|
A Reciprocating saw is a power saw that
performs the sawing action by the to and fro motion of the blade. Some
examples of reciprocating saws include rotary saws, saber saws, scroll
saws, and jig saws. These saws can be used for cutting, sawing, and
wood molding. Highly accurate cuts can be made in varied materials,
such as plaster, wood, drywall, metal, PVC, sheet-rock, and even pipes.
This tool is popular with skilled workers like carpenters, masons, and
plumbers. These tools form handy implements to be kept in the tool kit
of any household too. Some other applications of reciprocating saws
include cutting smaller radius curves, mortising, and landscaping
timber.
Features and working of a reciprocating saw
The reciprocating saw works by moving its
blade rapidly forwards and backwards over the surface to be cut. The
blade juts out from a base plate which is usually pressed against one
side of the surface to be cut. Even though these saws are not used in
cases that require extreme accuracy, they are better than circular saws
since they can be used in relatively inaccessible areas. The movement
of the blade is controlled by a motor. The blade is the most important
part of the saw and for best results it is essential to use the correct
blade for the intended application. Generally, blades with finer teeth
are meant for metal cutting, while more abrasive blades are used for
cutting tile. In addition to these specialized blades, there are
certain blades that can be used for a wide variety of materials.
Normally, a 24-tooth blade is used for wood cutting and a 32-tooth
blade is used for metal cutting. Some saws have a four-position blade
clamp that allows flush cutting.
These saws are either corded or cordless.
Corded saws have a power cord that needs to be connected to a power
source. Cordless saws, on the other hand, work on removable
Rechargeable batteries. Thus, cordless saws are completely portable and
can be used anywhere as well as in the outdoors. Cordless reciprocating
saws are usually shipped with extra batteries and a battery charger.
The performance of the saw depends on the
stroke action. Some saws have a dual stroke feature, with the 1-1/4
inch stroke being used for fast a powerful cuts and the 3/4 inch stroke
being used for plunge cuts and other cuts which require more accuracy.
Shorter the length of the stroke, the lesser the portion of the blade
that gets worn off. However, this implies that the saw needs to be
moved along during use to prevent uneven wearing of the blade.
An average reciprocating saw utilizes around
18 to 24 volts to generate a no-load output of around 2300 to 2900
strokes per minute (spm). Normally, depending on the intended use the
speed of the tool can be changed by the user. This speed can be
controlled either through a dial or through the trigger pressure. A
two-speed feature enables different speeds for wood and metal cutting.
Cordless saws use efficient batteries that
offer longer life spans and longer running time on a single charge.
Some battery packs are fan-cooled, increasing the charges by as much as
three times.
Most reciprocating saws incorporate an
orbital mode, which enables the blade to move in an oval path both in
the vertical and horizontal planes. This mode facilitates cutting
through rigid lumber.
What to look for in a reciprocating saw
Since the blade may need to be changed after
a period of time, a tool-free blade changing mechanism will ensure
quick and easy removal and replacement of the blade. The life of the
blade can be enhanced through a pushbutton foot adjustment that can
control the depth-of-cut. The body of the reciprocating saw is
intentionally made lightweight and compact to facilitate easy access
into tight corners and to enhance the power to weight ratio. A rubber
foot ensures better grip of the surface. The handle of the saw is
ergonomically contoured to increase comfort of the user and reduce
fatigue during prolonged operation.
As with any cutting power tool, the safety
factor cannot be ignored. An electric brake allows the tool blade to be
stopped instantly. A lock off throttle prevents the tool from starting
up accidentally. Some of the saws have a built-in lamp to light up the
cutting line and the work area.
Some reputed manufacturers of
reciprocating saws include Astro Pneumatic, Bosch, Blumol, Chicago
Pneumatic, Coleman Powermate, Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ingersoll
Rand, and TD Industrial.
Discuss this article on the forums. (0 posts)
Trackback(0)
 |
TrackBack URI for this entry
Subscribe to this comment's feed
