Decorative Concrete Engraving | Cutting Linear Bricks | Move The Rail

This is a continuation (Part 11) of an introduction to the Super Compact — including it’s capabilities.

In this video, you learn how to move the rail for continuing a course of bricks in a linear brick pattern using the Super Compact Cobra and a tracking system.

This is part 16 of an on-going series on Decorative Concrete, and is taken from the DVD Mastering Concrete Engraving, The Basics.

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After cutting is completed, in the first area, relocate the linear rail to the second location.

Move the rail in an increment of four inches, move the engraver along the rail, check that the blade is aligned with the groove, and anchor each rail standoff.

The closest cut the engraver can make to the linear rail is 15 and a half inches. The connecting bar is drilled at 4 inch intervals. Therefore, when determining where to mount the rail, use measurements that are multiples of 4, then add 15 and a half inches to that measurement to mount the linear rail.

To cut a soldier-course brick border, first engrave the long border cuts with the super compact running track free, then snap a chalk line parallel to the border cut, 11 and a half inches out. Place the linear track base along the snap-chalk line. The round linear guide rail is set closest to the line.

Slide the linear carriage onto the rail, with the indexing hole oriented closest to the engraver. Allowing the linear carriage to run off the rail’s end will damage the bearings. Use the included collars to safety the carriage.

Adjust the primary connecting bar’s stroke length for the bricks being cut. Attach the rigid pointer system to the plunger block. Use the 4 inch pointer for soldier course brick cuts and the 6 inch or 12 inch pointers for tile or stone cuts.

To hold the engraver in place, through each cut cycle, chock, block, or wedge the linear carriage with your toes. Begin the brick cutting within the mitered corner area. Be sure to undercut these lines. Remember, it is easier to touch up an undercut than repair an over cut.

Make the first cut, then use the four inch pointer to measure the next brick cut. Using the four inch pointer, continue cutting bricks along the border. Slide the linear base along the chalk line to the next section and continue cutting bricks.