A sharp blade is a key to maximizing cutting performance and accuracy. Instead of having to regularly change the shank for the tool, sharpening the saw blades is a much more economical way.
So, how to sharpen a circular saw blade to increase work efficiency as well as increase its lifespan? Read on for details!
Why Sharpen Circular Saw Blades?
It is inevitable that your machine blades will wear out after a long period of use, which directly affects your work.
If you use the machine to cut wood, the hacksaw is continuous for a long time without cleaning. This will cause the sawdust to get stuck in the slots, resulting in the loss of chips and heat. When the shank is worn, it also causes the machine to vibrate.
Once the chip exit slots are blocked, your shank will be jamming and significantly affecting the cutting ability.
Cases where you should sharpen the blades:
- Becomes dull after a long time of use
- Out of alloy, affecting the quality of work
- Chipped, but only chipped in a certain number of teeth and the chip is not too large.
If the chip is large, you should replace it with a new one to ensure efficiency.
Note: Never sharpen saw blades made of carbide compounds because their teeth are difficult to sharpen and can pop out when you sharpen them, which is very dangerous.
How To Sharpen Circular Saw Blades?
Remove
Do not sharpen the shank while it is still in the machine. The first thing you should do is remove it.
Most sawing machines have a shank release switch, which will make your job easier. For older models, you need a removal tool such as a wrench.
Secure The Blades
You can secure the blades with a vice grip. The standard position is that you should clamp it upside down and it should be facing up, while its teeth are facing you. Be careful not to over tighten, or else you can warp the metal holding the teeth.
Make Marks
Marking on the shank’s top is very important. You will be able to know if the surrounding of the shank is in full cover. This step will also remind you not to sharpen the shank twice.
Not that the right angle is the one in which you face a bevel (two cutting edges after each point), and that is the angle for starting the work.
In particular, mark and hold your spot at an angle of about 20 degrees from the bevel.
Move four more up and down swipes close by the first nose’s bevel. If the need arises, swipe a few more times according to your will to meet your desired results.
Check The Bevels
Indeed, this is one of the important stages. Similar to how you apply strokes for the first shank, repeat this step till you move through around your shank.
Turn The Blade
Do exactly the same as step three and make sure you’ve marked your starting point.
Rasp The Tips
All you need to do is constantly rasping the tips back and forth to prevent them from attrition. This can be the face with all the ends of the shank.
Install
The last step is simple: all you have to do is to reinstall the blade to the machine. You can comfortably use it for professional cuts and the best work efficiency.
Caring Tips
Keep The Blade Away From Humidity
No matter whether your blade is expensive or affordable, it will only last shortly if you keep the blade in humid places. It’s better to keep the blade as dry as possible.
Only Use The Blade According To Its Functions
Lengthen your blades’ lifespan by letting them do the job they are supposed to do. Each shank has its own purpose. If you use them for unsuitable tasks, there is a high chance that they will be damaged.
Hang The Blades On High Places
The shank can get dull if you don’t know how to take care of it. This leads to a significant reduction in the sharpness. Thus, keep the blades out of contact with the floor.
Applying Nylon Brush And Solvent for Cleaning
If you use it for a long period of time, it will get dusty. Therefore, you should wipe out all the dust with a nylon brush. Remember to coat the carbide teeth with solvent to keep it working properly.
Be mindful not to use harsh chemicals, as they will cause the coating to come off.
Conclusion
This is the end of our blog! Now, you’ve learned how to sharpen circular saw blades and take good care of them.
We hope the article will help you in your work. Although the task requires your time and effort, sharpening your blades manually usually gives better results.