Andreas Stihl (India), a wholly owned subsidiary of Andreas Stihl AG & Co KG, Germany, a 85 year old company with products like chainsaws, brush cutters, hedge trimmers, blowers, vacuum shredders, telescopic pruners, earth augers, rescue saws and cut-off saws, has introduced the versatile GS 461 concrete cutter in India. Aimed at the construction industry primarily, the GS 461 could also find use in the agriculture, fire and rescue operations, government departments, defence, construction, and various other industry sectors.

Expected to complement the existing range of tools from the company, the GS 461 combines the features of a Stihl chainsaw and more, which makes cutting concrete easier and quicker. The GS 461 concrete saw is equipped with the environmentally friendly 2-MIX 5.8bhp, 76.5cc petrol engine technology for lower emissions. The product also features an air filter system with a pre-separator (long life filter system) as well as an extremely efficient anti-vibration system for easy execution of work. The manoeuvrability of the machine making it perfect for cutting in tight spots, or close up against a 90-degree corner, the GS 461 is also ideal for rental outlets.

Speaking at the launch, Pramod Wadpally, Country Manager, said, "This chain saw can cut almost anything making it suitable for diverse use under diverse conditions. The engine of this saw runs at 2000 RPM, and the cutting element is made up of a Diamond abrasive chain with pre-sharpened diamond segments, which do not have to be sharpened before cutting." Describing the journey of his company in India since its establishment in 2005, Mr Wadpally mentioned that their products are premium products. Sold through 170 dealers across India, the GS 461, according to Mr Wadpally, is very unique for the Indian market.

Having managed to gain market in India in fields like agriculture and plantations, and institutions, the company hopes to keep growing at the same pace it did during the last two years. The company attained a growth of 40 per cent over the last two years. Employing 44 employees, of which 23 double as sales and application specialists, Ranjit B Patil, Marketing Manager, mentioned that India presents the opportunity to use machines for purposes much beyond their intended use. He said further: "Our machines have helped improve mechanization." Concluded Mr Wadpally; "There are few other options (than Stihl cutters) in an emergency situations."