Circular Saw
The circular saw is an excellent tool for fast straight cutting of timber. It can be used to cut both man made boards (chip boards M.D.F etc) and natural timber. Some models can also, by simply changing blades, cut concrete and masonry. As with most power tools, different sizes of circular saws are available. They are sized by the diameter of their blade. Most jobs around the home can be tackled with a saw holding a blade of 184mm diameter.
When sawing always try to keep the saw running at maximum speed and make sure that this is the case before touching the wood with the blade. Always hold the saw very firmly before the job and move it slowly forward, do not force it into the work. If the saw slows noticeably or starts to bind when working ease it back to allow the speed to build up then ease forward again. If the blade binds repeatedly or the saw keeps slowing down then something is wrong, stop immediately and check with the machines instruction book.
There are different types and patterns of circular saw blades available. Each type is to used for a specific purpose.(Refer to the diagram on the right.)
Fig 1: Combination Blade.
Fig 2: Cross-cut Blade.
Fig 3: Rip Blade.
Fig 4: Planer Blade.
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Combination blades are useful for most purposes such as cutting thick or thin woods across the grain or with the grain. |
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Cross- cut blades have fine teeth that are used when cutting across the grain and are ideal for use on plywood or other man made panels. |
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Rip Blades are the opposite in that they are used for quick rough cuts with the timber grain. |
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Planer Blades are ideal for neat smooth cuts on thick or thin wood. |
One of the simple secrets of successful power saw use is to keep your blades sharp. This is normally not a job the average home handy person can do. It`s best to get your blades professionally sharpened.
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