feed It involves the location of sawing mechanism under the table. The disc is recessed into the container, it remains on the surface of 3-5 cm. Automatic lift sets the angle of sawn rim.

Tool Disk underfeed leaner than the upper.

Upper feed drive It indicates that the marked tile is laid out on a surface platform. Marks are aligned with the hole platform, and drive is lowered from above. Cut goes from the end.

Differences in Electrobar between the upper and lower feed unimportant. But first considered a professional tool, and the second - the household.

Features Tile

Basic characteristics: power, disk diameter apply only to the power tool, as in hand-held models, these figures have nowhere to apply. But cutting length - setting comparable in both types of devices.

Power - the higher this parameter in the engine, the more solid material can be treated with the tool. Indicators for the various types of tiles:

• tile - 750-1500 watts;
• granite - 1-1.2 kW;
• Marble - 2 kW and higher.

disc diameter - in low-power devices used circles the size of 230-250 mm. Large or professional powerful tool involves the use of discs 350 mm in diameter.

cutting length It depends on the type of tool. The manual model is defined by the size limitation of the frame, often possible to cut the tiles no longer than 60 cm. Electrics not limit the master cut to length or dimensions of the tiles.

functions

The basic function of any Tile - propyl flat tiles on a given line.

But when we are talking about a trivial task - to put tile around pipes, installed on the surface of the socket, sawed or cut edge tiles in a diagonal, not do without additional functions.

milling holes

Cut through the circle in the tile can not be represented by any of the Tile type. For this work, using the optional accessory that depending on the design and the need for electricity is called crown or Ballerina.

• Crown It represents a nozzle on the tool (drill, screwdriver, hammer). It consists of a drill head and a certain diameter. There are variations on one or more interchangeable heads of different sizes.

The ends of the crown covered with the familiar diamond-coated.

• Ballerina - mechanical version that does not require power. Is a drill or a sharp lug fixed to the leg. Perpendicular to them is the adjustment strap, which features one or two tabs with the cutter.

It occurs as a separate accessory or as an addition to the manual tile. There are options, which are used as baits. The diameter of the desired hole is regulated by a screw or a button on the leg Ballerina.

If the crown is cut tiles on the front side only, the Ballerina involves two-way operation.

corner cutting

It is believed that the manual tile cutters are not suitable for corner cutting. At the same time, anyone can cut off a tile on them on the built-in transports at a predetermined angle.

nuances:

• We are talking about stupid corners or rezah not passing through the tip of the tile.
• Propyl do in diagonal from corner to corner is possible if you use a thin tiles, the master feels tool and has experience of such work.
• In other cases attempts lead to tile damage, however traditionally diagonal cuts and angles of 45 degrees are performed by Electric tile.

Those who prefer a manual tile cutters, for such tasks complements grinder with a diamond disc.

Equipment

Components depends on the type of tool. The mechanical models it myself Tile and packaging, sometimes supplemented Ballerina, limiters or removable roller for cutting.

Tile cutting machine is equipped with the following set:

• Parallel and angle stop;
• limiters sets of guide and controllers;
• additional fasteners;
• a protective casing;
• adjustable height legs;
• rulers, protractors and other auxiliary measuring tool;
• Optional manufacturers add in a set of interchangeable heads and disks.

Crowns for round cuts almost never occur in the basic set.

accessories

Accessories are built-in or attachable.

• Connecting a vacuum cleaner - this option is most commonly provided in portable electrics, but found and fixed. Attaching a vacuum cleaner is needed during dry cutting.

To connect the tool opening is provided with a twist or grooves for fixation. In most cases household vacuum cleaner will not work - hole size and shape of the fasteners adapted to the technique of a particular manufacturer.

• Angle stop - it allows to cut the tiles at a predetermined angle without markup. A common embodiment adapted to an angle of 45 degrees, but in the stationary device, this range varies from 0 to 45 degrees.

• side platform - provides additional support for the wide tile. It occurs most often in the stationary electric models, attached on the side. Without this accessory tile is unstable.

When it is desired to cut a thin slice, it is necessary to maintain his hands for maximum fixation. With platform support manual is not needed.

Optional accessories: transport wheels, foldable legs or bags to carry.

Features

Each type of Tile has features which you should look for when choosing and subsequent operation.

Hand

The mechanical rigidity of the rail models and frame defines cut quality and features breaking cut tiles.

• It is important to control the absence of deformations and distortions that otherwise would have to break the tile materials at hand.
• Permissible load on a frame indicated by the manufacturer on the tool body.
• Easy replacement of the cutting wheel is dependent on the type of its attachment. Expanding tabs more convenient, but the movie is often slips out of the groove.

