Operating Instructions - RIDGID HC-450 Operator's Manual

HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
When using an extension cord, the GFCI on the
Hole Cutting Tool does not protect the extension
cord. If the outlet is not GFCI protected, it is advisable
to use a plug in type GFCI between the outlet and the
extension cord to reduce the risk of shock if there is a
fault in the extension cord.

Operating Instructions

WARNING
Always wear appropriate eye protection. Cutting
tools can break or shatter. Cutting produces chips
that can be thrown or fall into eyes.
Do not use for hot tapping. When cutting into an
existing system, the pipe must be drained and
depressurized prior to cutting. This reduces the
risk of electrical shock and other serious injury.
Do not wear gloves or loose clothing when operat-
ing machine. Keep Sleeves and jackets buttoned.
Do not reach across machine. Clothing can be
caught by the machine resulting in entanglement.
Keep fingers and hands away from rotating chuck
and saw. This reduces the risk of entanglement
and cutting injuries.
Follow operating instructions to reduce the risk of
injury from electrical shock entanglement, crush-
ing and other causes and prevent Hole Cutter
damage.
1. Confirm that the Hole Cutting Tool and work area are
properly set up and that the work area is free of by-
standers and other distractions.
2. Assume a proper operating position that will allow:
• Control of the Hole Cutting Tool, including the ON/-
OFF switch and the feed handle. On the HC-300
you must be on the same side as the switch and the
feed handle. Do not turn the tool ON yet
• Good balance. Be sure that you do not have to over
reach.
3. Move the ON/OFF switch to the ON position. Observe
the rotation of the hole saw and pilot drill, making
sure it is running straight and true. If they wobble, or
any other issues are noted, move the switch to OFF
and unplug tool, fix any issues prior to using. Keep fin-
gers, hands and clothes away from the turning chuck
to help reduce the risk of entanglement.
10
4. Place both hands on the hand wheel and advance the
pilot drill into contact with the pipe. Apply firm pres-
sure, and start drilling the pilot hole. Do not force
the pilot drill/hole saw. This can overload the hole saw
and the tool motor and cause premature failure.
Figure 11 – Operating the Hole Cutting Tool
Once the hole saw is in contact with the pipe, con-
tinue to apply firm pressure. Depending on the size
and wall thickness of the pipe and the size of the hole
being cut, the hole saw may need to be retracted
slightly at times for chip removal.
If needed, the Hole Cutting Tool can be shut off and
a small amount of appropriate cutting lubricant applied
to the work piece. Do not apply lubricant while the tool
is running, this increases the risk of entanglement.
Take appropriate steps to prevent the lubricant from
dripping or being thrown during use.
As the hole saw moves through the pipe and as the
cut is completed, there will be an interrupted cut at
times. Decrease pressure as this occurs to help pre-
vent jamming of the hole saw.
5. Once the hole is complete, retract the hole saw from
the pipe and turn the ON/OFF switch OFF.
6. Reverse the mounting procedure to remove the Hole
Cutting Tool from the pipe. Make sure you have se-
cure grip on the Hole Cutting Tool prior to loosening
the chain or pulling the plunger on the HC-300.
7. If the pipe slug needs to be removed from the hole
saw, always make sure that the ON/OFF switch is in
the OFF position and the Hole Cutting Tool is un-
plugged before removing. Remove the slug with
care, the slug may be hot and edges can be sharp.