For trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts, understanding the correct use and maintenance of a tool is paramount. The circular saw and its blade are no different. Using a sharp, undamaged blade is as important as using the correct blade for the job. A well-maintained blade ensures sharp, accurate cuts and minimises the risk of mistakes.
In this article, we’ll explain how to put a blade on a circular saw to ensure you get the most out of your saw.
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
WHEN TO CHANGE A CIRCULAR SAW BLADE
Understanding when to change or replace your circular saw blade is vital to tool maintenance. When your saw is less efficient and precise, and the cuts produced aren’t as clean as they used to be, your blade may need to be sharpened or replaced. Likewise, if there is visible damage to the blade. A damaged, warped, or worn blade can pose safety risks. It is also critical to match the saw blade to the material you are working with for the best results.
HOW DO I REMOVE AND CHANGE A CIRCULAR SAW BLADE?
Replacing a circular saw blade is relatively simple. Begin by ensuring the saw is not connected to power or the battery is removed in the case of a cordless model. Next, secure the blade by engaging the blade lock or using a piece of wood. With the blade secured, use a wrench or Allen key to loosen the bolt holding it. Remove the bolt and the blade plate, then gently remove the old blade.
Mount the new blade on the spindle, with the teeth facing forward, ensuring correct orientation. Replace the blade plate and bolt and tighten it, taking care not to overtighten it. Overtightening the blade can damage or distort it. With the bolt secure, unlock the blade, and your saw is ready to cut.
HOW TO USE FESTOOL'S FASTFIX BLADE CHANGING SYSTEM
Festool’s FastFix blade changing system streamlines the process of changing a circular saw blade. With the saw disconnected from power, press the FastFix button to secure the arbour. This prevents the blade from moving during the change. Next, loosen the bolt with the Allen key provided.
After removing the bolt and the blade, insert the new blade, ensuring the teeth point forward. Replace the bolt, tighten it, and then release the FastFix button. Your saw is now ready to use.
ADVANTAGES OF THE FESTOOL FASTFIX BLADE CHANGING SYSTEM
The Festool FastFix blade changing system offers added safety, convenience, and efficiency. This system allows for quicker and more straightforward blade changes, saving time. The Allen key neatly stows away behind the FastFix lever, making it easy to find.
TYPES OF CIRCULAR SAW BLADES
Festool offers various circular saw blades, each tailored for a specific material, with a band of colour around the centre hole for easy selection. Yellow blades cut wood, red cuts laminate, blue cuts aluminium and plastic, and green blades cut abrasive materials like cement and fibre boards. When buying blades, ensure the chosen blade is compatible with your circular saw model. Using the correct blade ensures both its longevity and optimal cutting performance.
Learning to change a circular saw blade is essential for every tradie. Whether using a standard method or Festool’s FastFix system, the procedure is easy and promotes efficiency and safety while you work. You can easily achieve precise, clean cuts with the right blade for your material and cut. Through regular maintenance and correct use, your saw will perform for years to come.
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