Alpha AWS-125 User manual

Part No: AWS-125 / AWS-225
103 Bauer Drive, Oakland, NJ 07436 • 800-648-7229 • Fax: [phone]
www.alpha-tools.com
Alpha®Wet Stone Cutter
Instruction Manual
MANUAL

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction................................................................................................................ 3
About Symbols................................................................................................... 3
Electrical Symbols ............................................................................................. 3
Safety instructions .................................................................................................... 4
For Safe Operation............................................................................................. 4
AWS-125 Overview .................................................................................................... 6
Accessories ............................................................................................................... 7
Additional Precautions for Using the Wet Stone Cutter........................................ 8
AWS-125 Wet Stone Cutter Operation ..................................................................... 9
Main Connection ................................................................................................ 9
Switching ON and OFF ...................................................................................... 9
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter..................................................................... 10
Before Use.................................................................................................................11
About Double Installation................................................................................ 12
Laws and Regulations of Noise Levels.......................................................... 12
Instructions for Installing the Felt Strips....................................................... 12
Installation of Water Attachment .................................................................... 13
Water Flow........................................................................................................ 14
Adjusting Cutting Depth ......................................................................................... 14
Assembling and Disassembling ............................................................................ 14
Straight Blade Installation ...................................................................................... 15
Curve Blade Installation.......................................................................................... 15
Free-Hand Cutting ................................................................................................... 16
Cutting Using Ruler Guide...................................................................................... 16
Cutting Using the Carriage Assembly and Guide Rail......................................... 17
Curve Cutting Application ...................................................................................... 18
Blade Inspection, Installation and Removal ......................................................... 19
AWS-125 Maintenance ............................................................................................ 20
Replacing and Checking the Carbon Brushes ..................................................... 21
Recommended Accessories................................................................................... 24
Service and Warranty Information ......................................................................... 26
Loaner Program ............................................................................................... 26
AWS-125 Wet Stone Cutter Schematic .................................................................. 27
AWS-125 Wet Stone Cutter Parts List.................................................................... 28
EC Declaration of Conformity ................................................................................ 30
Warranty ................................................................................................................... 30
Product Registration Card...................................................................................... 31

3
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing theAlpha®AWS-125 Wet Stone Cutter. Please read this instruc-
tion manual thoroughly to ensure safe and correct use of the wet stone cutter. Keep this
manual in a place where operators can access it easily whenever necessary.
ABOUT THE SYMBOLS
According to the hazard level, all safety notes in this manual are classied into “DANGER”,
“WARNING”, and “CAUTION”.
DANGER! Deathorseriouspersonalinjuryisimminentwhenhandlingthistool
incorrectly.
WARNING! There is a possibility of death or serious personal injury when
handling this tool incorrectly.
CAUTION! Thereisapossibilityofpersonalinjuryorpropertydamagewhen
handling this tool incorrectly.
NOTE: In some situations, failing to observe WARNING notes could result in death or seri-
ous personal injury. Be sure to read and observe the safety notes to ensure safety
and correct use of the wet stone cutter.
ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS
The following show the symbols used for tool.
V Volts
A Amperes
Hz Hertz
~ or a.c. Alternating Current
n0 No load speed
…/min Revolution or reciprocation per minute
kg Kilograms
Protective Earth

