How to use a Circular Saw?

The circular saws They are one of the most used tools for woodworking jobs, and can even cut practically any material if you have the right type of blade and know the precise technique. Despite being one of the most used power tools, it is always good to review some basic tips that allow us to achieve the expected results.

Supervision of the tool and workspace.

Here are some simple steps that every operator should take into account before starting to work with a circular saw:
• Check the lock switch: the lock switch, or safe, is the device that prevents the saw from being operated accidentally. It is absolutely essential to verify that the tool is blocked before starting to work with it, and even before connecting it to the electrical network. Relock the saw each time you finish using it.
• Check the condition of the circular saw in general: Make sure the blade is in the optimal conditions, that does not present traces of oxidation, dullness, cracks or deviations. Thoroughly inspect the condition of the protective housing and controls. Never use a tool that is not in perfect condition.
• Check the status of your workplace: It is important that it is in perfect order, avoiding the presence of unnecessary objects, and clearing all the space that is required to make the cuts. It is also advisable to remove all traces of sawdust or other debris, before starting work and also during work, as it will allow a better visualization of the results.
• Wear the appropriate protective equipment: Always wear thick gloves Y glasses when cutting.

Preparation of the cut.
One of the characteristics that makes circular saws such good tools is the ability of the user to to be able to change the cutting disks. There is a huge variety, each one designed to work with a particular type of material and perform a certain precise type of cut.
The discs with large toothed They can be used in general for almost any type of wood, if the direction of the cut is parallel to the grain or threads of the wood. On the other hand, discs with fine toothed They are designed to make cuts that are more precise and require greater force, such as hardwoods, chipboards, plywood, etc. There are models that incorporate tips of carbide or Diamond, which makes them much more resistant and durable and allows working with materials as hard as concrete. Finally, the discs of very fine teeth They allow precision work and cuts perpendicular to the grain or threads of the wood.
It is important to choose the right cut-off wheel for each type of job, because if the material offers too much resistance or offers too little, the saw could get out of control and ruin the material or cause an accident.
Forever unplug the saw power supply before changing the blade, adjusting the depth or incline, or performing any setting.

The saws allow you to adjust the depth or height of the cut. To measure it, you can place the piece you want to cut next to the saw and adjust it so that it does not exceed a distance greater than 4 mm the edge of the material.
Before cutting, make sure that the wood does not present knots, nails or other obstacles that may interrupt the cut. Fix the wood to a stable surface and make sure it is perfectly firm throughout the operation.
When you measure, and mark the guide lines, always keep in mind the disc width cutting.

Using a wood as a guide for a circular saw

Many models of hand saw have built-in guides They can be adjusted to ensure a perfectly straight cut. In case your model does not have them, or the size of the guides is insufficient, you can always use a straight piece of wood or aluminum for your reference.

If you need to make a cut perpendicular to the grain or threads of the wood, you can mark cutting line first using a pitchfork. Score the line at least three times with the cutting edge of the knife before using the circular saw.

Cutting technique.
1. Check that the cable feeding don’t get in the way with the direction of the cut.
2. Place the machine in position and lean over it.
3. Start the machine. For him sound what the motor does, it is easy to recognize when it has already reached its maximum speed and maintains a speed constant.
4. When holding the saw, take care to do not exercise on the same one excessive pressure, just hold it with firmness.
5. When starting to cut, make a slow movement until the blade is in the material. Then advance to a constant velocity, guided by the sound of the saw to be cut, which must be the most regular possible.
6. If the sound of the saw becomes too serious, this is a sign that the blade is finding too much resistance. To avoid this, slow down, or replace the disc with one with smaller teeth.
7. Don’t stop the saw until the job is completed.

Safety first.

Despite being tools that are used every day, never forget that saws are tools dangerous. Its misuse can cause from minor injuries to mutilations. These simple tips will help you to do a neat job, but above all, they will allow you to take care of your own security.