Features and working of a benchtop table saw

A benchtop table saw is generally powered by a direct-drive, dual belt motor using around 10 to 15 amps, to generate an output of around 3500 to 4000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The motor is mounted in a way to reduce the vibrations during use. The constant response circuitry maintains the torque at a constant Level even during demanding tasks, to prevent overloading and the resulting burnout of the motor. 

Despite the fact that most benchtop table saws have a 10 inch diameter blade, similar to larger stationary saws, they are still small enough to be carried around. A cast aluminum tabletop with a steel framework lightens the tool, with the average weight ranging from around 30 to 80 pounds. Manufacturers have intentionally kept the size of the tool relatively small, the table dimensions being around 18 x 27 inches. Some table saws have sliding extensions that increase the width of the tabletop by around half a foot, which proves useful during cross cutting tasks. A Fence and rail system is incorporated in some saws to facilitate jobs that require a wider area. The front rail may have an inch scale to indicate the location of the fence when the table is closed. A rack-and-pinion design enables the user to adjust the fence to specific requirements quickly. Occasionally, a telescopic fence is used to provide a ripping capacity of more than 2 feet, to cut exceptionally large sheets.

The most commonly used blade is the carbide-tipped blade that offers the most versatile cutting functionality.   The blade height can be controlled with a handwheel provided towards the anterior portion of the tool. The blade angle, too, can be set according to requirements with a geared adjustment system. Bevel cuts can be made at angles ranging from around -2 to 47 degrees. For improved efficiency, the user can avail of the miter gage that provides stops at commonly used angles such as 30, 45, and 90 degrees. At 90 degrees, the depth of cut is around 3 1/8 inch. 

What to look for in a benchtop table saw

A three fold shielding mechanism protects the blade; a plastic transparent guard surrounds the blade, a splitter prevents the stock from hitting the back of the blade, and anti-kickback pawls ensure smooth cutting. To reduce wear, the tabletop is rendered with a powder-coat finish. Blades become blunt after prolonged usage and may need to be changed depending on the intended task – a sharper blade always yields better results. An arbor lock facilitates easy changing of the blade.

Considering the power of the tool and the sharpness of the blade, it could be dangerous to the user and also may cause a jagged cut to the material, if the saw were to start at full speed with a jerk. The soft start feature ensures that the torque builds up gradually. During cutting there is bound to be a great deal of dust being generated. A vacuum-linked dust collection system keeps the environment clean for the user and also prevents the dust from entering the tool and clogging the internal components. To avoid usage of the tool by an inexperienced user, the On/Off switch can be detached from the tool body.

For added stability and rigidity, the benchtop table saw is attached to a 4-leg steel stand. Occasionally, the stand may have wheels with which the tool can be rolled along the ground. Some reputed manufacturers of benchtop table saws include Bosch, Delta, HTC, Porter-Cable, Powermatic, Ryobi, Skil, and TD Industrial.

Discuss this article on the forums. (0 posts) 

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

Write comment

Name

Email

Website

Title

Comment

smaller | bigger

Subscribe via email (Registered users only)

I have read and agree to the Terms of Usage.

Add Comment

---

If you enjoyed this article, please submit it to one of the following social bookmarking sites!