Electric saws are very useful as machine tools. However, because of the different types of electric saws currently available, choosing the right one that can handle the task can be quite confusing. Under the electric saws category, there are some sub-categories, making it challenging to remember what each type of saw can do. In this article, you will learn about these different types of electric saws.
1. Table Saws
Table saws are among the most common types of electric saws that can be found in almost any workshop. From DIYers to professionals, table saws have become an important tool. This type of electric saw is simple. It uses a circular saw blade that is spun at high speeds at a stationary position, while the operator feeds wood to the blade. It is used widely in woodworking, for cutting wood, medium-density fiberboard or MDF, plywood, plastic, as well as soft metals, such as aluminum.
2. Circular Saws
Similar to table saws, circular saws are also common in both DIY and professional workshops. This tool is both versatile and portable. The primary purpose of this type of saw is to cut wood and soft materials. It can be used in cutting tough materials such as metal, but using the right circular saw blade. It uses a rotating blade that is pushed across the workpiece, cutting through it.
3. Miter Saws
A miter saw is a specialized tool. As implied by its name, it is used in creating a particular type of cut – miter cuts. These cuts are created at any angle aside from the 90-degrees angle, through the length of the wood’s width. While they can also produce 90-degree cuts, angular cuts are the specialty of this equipment since crosscuts can be done easily using a table saw.
4. Radial Arm Saws
These saws are unique. Instead of the blade being attached to the table, it is connected to a mobile arm. The design makes it opposite to a table saw. The piece is placed in a stationary position on the table, and the rotating blade, together with the blade head, moves along the arm in a straight line. The main use of this type of saw is to serve as an all-in-one cutting saw for creating miter cuts, crosscuts, compound cuts, and others.
5. Chop Saws
A chop saw is a specialized type of electric saw that is an idea for cutting tough materials. Even though they may look similar to a miter saw, a chop saws’ role is different because it works mainly on hard materials like brick, metal, masonry, and concrete. They are also commonly found in professional workshops since DIYers do not normally cut tough materials all the time.
6. Chainsaws
Chainsaws use chains of connected teeth in cutting through different types of materials. It is used primarily in cutting wood. While it does not provide accurate cuts, it is an efficient and quick way to cut through huge amounts of wood in just a short amount of time.
7. Jigsaws
Jigsaws are similar to reciprocating saws, but with two main differences. For one, jigsaw blades aim downward, rather than jutting out from the saw nose. Also, they are specifically designed to create curved or non-straight cuts.
8. Reciprocating Saws
These types of saws work differently than with other types of saws in this list. The blade of this saw is pushed forward and pulled back, and repeated at a fast pace. This constant movement creates a sawing act that cuts wood. It is a handheld power tool with a cordless and corded version.
9. Scroll Saws
These saws are highly specialized. They work with two wheels manipulating a band of continuous metal. They are also designed for producing extremely accurate cuts. If you need to create patterns or produce intricate cuts on wood, this is the saw that you need. As such, it is popular among many woodworkers who specialize in creating wood art, wooden toys, and others.
10. Band Saws
These saws operate by moving a continuous metal band into two wheels, creating cutting power. They are ideal for cutting tubes, curved objects, and piping, and comes in either horizontal or vertical models. Vertical band saws are seen mostly in woodworking, used in ripping long lumber, creating crosscuts, and make miter cuts. Horizontal saws, on the other hand, are used mainly in metalworking. There are also stationary models, but they can be bulky.
Conclusion
In this guide, you have learned about the different types of electric saws. This category might be complicated, but with the right information available, you now have an idea of what they do, and which type of saw is suitable for your specific type of work. Whether you are a beginner in woodworking, or a professional, knowing about these saws will help you maximize the benefits that they offer. Why not share your thoughts with us? Leave them in the comments section below!
Leave a Reply