The Importance of Choosing the Right Blade
Throughout this website, I have emphasized the usefulness of table saws and their potential to increase productivity when used correctly. Assuming that you have done your research and chosen a specific type or model of table saw, there is still an important step left to complete. Inevitably, as you take on different projects, you will need to replace the original blade that came with your table saw. This decision requires careful consideration as it will greatly impact the cutting performance based on the material type and thickness being worked with.
Selecting an improper blade can lead to subpar woodworking or even pose a risk for accidents. To fully utilize the saw you invested your money in and prevent any potential mishaps, familiarize yourself with blade knowledge. Take a look at this brief guide I created to gain the necessary understanding.
Blade Adjustments: Versatility in Cutting
Modern table saws offer numerous options for adjusting the blade. Not only can it be altered vertically, but also by varying its axis.
To change the cutting depth, simply expose more blade. This is useful for both thick wood and non-through cuts. Altering the blade axis enables cutting at an angle, known as a bevel cut, ideal for crafting joints.
Previously, table saw blades had the sole purpose of cutting wood. However, they have now evolved to be capable of cutting through a variety of materials including metal and plastic. It should be noted that while most blades are still made from metal, advancements have allowed for the addition of special alloys and materials in the teeth, as well as the use of carbon composites in the body.
Blade Sizing: Getting the Right Fit
Table saw blades are categorized by two key measurements: their outside diameter and the diameter of the mounting hole. Standard blades typically come in sizes of 8, 10, or 12 inches in diameter, though they can range from as small as 3 3/8 inches to as large as 30 inches. While the smaller blades are suited for specialized tasks, the larger ones are primarily used for heavy-duty commercial applications. With a 30-inch blade, you're dealing with some serious cutting power!
The simplest way to determine the correct blade size for your table saw is to check the instruction manual. Additionally, consider the physical limitations of your saw—there is only so much space within the arbor, meaning not every blade will fit. The presence of a blade guard also restricts the available space, so always ensure compatibility before making a selection.
When it comes to the arbor, the central hole on most table saw blades is typically 5/8 inches in diameter. However, there can be exceptions to this standard. As long as the saw supports both the diameter and arbor, you are making a good choice.
Blade Types: Rip, Crosscut, and Specialty Blades
There are two main types of table saw blades: rip and crosscut. A rip blade has fewer teeth and larger gullets, allowing for more space to remove shavings and dust. This type of blade is ideal for cutting in the direction of the grain, but due to its speed, the cuts may not be as smooth.
For those looking for precision cuts, a crosscut blade is the ideal choice. It yields a smoother cut, but due to its narrower teeth and higher number of teeth, the cutting process may be slower as there is less room for chip removal and more teeth to go through the wood.
For those seeking both swiftness and a polished result, combination blades are available that aim to fulfill both functions. Additionally, one may encounter unique cutting blades. These may be specifically designed for slicing through materials such as plywood, hardwood, metal, plastic, or brick, or they may have a specific purpose in creating joints. Examples of this include dado blade sets.
Blade Teeth: Smoothness vs. Speed
The number of teeth on a blade directly affects the quality of the cut. Typically, blades have a tooth count ranging from 24 to 80, unless they are specifically designed for cutting through specific materials.
Why opt for more or less teeth? While a greater number guarantees a smoother cut, it also results in a slower cutting process. Conversely, fewer teeth allow for quicker cutting, but the resulting cut may be rougher.
A crucial safety tip: never try to speed up a cut by forcefully pushing the wood into the blade. Doing so increases the risk of kickback, which can send the wood flying back toward you at high speed, potentially causing serious injury. Always let the blade do the work and maintain a steady, controlled feed for a safe and precise cut. Patience is key.
Blade Materials: Matching the Job
Blades designed for cutting plywood and hardwood are typically made of metal, offering durability and precision. However, when it comes to cutting through tougher materials, stronger substances are required. To enhance cutting power, these specialized blades feature an ultra-hard material—such as diamond or carbide—applied to the edges, while the metal core remains intact. This combination ensures the blade can withstand demanding tasks while maintaining strength and longevity.
Wood-cutting blades typically feature teeth made from steel or carbon steel, providing durability and sharpness for clean cuts. Masonry blades, on the other hand, are designed for tougher materials and often have diamond-tipped teeth for enhanced cutting power. For cutting through aluminum and steel, specialized blades are treated with hardened metal or tungsten carbide to maintain their edge and resist wear. Additionally, blades designed for PVC and acrylic materials utilize low-temperature tungsten carbide teeth, ensuring smooth and precise cuts without melting or damage.
Blade RPM: Safety and Compatibility
Blade speed is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute), and it’s crucial to ensure that the table saw’s speed never exceeds the blade’s maximum rated RPM. Each blade is engineered to operate within a specific speed range, and exceeding this limit can create excessive centrifugal force, leading to potential blade failure or breakage. Always check both the saw and blade specifications to ensure compatibility and safe operation.
Final Thoughts
This covers the essential details you need to know about table saw blades. If you're interested in diving deeper into blade types, materials, and performance characteristics, this information provides a solid foundation to build upon as you expand your knowledge.