How to Use a Table Saw: A Comprehensive Guide

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TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR TABLE SAW

For professional tradespeople and weekend woodworkers looking to expand their skills, a table saw is indispensable. Table saws are known for their precision, efficiency, versatility, consistency, and ease of use. When you know how to use a table saw, they can significantly enhance the quality of your work.

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WHAT IS A TABLE SAW?

A table saw, also known as a bench saw or a saw bench, is a powerful tool used to make straight, precise cuts in sheet material, primarily wood. It includes a flat tabletop that serves as a level worksurface, a circular blade that protrudes from the table's surface, and an electric motor. For accurate straight cuts, pair your table saw with accessories like a rip fence and a mitre guide. To ensure safety, table saws typically come with a blade guard, a dust collection system, and a splitting wedge.

Tasks for table saws include making rip cuts, crosscuts, mitre cuts, bevel cuts, dadoes and grooves, and rabbets.

A GUIDE TO USING A TABLE SAW

To successfully use a table saw, you’ll need to know how to set it up, how to make a cut, and how to ensure your safety at all times.

HOW TO SET UP A TABLE SAW

Before you start cutting, setting up your workstation and table saw is essential. You’ll begin by finding a spot which gives you enough room to manoeuvre freely. Next, place your table saw onto your workbench or underframe, ensuring it is level and stable to prevent movement during use. Select the correct blade for the job, considering the material and the types of cuts you will be making. Install the blade and secure it before adjusting the blade height according to the thickness of the workpiece. The blade should only extend just above the material you are cutting.

HOW TO MAKE A CUT USING A TABLE SAW

If you are making a rip cut (along the grain of the wood), you will place a fence in the trench to the right of the blade. The length of the wood will be flush with the fence while you make your cut. If you are making a crosscut or a mitre cut, you will position the mitre guide in the trench on the left of the blade, with the workpiece flush against the mitre guide, perpendicular or at an angle to the blade. Keep the workpiece at a safe distance from the blade until you are ready to make your cut.

Turn on the saw; once it reaches full speed, you can gently and steadily slide the material towards the blade, keeping a firm grip on the workpiece. Ensure the workpiece is firmly pressed against the fence or mitre guide to ensure the cuts are straight and precise.

It is critical to never reach across the blade, overextend your hands, or hold your hands too close to the table saw's blade. Your hands should always be at least six inches away from the moving blade. To continue pushing the workpiece through the blade, use a push stick to support the wood.

Once you have made your cut, you can switch the saw off. Wait for the blade to come to a complete halt before moving your workpiece or accessories.

TABLE SAW SAFETY TIPS

Adhering to safety protocol when using a table saw is critical:

Always wear safety gear such as ear protection and safety glasses.
Always keep your hands clear of a moving blade; never reach across, over, or behind it when in motion.
Use push sticks to guide the material along the blade.
Keep your workspace clean, your table free of scraps, and the floor clear of tools and materials.
Before starting, familiarise yourself with your table saw by reading the manual.
Purchase a table saw with safety features such as an emergency brake and responsive sensor.

For many, Festool is the first choice when searching for high-quality power tools. You can rely on Festool for superior safety features, powerful motors, a wide range of accessories, and exceptional after-sales service. Take a look at the Festool range of table saws and book a demo today.