4
Note: In some situations, failing to observe WARNING notes could result in deathor
serious personal injury. Be sure to read and observe the safety notes to ensure
safe and correct use of the wet stone cutter.
CAUTION!
The following are important notes for products, operation, and maintenance applicable to
this stone cutter.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read all these instructions before attempting to operate this product.
WARNING!
When using electric tools, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the
risk of re, electric shock, and personal injury, including the following.
For Safe Operation
1. Keep work area clean
Cluttered areas and benches invite injuries.
2. Consider work area environment
Do not expose power tools to rain. Do not use power tools in damp or wet locations
without GFCI protection. Keep work areas well lit. Do not use the tool in presence of
ammable liquids or gases.
3. Guard against electric shock
Prevent bodycontact withgrounded surfaces.For example:pipes, radiators,ranges,
and refrigerator enclosures; use grounded outlets.
4. Keep children and visitors away
Donotlet visitorscontact toolor extensioncord. Allvisitorsshould bekept awayfrom
work area. Keep out of reach of children.
5. Tool Storage
Whennotinuse,toolsshouldbe storedinasecuredry location.Alockedstoragearea
or high shelf out of children’s reach is ideal.
6. Do not force the tool
It will do the job better and be safer at the rate for which it was intended.
7. Use the right tool
Do not force a small tool or attachment to do the job of a heavy-duty tool. Do not use
the tool for purposes it is not designed for – (for example – do not use stone cutter for
cutting tree limbs or logs.)
8. Dress properly
Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Items such as these can be caught in moving
parts. Rubberglovesandnon-skidfootweararerecommendedwhenworkingoutdoors.
Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
9. Use safety equipment
Always wear safety glasses and if necessary, a face shield, dust mask and hearing
protection.

5
10. Do not abuse the electrical cord
Nevercarrythe toolby theelectrical cordor pullitto disconnectfrom receptacle. Keep
the electrical cord away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
11. Secure workpiece
Use clamps or a vise to hold workpiece rather than using your hands.
12. Do not overreach
Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
13. Maintain tools with care
Keep tools sharp and clean for better and safer performance. Follow instructions for
lubricating and changing accessories. Inspect the electrical cord periodically and
if damaged, have it repaired by authorized service facility. Inspect extension cords
periodically and replace if damaged. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and
grease.
14. Disconnect tools
Disconnectthetoolfromthepowersupplywhennotinuse,beforeservicing,andwhen
changing accessories, such as blades, bits, cutters.
15. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches
Check to see that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from the tool before
turning it on.
16. Avoid unintentional starting
Do not carry a plugged-in tool with nger on switch. Be sure the switch is off when
plugging in.
17. Outdoor use extension cords
When tool is used outdoors, use only extension cords intended for use outdoors and
so marked.
18. Stay alert
Use caution and do not operate tool when you are tired or on medication.
19. Check for damaged parts
Beforeusingthetooleachday,aguardorotherpartthatisdamagedshouldbecarefully
checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function.
Check for alignment of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other
conditions that may affect its operation.A guard or other part that is damaged should
be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center unless otherwise
indicated elsewhere in this instruction manual. Have defective switches replaced by
authorized service center. Do not use the tool if it cannot be turned on and off by the
switch.
20. Warning
The use of any other accessory or attachment other than recommended in this
instruction manualor thecatalog maypresentariskof personalinjuryandcouldvoid
the warranty.
21. Only qualied technicians should repair this tool
This electric tool is manufactured in accordance with the standard safety rules. Only
expertsmaycarry outthe repairofelectric tools;otherwise, itmay causeconsiderable
danger for the operator.

6
AWS-125 OVERVIEW
SPECIFICATIONS
Rating ................................................................................................110/220 Volts
Amperage................................................................................................... 11.2/5.5
Power........................................................................................................... 1200W
No-load Speed ....................................................................................12,000 RPM
Weight ............................................................................................... 7.2 lbs/3.3kg
Arbor..................................................................................................7/8” / 22.23m
Cutting Disc Diameter........................................................................5” / 125mm,
Maximum Cutting Depth................................................................ 1-5/8” / 41mm
Power Switch
Power Switch
Lock
Side Handle
Water Valve
Flange I and
Flange II
Height Adjustment
Wing Screw
TT Ruler Guide
Water Nozzle
Figure-1

7
ACCESSORIES
COMPONENTS:
1. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (Part No. 133289/133292)
2. Water Valve (Part No. 133362)
3. Water Attachment Assembly (Part No. 133287)
4. Spanner Wrench M 22 (Part No. 133097)
5. TT Ruler Guide (reversible) (Part No. 133266)
6. T-Handle Wrench (Part No. 133098)
7. Extra Carbon Brush (2 pc set) (Part No. 133033)
8. Self-stick Felt Strip Set (Part No. 133369)
9. Side Handle (Part No. 801086)