Depreciation lining in the carriage indicate that the model supports a neat job and cut without unscheduled stops. It is because of them occur incorrect scrapped.

electrical

The power tool has a number of features that determine the productivity and comfort at work:

• In the machines with the upper feeding the filtered water is supplied into the working zone by injecting pump.

Efficiency of removal of waste water and minimizing the splashing favor the tool.

• At lower feed water goes through the tank, and liquid replacement takes place by emptying the container. It is believed that the greater the size of the tank, the less need to add or change the water.

But this overlooked fact easy replacement - there benefit small and medium-sized containers.

Shape cutting is only available in the branded test models. This functionality is still not found widespread application. Most masters plucks pliers curved lines on a tile - it is time-consuming, hand erased to corns.

Plucked fragments of polished diamond disc.

Benefits

Advantages consider without being tied to a stationary or mobile as the main difference lies in the type.

Manual

• It does not require electricity or special conditions;
• no dust and noise;
• It does not require special skills;
• violations of safe operation conditions do not lead to serious injury and do not threaten life;
• Increased speed;
• often manual tile cutter - a tool with low weight, easy to carry from place to place;
• possible to use for outdoor use in adverse weather conditions.

Electric

• low scrap rate at smashing tiles;
• the possibility of polishing the edges and setting the edges at 45 degrees - to the outer corners without Trimm;
• independent of the size of the tiles;
• suitable for processing granite and natural stone;
• versatility - suitable for cutting thin mosaic tiles and stones or increased thickness;
• depending on the disc slot depth is 4 cm.

Benefits are often insignificant, if Tile is used in the wrong circumstances, requires repetitive actions or special skills.

Problems

Each of the presented types of tools have shortcomings and negative traits that can make it difficult to use.

Manual

• restriction on the length of the tile sets the size of the frame is not suitable for dimensional models;
• the quality of the cut depends on the wear of the roller, but to monitor his condition is inconvenient;
• backlash carriage with the handle in the low-end models degrades the sharpness of the cut;
• bends in the plane of the frame or soft metal lead to manufacturing difficulties cutting - to the extent that the device only slotted glaze itself and tiles breaks improvised means;
• it is impossible to make curly cuts, only straight lines.

Despite these disadvantages, the mechanical version is safe, simple and does not cause difficulty for beginners.

Electric

• instrument loud in the machine model, the average noise level reaches 60 decibels;
• at low water cuts are accompanied by an increased amount of dust, and when the normal amount of spattering occurs;
• low productivity due to low speed;
• stationary models are cumbersome and bulky, inconvenient for manual handling;
• not suitable for work in conditions of high humidity, the risk of electric shock;
• unsafe without their protective casings and linings, and with them is not always possible to correctly process the tiles of irregular shape or thickness;
• the demand for electricity.

If the tile is cut in large quantities or for professional purposes, without Electric tile manage difficult.

How to choose a tile cutter

Selection Tile begins with determining the optimal type of device. To do this is to answer yourself some questions:

1. The tool is to be used in the home or in an industrial installation?
2. Disposable or reusable process? For example, laying tiles in the bathroom and the kitchen of his apartment - a one-time job that does not require professional tools.
3. What is the number of tiles to be cut? How thick? Length?

When there is certainty of the instrument type, the parameters that characterize the best device tested. For mechanical and Electrobar they are different.

Manual

• The frame or base should not cave in at a pressure of hands. Check the plane of the platform, turning it perpendicular viewing angle. Irregularities and curved corners, easy propeller complicate the work shift.
• Marking details (ruler, protractor) do not always show the correct division, the emphasis should be checked for squareness frame. Unaligned abutment may lead to tile damage.
• Depreciation lining - optimally, to be present on the frame, and the handle under the carriage.

  Preferred rubberized embodiment eliminates skidding.

• Handle - reinforced better option. When moving should be no play or horizontal displacements.
• Number of rails - for two-rail version required lining, softening the course of the carriage. Option with monorail reliable, it has not presented specific requirements.

Electric

• Protective cover - check it a perfect seal.
• Disc - tool for testing should be included. Unacceptable backlash. When switched off, a hardware disk checked - the system should be clear, the items must fit tightly to each other.
• Pad at the base of the wire will extend uninterrupted tool life, its presence is desirable.
• Platform - is checked for validity plane, no chipping and chipping.
• The number of revolutions and power - the maximum values ​​correspond to a professional tool.

Running smoothness, evenness measuring devices and platforms will help to choose the best device.

How to use the Tile

When using the Tile The usual safety precautions to avoid injury:

• Before first use check instruction.
• Use safety glasses, gloves and clothing.
• Install Tile on a flat, hard surface.
• Carefully check the fixing of tiles.
• Check for foreign objects.

The above rules apply to all types of Tile.

