A radial arm saw uses a circular saw blade that is typically 7 inches to 10 inches in diameter. The blade is mounted onto a sliding carriage on a radial arm, which has a wide range of motion and can be adjusted for different cuts in material such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and more.
The size of the blade and the range of motion make this a versatile tool for many uses in woodworking, cabinets and furniture making, as well as other construction projects. The blade must be sharpened regularly to ensure proper and accurate cutting.
What is the most common size blade used on a radial saw?
The size of the blade used on a radial saw depends on the specific model and purpose of the saw; however, a standard blade size is typically 10 inches (25.4 cm). This size is popular because it provides enough power for most sawing tasks without being too unwieldy for some of the more advanced cuts.
Additionally, a 10-inch blade is generally strong enough to cut through thicker materials, such as plywood or sheet metal, as well as common lumber sizes. If a larger blade is needed for more powerful cutting, some radial saws can accommodate blades up to 12 inches (30.5 cm).
However, the larger size may be too unwieldy for some users, and more practice may be needed for optimum performance. As with any saw, determining the correct blade size is essential for the safest and most efficient use of the saw.
Can you use a smaller blade on a radial arm saw?
Yes, you can use a smaller blade on a radial arm saw depending on the size of the saw and the size of the blade. Generally, a radial arm saw uses a 10 inch blade, but smaller blades such as seven and a half inch blades can be used.
The size of the blade you can use is limited by the size and power of the saw itself. Depending on the type of material you want to cut, you may need to use a blade specifically designed for that material.
A seven and a half inch blade is ideal for smaller projects and detailed work.
What type of cut should you not do with the radial arm saw?
You should not use a radial arm saw to make rip cuts, or cutting along the length of the wood. This type of cut is more suited for a table saw. The radial arm saw is more suitable for crosscuts, or cutting across the grain of the wood, as well as for making miter cuts and complicated cuts that combine miter and bevel angles.
It can also be used to make dadoes, rabbets and other joinery, as well as bevel or compound miter cuts.
Do people still use radial arm saws?
Yes, people still use radial arm saws today. Radial arm saws can be incredibly effective tools for making precise cuts in wood, metal, and plastic. They are incredibly versatile and can make cuts that would be difficult or impossible to make with other power saws.
Radial arm saws are particularly popular with experienced woodworkers who need to make precise, detailed cuts. Radial arm saws are available in portable and stationary models and feature a circular-saw blade that is mounted on an arm that can be extended and angled to the desired cutting position.
They are ideal for making angled, beveled, and compound miter cuts. Radial arm saws are also known for their power and sturdiness, making them ideal for heavier and tougher materials.
What is the average cost of a radial arm saw?
The average cost of a radial arm saw depends on a variety of factors, such as the make and model, the quality of the materials used, and the availability of the saw. Generally, radial arm saws range from $200 – $3000, with lower-priced models typically available at home improvement stores, and higher priced models available at both retail and specialty outlets.
It is important to take some time researching different models and brands before committing to a purchase, as this will ensure you find a saw that meets your needs and falls within your budget. Additionally, users should consider renting a radial arm saw for short-term projects, as rental fees are often considerably lower than full purchase prices.
Why were Craftsman radial arm saws recalled?
In 2004, Craftsman Radial Arm Saws (CRAFTSMAN Model Numbers 137.248810 and 137.248811) were recalled due to a manufacturing defect in the tree bracket. This defect caused the saw to move forward unexpectedly, posing a risk of serious injury. The U.
S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Sears, Roebuck and Co. , of Hoffman Estates, Ill. , announced the recall in October 2004.
The defect was due to a malfunction within the tree bracket, the piece that holds the saw blade to the blade support arm. This piece was subject to a manufacturing fault that could result in the saw blade moving forward without warning.
There were reports of individual being cut as a result of this defect, and the saws were recalled due to this potential hazard.
The saws were recalled in the United States and Canada. The recall applied to CRAFTSMAN Radial Arm Saws that were manufactured by the Taiwan-based Long Cheng Machinery Company, Ltd. from November 1999 through December 2001.
Affected models had model numbers of 137.248810 and 137.248811. These recalled saws had a manual below the back saw where the operator puts the on/off switch and the date of the manufacture indicates at the start of the serial number.
In response to the recall, owners were asked to discontinue using the recalled product and contact the company to arrange for a free repair. Craftsman offered to replace the defective tree bracket and install a “safety device” to the arm.
The safety device was designed to prevent the blade from moving forward unintentionally.
Is a radial arm saw better than a table saw?
The answer to this question largely depends on the type of project you are working on and the size of the material you are cutting. Generally, a radial arm saw is better suited for larger pieces of material and offers a wider range of cutting capability than a table saw in regards to angle cuts and bevels.