Figure-2

8
ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS FOR USING
THE WET STONE CUTTER
In addition to the general safety notes described on the preceding pages, please read
and observe the following precautionary notes before using the wet stone cutter.
DANGER!
INSTRUCTIONS
AlphaProfessionalTools® provides the highest quality parts and manufacturing techniques
in the manufacture of this tool. In order to obtain the maximum effectiveness and provide
thehighestdegree ofsafety, itis necessaryto reviewand followthese instructionscarefully
before using the tool.
SAFETY ADVICE
• Please note safety instructions on Page 3-5.
• Do not pierce the motor housing as this could damage the double insulation.
• Always remove plug from the outlet before making any changes to the settings or
carrying out maintenance.
• Only plug-in when machine is switched off.
• Keep power cable clear from working range of the machine. The power cable should
always lead away from you and behind the operating area.
• Before use, check the machine, cable and plug for any damages or material fatigue,
only authorized service agents should carry out repairs.
• After switching off, the machine will not idle down immediately. Allow the machine to
come to a complete stop before putting it down.
• Always wear safety glasses and ear protection when working with this machine. It
is further recommended to wear safety gloves, apron, as well as sturdy non-slipping
shoes.
• Only use saw blades whose permitted speed is at least as high as the highest no-load
speed of the machine.
• Be sure saw blade ts tool properly and securely. Do not modify the tool to force t the
blade. For example do not remove blade guard.
• Check cutting tools before use. The saw blade must be properly mounted and turn
freely. Performatestrunforatleast30secondswithoutanyload. Donotusedamaged,
out of round or vibrating cutting tools.
• Immediately switch off the machine in case of considerable vibrations or if other
malfunctions occur. Check the machine in order to nd out the cause.

9
• Always use and store the saw blades according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The ange bolt must be tightened before starting to work with the machine.
• The work piece must be secured if it is not heavy enough to prevent movement.
• Do not use emery wheel.
• The tool is designed for cutting on horizontal surfaces.
USAGE
This wet stone cutter can be used for cutting many different materials, e.g. tile, concrete,
stone orglass. Incase ofdoubtpleasereadthe manufacturer’sinstruction.Donotuse this
product in any other way as stated for normal use.
AWS-125 WET STONE CUTTER OPERATION
MAIN CONNECTION
Connect only to single-phase AC current supply and only to the main voltage specied on
theratingplate.Connectiontosocketswithoutgroundprotectionispossibleastheappliance
features protective insulation to DIN 57/740/ VDE 0740 and CEE 20. Radio suppression
complies with the European standard EN 55014.
SWITCHING ON AND OFF
Intermittent use
Switching on: Press switch trigger
Switching off: Release switch trigger
Continuous use:
Switching on: Press the on/off switch and then the locking button; release on-off switch.
Switching off: Press the on/off switch and then release.
Locking Button
Switch Trigger Figure-3

10
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER:
DANGER!
Do not bypass the GFCI if this condition occurs, a real shock hazard may exist.
WARNING!
If the GFCI fails to trip when the test button is pressed, or fails to reset, the device is
defective and should be replaced.
If the GFCI tests properly without a load applied, but trips each time a load is connected,
then the load (tool) has a ground fault condition and needs to be repaired or replaced.
Do not bypass the GFCI if this condition occurs, a real shock hazard may exist.
CAUTION!
1. The GFCI is a safety device, do not use as an off/on switch.
2. The GFCI on the tool will not protect you if you cut into another current carrying
conductor.
3. Do not use where water may enter GFCI case.
4. Do not modify or allow GFCI to be immersed in water.
AGround Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is mounted at the end of power supply cord.
The GFCI goes OFF when water enters inside the tool’s housing preventing the operator
from receiving electric shocks.
When the GFCI goes OFF, the Reset button pops up.
This is the result of water entering the stone cutter
housing.
Turn OFF the power switch and blow dry air inside the
motor cover through the air vents.
Press the GFCI Reset button. The stone cutter is
ready to start working after the reset button is pressed
down.
1. Do not remove the GFCI.
Reset
Test
Figure-4
Red Run
Light

