Cut 8" steel I Beam

cbos · #1 (**permalink**) 11-03-2007, 09:56 AM

We have to cut a standard sized steel I beam in the basement of a house. An abrasive type cut off saw works well for a smaller, moveable beam, but does anyone know of something that will cut a beam 8' up with access from the bottom when there are wood joists over top of the beam?

Thanks,

Clarence

NYC Demo · #2 (**permalink**) 11-03-2007, 04:10 PM

Oxy-Acetylene Cutting Torch

nitrox2595 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-03-2007, 04:10 PM

do you have to cut it to remove it or just cut it. I would just have a fire watch and cut it with a torch

demobud · #4 (**permalink**) 11-03-2007, 07:33 PM

If the web and flange are 1/4" or under it could be done with a reciprocating saw and a heavy duty bimetal blade(s). If it's thicker thatn that, wet the wood, keep water handy (and ABC fire extinguisher), cover everything around it with welding blankets and cut it with a torch. Keep your oxy pressure low though, so that you can control your flares better.

1ManWreckingCrew · #5 (**permalink**) 11-05-2007, 01:43 PM

use a plasma cutter if you can get ahold of one not as hot as a torch

Wolf · #6 (**permalink**) 11-05-2007, 06:36 PM

that must be some house if it's built with steel I-beams. well constructed house indeed. mostly wood around here. never saw a house with steel beams in these parts. impressive.

demobud · #7 (**permalink**) 11-08-2007, 07:24 AM

I could have been a retrofit to shore up a sagging house. I have seen that in many houses.