Additionally, a radial arm saw often has a longer arm which allows for greater cutting capacity than a traditional table saw.
In comparison, a table saw is better for smaller projects or projects requiring precision cuts on narrower pieces of material. In addition, a table saw is typically lower cost and easier to transport than a radial arm saw.
In summary, the best saw for your particular project depends on the types of cuts you’re likely to make and the materials you’ll be working with. However, most experts agree that a radial arm saw provides more overall versatility than a table saw.
Can you use a radial arm saw to cut metal?
No, you cannot use a radial arm saw to cut metal. A radial arm saw is designed to work with wood, plastic, and non-ferrous metals like aluminum, but not steel or other harder metals. If you need to cut metal, you should use a metal-cutting saw, such as a band saw, jigsaw, or circular saw with a metal-cutting blade.
Metal-cutting blades use high speed and specialized teeth to more efficiently cut metal without damaging the saw or creating a dangerous situation. In addition, metal-cutting saws require the use of protective gear, like safety glasses and hearing protection, due to the potential for sparks and debris to fly off during the cutting process.
When operating the radial arm saw you should?
When operating a radial arm saw, it is important to take all necessary safety precautions to avoid injury and ensure proper operation. Before using the saw, it is essential to read the user manual in order to understand the saw’s capabilities, as well as become familiar with the controls and features of the machine.
It is also important to inspect the saw to make sure that all its protective devices, such as guards and shields, are in working order. Additionally, the saw should be firmly secured to the work bench to prevent the saw from unexpectedly shifting or falling over during operation.
Wearing proper safety equipment, such as safety glasses and hearing protection, is also essential when operating a radial arm saw. When beginning the saw, adjust the cutting depth and speed, then position your body and the material in a way that the saw blade runs away from you.
Always keep your hands and other body parts away from the saw’s cutting surface while it is engaged, and be sure to disconnect the saw from its power source when you are finished. Following correct safety procedures when utilizing a radial arm saw is essential for producing a successful and safe operation.
What is the most important thing to remember while using the radial arm saw?
The most important thing to remember while using a radial arm saw is to wear proper safety equipment, including eye, ear, and head protection. Additionally, keep protective barriers or guards in place on the saw and make sure it is properly adjusted.
Make sure that the saw blade is sharp, and the tension is correct. Finally, always cut away from your body and away from other operators. Before starting a cut, you should carefully plan out the entire cut and ensure your material is clamped securely to the table.
Use only firm pressure while pushing the saw across the material, and bring it to a stop before removing it. Finally, do not reach over the saw or put any part of your body in contact with the cutting area.
What are proper safeguards for the operation of a radial saw?
Proper safeguards for the operation of a radial saw include:
1. Ensuring all guards are in place, undamaged and functioning before use. This includes the blade guard, the splitter and the anti-kickback pawls.
2. Only operate with a saw blade specifically designed for this tool.
3. Wear proper protective gear, such as goggles, face shield, hearing protection, and dust mask.
4. Ensure the work surface is steady and secure.
5. Secure workpiece firmly with a clamp.
6. Start the saw before beginning the cut.
7. Feed the material into the blade at a steady, even pressure.
8. Keep both hands on the saw when operating.
9. Do not attempt to remove chips or sawdust while the saw is running.
10. Turn off the saw before setting down or moving the material.
11. Do not attempt to free a stuck blade. Turn off the saw and raise the blade guard.
12. After completing a cut, turn off the saw and wait for the blade to stop spinning before touching anything.
13. Disconnect the saw from its power source before making any adjustments.
14. Be aware of kickback which can occur if the saw binds in the material.
15. Clean any debris around the saw before starting.
16. Regularly inspect the saw, blade, and all its parts for wear or damage.
What are circular saws normally used for?
Circular saws are one of the most universally used tools in the construction and carpentry industry. They are a type of power saw that uses a circular blade to make accurate and smooth cuts in wood and other materials.
This type of saw is typically used for making straight cuts in wood, plywood and particle board, and it can be used to rip, crosscut and make miter and bevel cuts. They are also often used for cutting plastic, metal and tile.
Due to their portability, they are often used for jobs that require a large saw that needs to be taken on location. Circular saws can range in size from small handheld systems to larger table saws and are powered either by electricity or a battery.
How many teeth does a radial arm saw blade have?
The number of teeth on a radial arm saw blade will vary depending on the type of blade and the material it is intended to cut. Generally speaking, the blades used to cut wood will have more teeth than those used to cut through metal.
For woodworking applications, the most common blades will have 80 or 100 teeth, although higher-end blades may have up to 150 teeth. For metalworking applications, blades will typically have 36 to 50 teeth.