11
2. Check items below when the GFCI goes OFF frequently.
• Force applied on the stone cutter.
• Water entered inside the stone cutter.
• Voltage drop due to sharing the same power source in work area.
• Worn carbon brushes
BEFORE USE
DANGER!
Beforeusingthe machine,check thefollowing items. Inparticular, checkitems 1to 5before
plugging the power supply cord into the power outlet.
1. Check the working voltage.
– Be sure the voltage specied on the nameplate is the voltage available at the
power outlet. If the machine is used with higher voltage than specied, the
motor will burnout. Any attempts to do so may damage the tool and/or cause an
accident.
2. Make sure the ON/OFF switch is off.
– If you plug in the power supply cord without realizing that the switch is ON, the
machine will start and may cause an accident.
– Make surethe switchis inthe OFFpositionbefore pluggingthe cordinthe power
outlet.
3. Inspect the protective cover.
– Do not remove the cover. It will protect you if the saw blade breaks.
– Be sure to rmly attach the saw blade or any optional accessory.
4. Inspect the saw blade.
– Check if you have a specied blade.
– Never use cracked, chipped, or any damaged blades.
– Follow the procedures specied in the instruction manual to properly attach
applicable accessories.
5. Check the power outlet.
– When the plug of the power supply cord is easily pulled out of the power outlet,
theoutletshouldbereplaced. Forsuchtasks,consultanelectrician. Ifthepower
outlet is used on a continuous basis, it may overheat and cause accidents.
6. Perform test runs.

12
WARNING!
1. Before turning the switch ON, make sure the rotating parts are not touching
anything. If the switch is turned ON while they are in contact with anything
else, the blade may get damaged and it may cause injuries.
2. When a new blade is attached and the switch is turned ON, keep your body
well away from the exposed sides of the tool for a moment until the machine
reaches its full speed.
3. It is very dangerous to perform cutting operations using cracked, chipped or damaged
blades. Before starting cutting operations, keep the tool away from anyone nearby. Be
sure to perform a few test runs to check whether there are any abnormalities.
ABOUT DOUBLE INSULATION
This machine is designed with double insulation. Two insulations are used between the
conductorandtheouterbodyofthemachine. AnElectricMachinewiththedoubleinsulation
highly improves safety from electric shocks. Do not attach or replace unspecied parts and
do not assemble incorrectly. This may cause the insulation to malfunction.
LAWS AND REGULATIONS OF NOISE LEVELS
Pleaseobservelocal lawsand regulationsregarding noiselevel inordertoavoid disturbing
surrounding areas. Install a soundproof wall if required to comply with the local laws and
regulations.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLING THE FELT STRIPS ON THE
AWS-125/AWS-225 BASE PLATE:
1. Wipe base plate with a clean rag to remove
any dirt or residue.
2. Peel off lm from the pressure sensitive
adhesive on the enclosed felt strips.
3. Place strips on base plate parallel with the
blade and press into place.
Figure-5

13
INSTALLATION OF WATER ATTACHMENT
1. Removethewingscrew andwasherfor
adjusting the cutting depth.
(See Figure-6)
2. Raise cutting depth so there is room
between the body and the base plate.
(See Figure-6)
3. Insert the plastic nozzle on the water-feed assembly behind the height adjustment
slide. Make sure that the water valve bracket (Part No. 133094) is in front of the slide.
If yourblade isalreadyinstalled,the plasticnozzles shouldbepositionedso thateach
nozzle directs water spray onto each side of the blade. (See Figure-7 & Figure-8)
4. Align the water valve bracket with
the wing nut hole and insert wing
bolt.
(See Figure-9)
5. Adjust the height of the blade and securely tighten the wing bolt.
Figure-7 Figure-8
Figure-6
Figure-9