Electric tile require special handling. The noise level during operation of this type up to 100 decibels in large models - must use ear protection.

• Do not use the tool in hazardous areas.
• Do not allow moisture to avoid electrical shock.
• Immediately turn the Tile at jamming the disc or the wire is damaged.
• Do not overload Tile - it reduces disk wear and increases its efficiency.

It should also be remembered that after each use of the machine, remove the cutting disc and clean it from dust. Keep the instrument in a safe and dry place.

Guarantee

On cutting tiles tool provides warranty service for a period of 1 to 5 years. Marriage or failure the fault of the manufacturer allows you to exchange goods or get back the money spent.

• Found mechanical damage, chipping on the tool.
• The fault has appeared because of the buyer.
• The tool is particularly dirty, careless operation.
• On the product showed signs of self-repair attempts.
• Tile was used with consumables that are not intended to work with him.
• The tool has been used with a motor overload.

If the marriage has been detected, contact the dealer from whom you make purchases. Some manufacturers provide services free maintenance tools (cleaning, washing, lubrication).

Faults and repairs

Tile faults correspond to their type. For each character its own set of typical breakdowns.

mechanical type

Jammed the handle, or the carriage - failure indicates that under the protective lining has got a large abrasive or not enough lubrication. In most cases, lubrication tools and replacement pads for analogs completely eliminate the problem.

arched frame - the problem of talking about mechanical damage Tile or excessively soft metal fabrication. In severe cases, repair is not appropriate, it is easier to change the tool.

With minor distortions problematic parts dotted straightened mechanically.

If broken or worn cutting roller, it must be replaced, as any Consumable. To this end, twisted or pressed fastening clamp. The new clip is set to the same old place.

For professional manual tile may require hex screwdriver.

Electrobar

Jamming of the start button - comes from dirt or clogging pieces abrasives. Possible independent repair. To do this, disconnect the tool to remove the case to disassemble and push mechanism.

When parsing thoroughly clean with a soft brush, taking care not to damage the contacts. Lubricate the prevention and assemble back.

Often requires a complete replacement of the buttons on the analog. Actions are the same as when cleaning, but additionally old contacts prozvanivatsya tester to test the correctness.

If everything is in order for them picks a new button.

jammed disk - is due to pollution, excessive dust or lack of lubrication. It is possible to fix on their own. To do this, unplug the appliance and unscrew the nut of mounting.

Next you need to remove the disc and clean it from dust flange or add lubricant. After that, insert all the back and be sure to secure the nuts, too much should not be delayed.

Problems with the wire - basically the problem occurs due to mechanical damage to the wires, if it is clamped or improperly stowed. Check the cable for breaks.

If the cable broke at the base:

• unplug the tool;
• Remove the wires from the switch terminals;
• press clamp holding the cable to the device;
• wire pull and remove the rubber protection;
• cut off the damaged area;
• Remove the outer insulation and strip the wire a couple of centimeters, being careful not to damage it;
• Wear protection against bending and insert the wires into the terminals, mount the bracket and tighten the screws.

Now you can connect to the network Tile and check the result of the work done.

More complex damage and repair warranty equipment is in service centers.

Tile manufacturers

The list contains mainly German companies, manufacturing facilities are located in China. Price range is average, there are low cost options, but most designed for serious work.

The company from Germany, which manufactures products for home and professional use. Electric tile have a good price-performance ratio, as well as the manufacturer's warranty of 2 years.

The German company, the goods are produced in different countries. It specializes in the production tool for professionals and amateurs, as well as home and garden equipment. Produce manual and electric tile cutters with a warranty of 3 years.

The brand comes from the United States, whose products are manufactured in China. It specializes in the production of professional electrical maintenance tools, including Tile. Product Warranty - 3 years.

The Canadian company supplying low-end tools from China. The range includes a variety of tools for repairs. Manufactured exclusively manual tile. The warranty is valid only for power tools - 1 year.

A German company specializing in the manufacture of professional power tool. Producing a high power electrically tile cutters (up to 4000 W) with water cooling. The warranty is given for 2 years.

The company from Sweden is specialized in manufacturing garden machinery and tools for forest work. Produce professional electric tile cutters with a powerful engine. Proprietary technology for cutting at an angle. Warranty Conditions - 1 year.

The company, whose plants are located in many countries around the world. It specializes in manufacturing power tools, machine tools and welding equipment. Electric tile have good quality and capacity. Warranty - 3 years.

Domestic brands, has been issuing budget power tools, equipment and supplies for use in the home. Electric tile equipped with energy-efficient engine and have a 1 year warranty.

Young Russian company producing budgetary power machinery and tools. It makes both electrical and manual tile cutters which have a high strength. The warranty for the manual tile cutters extend to 2 years, and electrical - 5 years.