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WHICH WAY TO INSTALL A BLADE ON A CIRCULAR SAW
Maintaining and setting up power tools is critical for tradespeople and DIY lovers to ensure high-quality work and a safe work environment. Circular saws are the kind of tool that need to be taken care of meticulously and part of this care involves the proper installation of the blade. The proper installation of the blade on a circular saw is crucial for safety and achieving clean, precise cuts. So, which way do you install a blade on a circular saw? Let’s talk about circular saw blades, installation, safety, and the Festool FastFix blade changing system.
THE HAZARDS OF INCORRECT BLADE INSTALLATION
An incorrectly installed circular saw blade can be extremely hazardous. If the blade is loose or wobbly during operation, it will lead to uneven cuts and an increased risk of kickback. Kickbacks occur for various reasons such as when the blade is pinched or misaligned, causing the saw to lift up and out of the workpiece toward you which may result in injury. Another important thing to note is that an incorrectly installed blade can also cause heat build-up due to excessive friction which can damage the blade and the saw motor.
HOW TO INSTALL A BLADE ON A CIRCULAR SAW
The first and most important thing to remember when installing a new blade on a circular saw is safety. Begin by unplugging the saw from its power source, setting it down on a stable surface, and then switching on the safety to lock the blade into place. On a Festool circular saw you will simply engage the FastFix by pulling down the green lever on the handle. Next, use the provided Allen key to loosen the blade nut and washer, then slide out the old blade and replace it with a new one. Finish by replacing the washer and nut and tightening it with the Allan key. Take care not to over-tighten the blade nut. You might want to try a test cut on some scrap material before using the new blade on your next project.
SEE ALSO:
- Plunge Cut Saws: A How-to-Use Guide
- How to put a blade on a circular saw
- How to Cut Straight Using a Circular Saw
- Plunge Cut Saws and Blade Size
- How to build a workstation for a table saw
- How to Cut a Board Straight with a Circular Saw
- How to use a Table Saw
- Circular Saws - how to change the blade
- Circular Saws - which way to install a blade
- Expert Insights: Table Saw Tips and Tricks from Professionals
PAY ATTENTION TO THE DIRECTION OF THE BLADE'S TEETH
It is crucial to orient the blade correctly. If the teeth face the wrong direction, the saw will not cut as effectively or cleanly. If the teeth are curved, the blade needs to be installed so that the teeth point towards the front of the saw. Alternatively, you can refer to the markings on the blade or housing to ensure the blade is correctly oriented.
THE BENEFITS OF FESTOOL'S FASTFIX BLADE CHANGING SYSTEM
Festool’s FastFix blade changing system simplifies blade changes and speeds up the process. Pulling down the green FastFix lever locks both the switch and the sawing shaft to prevent movement of the blade and ensure your safety.
It is critical that circular saw blades are correctly installed. Even though the saw may appear to be cutting, the finish will not be as clean and there is an increased risk of injury from kickback. In addition, an incorrectly installed blade can affect the longevity of the saw. To avoid these hazards, always ensure correct installation, orientation, and the sharpness of the circular saw blade.