14
Spanner Wrench
T-handle Wrench...turn
clockwise to loosen
WATER FLOW
Connectonlytoanisolatingtransformerwhenusingwater
ow.
Connectthenylonhoseontothewatervalve,thenconnect
the adapter on the nylon hose to the water faucet.
Simply adjust the volume of the water ow by turning the
handle on the water valve.
ADJUSTING CUTTING DEPTH
1. Loosen the wing screw on the depth indicator and move the base plate up or down
to the desired cutting depth. Re-tighten the wing screw to a hand tight condition as
shown in Figure 11 and Figure 12.
ASSEMBLING & DISASSEMBLING
Makecertaintoswitchoffthemachineandunplugfromoutlet
before assembling or disassembling of the saw blade.
Clamp the ange with spanner wrench and loosen bolt by
turningtheT-handleclockwisetoloosen.Disassemblebolt,
ange and saw blade.
Pleasefollowthesame butreverseprocedureswhenreas-
sembling the saw blade.
Be sure the direction shown by arrow on the surface of
the saw blade is the same as that shown on the cap of the
machine. Make certain the bolt is rmly tightened.
Wing Screw
Figure-11
Figure-12
Figure-10
Figure-13
Figure-14

15
CURVE CUTTING BLADE INSTALLATION
STRAIGHT BLADE INSTALLATION
Bolt M6x30 Left
Part No. 133463
Alpha® Contour Curve Cutting Blade
Flange I
Part No. 133418
Flange III
Part No. 133432
Flange II
Part No. 133419
Bolt M6x20 Left
Part No. 133464
Flange II
Part No. 133419
Flange I
Part No. 133418
Alpha
®
Straight Cutting Blade
Figure-15
Figure-16

16
CAUTION!
Allowthesawbladetodothework,applyingexcessiveforwardpressuretothetoolwillslow
down the RPM’s and burn up the motor, which voids the limited warranty of the tool.
This tools should only be used for cutting on a horizontal surface.
Be sure to follow daily maintenance before and after each use.
OPTION 1: FREE-HAND CUTTING
If you are cutting stone or tile less than 20 mm (3/4”) thick, the cut can be done in
one pass (allow saw blade to do the work).
2. If you are cutting stone or tile more than 20mm thick you will need to make the
cut in two passes. Adjust the height to 15-20mm for the rst pass, then adjust
the saw blade below the stone for the second pass ( allow the saw blade to do
the work).
3. Adjust the amount of water-ow to cool the blade and remove the waste, excessive
water ow will get inside the tool and trip the GFCI.
4. Set the base plate on the workpiece and align to the cutting mark on the base plate
to cut line on stone.
5. Press the on/off switch to start the motor and allow the tool to attain full speed before
starting to cut.
6. Advance the tool slowly allowing the blade to do the work, keeping the base plate at
on the stone and the cut mark in line with your cut line.
7. Slow the cutting speed for the last 1/2” to prevent the tile or stone from chipping.
OPTION 2: USING THE RULER GUIDE
Install the ruler on the AWS-125 by inserting the arms into the appropriate slots on the
base plate and tightening the screws to secure the ruler in place. When using the edge
of the stone as your guide, install the ruler so that it is below the base plate (Figure-17).
Measure the distance from the edge to the intended cut and use this measurement
to set the ruler at the proper distance. When using a straight edge as a guide, install
the ruler so that it is above the base plate (Figure-18). Measure the distance from the
straight edge to the intended cut and use it to set the ruler at the proper distance.
When cutting, simply keep the ruler in contact with the straight edge while
maintaining even
cutting pres-
sure and your
cuts will b e
Figure-17 Figure-18

17
straight.
OPTION 3: USING THE CARRIAGE ASSEMBLY AND GUIDE RAIL
Install the guide rail 2-3/4 inches / 70mm from the intended cut. Take care to ensure that
the guide rail is properly clamped in place and double check your measurements.Attach
the carriage assembly to the base plate by aligning the base plate properly and attaching
the pressing plates. Make sure that the pressing plates are securely fastened. The AWS
shouldbeimmobilewithinthecarriageassembly. Slidethecarriage ontotheguiderailand
proceed to cut. Maintain even cutting pressure. When nished, the rail is in position to polish
the straight edge with the Alpha®Edgecrafter. Adjusting cutting depth:
Loosen the wing bolt on the depth indicator and move the base oor up and down to the
desired cutting depth and tighten the wing nut to x the base oor.
Remember to tighten the wing bolt after you nish the adjustment of the cutting depth each
time.
Carriage Assembly
Guide Rail
Figure-20

