When selecting a saw blade for cutting, it’s important to know what to look for. Choosing a blade with the right material type and TPI (teeth per inch) can make a big difference in the quality of cut. Whether you’re cutting wood, metal or composite materials, the proper blade can ensure you get a clean, smooth cut. However, choosing the wrong blade can leave you with uneven cuts, burn marks and uneven surfaces.
One of the most common misconceptions about saws is that the teeth are hardened. This is not the case, as most manufacturers actually harden the entire blade. Hardened teeth are harder than regular ones, so you won’t be able to sharpen them with a normal file. Alternatively, manufacturers have developed diamond files that can be used to shape the teeth.
The kerf, or groove, is a recessed area that the teeth cut into the grain of the wood. Its width is generally wider than the width of the blade, though the exact width can vary. A gullet is a relief area that the tooth cuts in front of the kerf. As the saw blade rotates, material will be cut away from the tooth in the gullet.
Tooth angle is the angle of the teeth relative to the blade’s center line. This angle can also affect the finish of the cut. Blades with a higher positive hook angle mean they are more aggressive. In general, a negative hook angle means they are less aggressive. If a blade is too aggressive, it can cause a climb cut or self-feed. Conversely, a high bevel angle is ideal for cutting thin veneers or composite materials.
Another feature of a good blade is the oblique angle. These angles can be flat, alternating, or even high. All of them can impact the quality of the cut. Depending on the type of saw and the type of material being cut, a blade with a oblique bevel can create a cleaner cut, or a dull one.
Blades with a wider kerf can be useful for reducing the amount of vibration. This makes it easier to cut through wood. Additionally, a thinner kerf can be a benefit when it comes to reducing the amount of machinery muscle needed to force through solid wood. Thin kerf blades are also more suitable for trimming hardwoods.
Other features to consider include the number of teeth and the angle of the teeth. A blade with more teeth can make a smoother cut, but will also run hotter. Also, a blade with fewer teeth can be more suited for rough cuts, but will also reduce the quality of the cut. Ideally, a good blade will have three teeth in contact with the material, or at least two. Lastly, a good blade will have a thicker carbide tip, which will provide increased wear resistance.
Regardless of the blade type, it’s important to choose the correct accessories to match the job. It’s also important to use the right power to ensure you get a smooth, clean cut. To maintain a blade, you may want to wipe it down with pitch solvent.