A circular saw is a powerful tool that is a necessity in every large project. A circular saw is used to cut materials using an orb blade. The blade is lined with spiked metal teeth that render ease in slicing different materials. Moreover, the high speed at which the blade spins helps with the perfect slice. There is a variety of blades that aid in the cutting of different and tougher materials.
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Despite being easy to use, certain safety precautions are necessary to be taken when working with such a powerful tool.
How to use a circular saw?
There are certain precautions that should be taken care of when using a circular saw. These tips will help you get the best results.
Precise Markings
In order to attain a spectacular cut, the markings must be accurate. There is a certain method, called the V method, that is used to make perfect markings. These markings play a major role in achieving a perfect cut using a circular saw. The clarity of the markings ensures that the cut in progress will be perfect.
Chalk Lines
To help with the cut, the markings should be made with chalk. These chalk lines make it easy for you to follow the markings and cut the desired product. You can sharpen the chalk lines by making a quick twang midair. The twang intensifies the lines and makes it simpler to follow the markings.
Clear Lighting
You may have accurate markings, but they will not do you any good if the lighting isn’t suitable. Therefore, it is vital that before cutting, you must check the lighting and ensure that it hits the markings and the materials at the perfect spot. Great lighting will help you see your work clearly and prevent any mistakes that may be indelible later on. This is also important so that the shadows cast, which do not reduce when changing position, will not hinder the cut.
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Be Mindful Of The Blade
All saws have a guide on the front to help with the cutting, and so, the focus of the operator is generally on the guide and not the blade, which is tough. Using a circular saw, you must watch the actual blade and follow the cut it makes. Your view of the markings may be disrupted by the sawdust. While many saws have a blower built-in to help with the issue, many others don’t and blowing away the sawdust by mouth is necessary. This is done to ensure that the markings are followed precisely and the cut is defined.
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Use Masking Tape
Instead of marking directly on dark wood, make sure that the markings are being made on masking tape. The purpose of using masking tape is the clarity of the markings and the lack of splinters that may be produced during the cutting process. Masking tape does not affect the working of the saw in any way and only enhances the technique of the operator and the cut of the material.
Safety Precautions
Safety precautions go a long way to ensure that the accuracy of the cut is intensified. Safety goggles, gloves, etc. provide comfort to the operator. There is comfort in knowing that they are protected against splinters, sawdust, etc. This comfort allows the operator to be more patient and achieve more precise cuts. As they say, confidence is key. Safety precautions allow the operator to be confident when using the circular saw, which only helps accomplish better quality cuts.
Shoulder the Cord
When cutting large pieces, the cord sometimes falls short and might snag when in use which might pose a greater issue. The best thing to do is to throw the cord over your shoulder to reduce snagging and attain a better cut.
Score Your Cut
There is a certain method that is used when cutting veneered plywood. Slow speed helps reduce the splinters that are formed when cutting. To further eliminate the splinters on both sides, it is advised that you score the markings to achieve a cleaner cut. This causes the splinters to appear on the waste pieces and what little may be left behind could be removed with a swipe of sandpaper.
Operate with a Stack
When it is required to cut more than just a few pieces, it is efficient and easier to work with a stack instead of putting pieces on the board one by one. Therefore, it is advisable that the operator works on a stack at a time to save time and energy.
Compound Cuts
The cutting of compounds requires an additional vital step. It is necessary to pull the guard back during compound cuts. This is so that the guard does not pin up on the entrance of the cut and cause difficulty in continuing the cutting process.
Fine Metal Cutting
A metal-cutting blade provides a world of ease when cutting thin metals. These metal-cutting blades cut through any tough material like aluminium foil, the only requirement being that the show side is propped up on top for a nicer look. Large metals pieces can also be cut down to do as you please.
Sliding Cuts
A plywood cutting jig is the most efficient method to utilize when facing difficulty in making sliding cuts. Screw the fence into the plywood according to your given measurements and eliminate the excess plywood. Following the cuts made on the material along with the plywood jig would help attain the perfect sliding cuts.
Curve Cutting
A circular saw is the best appliance to use when cutting curves. A circular saw is not only simpler to use, but it also executes a smoother cut. The method of cutting and the runover time depend upon the material. Such as, a thicker material would require a surface cut and then a deeper curve cut and vice versa.
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Final Thoughts
With enough practice and knowledge, it is subliminally easy to learn and operate a circular saw. With the necessary instructions and confidence, anyone can work with a circular saw. The advantages of doing so are vast and it is in the best interest of everyone involved to utilize this saw for the preservation of time and energy.