18
CURVE CUTTING APPLICATION
When cutting the curved line, you can remove the ruler guide and cut free-hand. (Figure-8)
Step 1. Score along the cutting line (1/3 width of stone).
Step 2. Step-cut along scored line (2/3 width of stone).
Step 3. Plunge cut all the way to make full contact between bottom plate and stone, then
maintain even cutting pressure to follow curved cut line.
WARNING!
Support the sink cutout area; sinkhole cutout piece may drop to the oor at the end of cut-
ting application, if not supported.
1. Support thesink cutoutareapriortocutting, otherwisetheworkpiecemaydroptothe
oor at the end of the cutting application.
2. UsetheAlpha®Contour Cuttingblade only.Application withinferior bladesmay cause
damage to the stone cutter.
3. Do not force the stone cutter during the cutting application.Allow the blade to cut at
its own pace. Excessive force may damage the stone cutter.
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3
Figure-21

19
BLADE INSPECTION, INSTALLATION, AND REMOVAL
DANGER!
Be sure to unplug the power cord from the outlet before attaching or removing the
saw blade from the tool. Accidental starting of the motor may cause bodily injury.
WARNING!
Be sure to securely tighten the ange assembly and all loose screws before testing the unit.
Please allow the saw blade to do the work. Applying excessive force may damage the saw
blade and cause premature failure of the bearings and gears. Such action may decrease
the rotation speed of the motor which reduces the efciency of the dust suction because
its power is driven by the spindle
Only use saw blades with 20mm arbors and maximum speed rating equal to or higher than
the name plate of RPM of tool.
1. To remove the ange bolt from the spindle hold Flange II in position with the 22 mm
spanner wrench (133097) while turning the ange bold with the T-handle wrench
(133098) in a clockwise rotation until it is removed.
2. With the ange bolt removed, remove Flange II off of Flange I.
3. Install your 20mm arbor saw blade onto Flange I with the arrow on the blade pointing
inthesamedirectionasthearrowonthecover(bladewillturninaclockwiserotation),
the cutting wheel should t tightly on the Flange I.
4. Reinstall Flange II and then the ange bolt, turning counter-clockwise to install, once
ange bolt is hand tight use the 22mm spanner wrench to hold Flange II in place and
nish tightening the ange bolt with the T-handle wrench.

20
AWS-125 MAINTENANCE
DAILY
1. Before dailystart-up inspecttool, powercord,GFCI,andSaw Blade,lookingforchips
and cracks.
2. If damage has occurred, repair affected areas before use.
3. ConnectthetooltothecorrectpowersourceandtesttheGroundFaultCircuitInterrupter
(GFCI) before using the tool. Push the red RESET button and conrm that the red run
light is on. Push the yellow TEST button and conrm that the red run light is off, push
the red RESET button to use the tool.
4. After daily use of the tool, clean and blow off the exterior of tool and around air intake
vents to remove any standing water or stone dust on the eld coil, carbon brushes,
and bearings. Failure to do this will shorten the life of your tool, and could void your
warranty.
PERIODIC
Preventivemaintenanceperformed byunauthorizedpersonnel mayresult inmisplacingof
internalwiresand/orcomponentswhichvoidsthewarrantyandcouldcauseserioushazards.
We recommend that tool service and repairs not covered in the manual be performed by
an Alpha®Repair Center.
Periodic maintenance is done to check the tool and to minimize down time. These checks
are done based on hours of operation and operating conditions. Operating condition can
vary depending on the work surface and job being performed. If the tool is not used for a
long period of time the carbon brushes should be checked and the commutator cleaned,
before putting the tool back into operation.
BEARINGS AND GEARS
Tominimizeyourtool’sdowntimeandexpensiverepairs,itisrecommendedtosendthetool
back to anAlpha®Repair Center after about 300 to 400 hours of operation, or every second
carbon brush change. The bearings should be replaced and the gears should be checked.
Ifyourtoolstartstosounddifferent,thiscouldbeanindicationofawornbearing. Continuing
to use to use the tool in this condition could result in overheating or motor failure.