Cut-off Saw

WHAT’S AT STAKE?

It is important to read fully to understand the contents of the owner’s manual about cut-off saws which are dangerous high-speed cutting tools.

WHAT’S THE DANGER?

An abrasive saw, also known as a cut-off saw or metal chop saw, is a power tool which is typically used to cut hard materials, such as metals. The cutting action is performed by an abrasive disc, similar to a thin grinding wheel. The saw generally has a built-in vise or other clamping arrangement, and has the cutting wheel and motor mounted on a pivoting arm attached to a fixed base plate.

Risks

  • Inhalation
  • Eye Injury
  • Trauma (Impact & Cutting)
  • Hand/Foot Injury
  • Fire
  • Electrical Shock

Before starting to cut with a blade, carefully look that it’s not damaged. Damaged blades can break during cutting, ejecting hot steel pieces. Check that the blade isn’t missing segments, that it isn’t cracked, and that it doesn’t appear to have been overheated. One way to tell if a blade is cracked is to bang it with a piece of wood to see if it rings. Inspect the blade regularly to guarantee it remains in good condition.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Before using your cut-off saw, make a quick inspection.

  • Check the machine for loose or missing fasteners.
  • Make sure to replace and/or tighten all screws and bolts.
  • Check the throttle trigger, trigger interlock, and stop switch to make sure they are functioning properly.
  • Inspect the wheel guard to make sure it is properly mounter and doesn’t have any cracks or other damage.
  • Never alter your cutoff machine’s blade guard.
  • Inspect the wheel that you are using.
  • Make sure it is the proper wheel for the work you are doing.
  • Look for: missing segments, cracks in the blade’s core, water saturation of abrasive wheels.
  • Make sure that your blade flanges are in good condition, and make sure the blade is properly mounted on the saw.
  • Make sure that your belt has been properly tensioned.

While Operating:

  • Hold the cut-off machine firmly with both hands.
  • Maintain good balance and stable footing.
  • Do not stand directly behind the plane of the blade.
  • Allow the blade to do the grinding, do not force the blade into the material.
  • Do not attempt to change the direction of the cut while the blade is in the cut, this can cause the blade to pinch and kick back.
  • Avoid cutting with the upper quadrant of the blade, this will result in higher chance of kickback.
  • Do not cut above your head.

WARNING

Never cut any material containing asbestos without using a respirator specifically approved for that purpose.

  • Some materials throw off dangerous sparks when cut. You should wear non-flammable clothing free of fuel, oil, or grease under these conditions.
  • Check the saw for broken, loose, or damaged parts. Repair or replace before using.
  • Use only cutting wheels approved by the manufacturer. Unapproved, cracked, or warped wheels may shatter or break, exposing the operator to serious injury or death.
  • Adjust the wheel guard to deflect sparks, dust, and material away from the operator and flammable materials.
  • Be sure the wheel does not turn while the engine is idling. Adjust the carburetor if necessary.
  • Fuel the engine in a well-ventilated outdoor area. Engine must be shut off and cool. Do not smoke while fueling and wipe off spilled fuel immediately.

AFTER USING THE SAW:

  • Remove the cutting wheel when transporting the saw.
  • Secure the saw to prevent fuel spillage and damage to the unit.
  • Store the saw, with cutting wheel removed, safely away from children.

THE DON’T’S

  1. Don’t allow bystanders to stand in the work area while using a cut-off saw.
  2. Don’t cut in the vicinity of anything that is flammable. Most cutting produces sparks.
  3. Don’t operate the cut-off saw without the wheel guard in place.
  4. Don’t exceed the maximum operating speed marked on the wheel.
  5. Don’t cock, jam or wedge the wheel into a cut.
  6. Don’t grind on the side of the wheel.
  7. Don’t operate a cut-off saw that is damaged, improperly adjusted or improperly assembled.
  8. Don’t use water on a dry cutting wheel, or sprinkle the blade periodically with water. (Sudden temperature changes will weaken the wheel)
  9. Never cut with the top or front of the blade
  10. Never cut above shoulder height.
  11. Make sure you can contact people in the event of an incident.

FINAL WORD

Do not underestimate the power and potential damage powered tools and machines can wreck on people by respecting the power, much work, progress and positive results will occur.