Circular saw blades are essential for cutting through different materials, including steel. However, using a circular saw blade for steel cutting requires proper handling and maintenance to avoid potential issues. This guide will discuss some tips for troubleshooting steel-cutting circular saw blade issues to help you determine what damaged your blade.
Common Types of Circular Saw Blade Cutting Issues
All tools can encounter issues due to extended usage or misuse, and these issues can hinder workflow. Having an in-depth understanding of your saw blade makes it easier to identify and address any issues that may arise during cutting. Likewise, you can prevent a repeat incident by realizing why your blade broke.
Some of the most common saw blade cutting issues include:
- Rough cuts
- Broken teeth
- Tooth stripping
- Cracks along the blade
- Wearing on the back edge of the blade
To assist you in caring for your blades, we’ve explained each of these issues as well as how to solve the problem.
Rough Cuts
If you notice that your steel-cutting circular saw blade is producing rough or jagged cuts, the issue could be due to a few factors. Using a blade with the wrong tooth count or dull blade teeth are common culprits of rough cuts. Moreover, if the blade tension is off, the blade can vibrate and create uneven cuts.
Preventing This Issue
Sharpen the blade’s teeth regularly and ensure you're using a blade with the correct tooth count for steel cutting. Additionally, checking and adjusting the blade tension can help improve cut quality. When in doubt about which blade you should use, consult the saw blade manufacturer; they’ll have the precise details you need.
Pro Tip
Cold Saw Shop sells numerous cold blades, and we’re always happy to answer our customers’ questions and provide more information on our products.
Broken Teeth
Saw teeth can break off due to improper use, hitting a foreign object while cutting, or the blade becoming too dull and struggling through the material.
Broken teeth are problematic because they damage the material, affect precision, and throw off balance. If you notice broken teeth on your blade, it's essential to address the issue immediately by replacing it.
Preventing This Issue
You can prevent teeth from breaking by using the right blade based on the cutting task and material. Regularly clean your blade and remove any metal chips or debris that may have accumulated during cutting.
Tooth Stripping
Tooth stripping occurs when the blade's teeth get stripped down, resulting in uneven and jagged cuts. One of the main causes of tooth stripping is using excessive force or trying to cut through materials that are too thick for the blade. Operators may also strip the teeth if they use the wrong type of coolant, feed the material too fast, or use the wrong cutting technique.
Preventing This Issue
To avoid tooth striping, ensure you're using sharp blades and following proper cutting techniques. Use a coolant designed for steel cutting and gradually feed the material through at an appropriate speed.
Cracks on the Side of the Blade
Cracks or deformities along the side of the blade cause concern, as they can lead to vibrations and poor cuts. If not addressed, these cracks may also grow and eventually lead to the blade breaking, which can create safety hazards for operators.
Preventing This Issue
Avoid this issue by first understanding the root cause of side loading. The problem is often caused by cutting materials that are too hard or dense for the blade. Your blade may also crack on the sides if the guides are too tight. Taking care not to cut materials that are unsuitable for your blade will prevent the likelihood of cracks forming.
Wearing on the Back Edge
If you notice that the back edge of your saw blade's teeth wear down faster than the front, this could be a sign of incorrect cutting techniques. Pushing too hard or using excessive force can cause this issue and may also lead to overheating and warping of the blade.
Preventing This Issue
To avoid this problem, use proper cutting techniques and avoid putting too much pressure on the blade. Let the saw do the work and guide it through the cut without forcing it.
Tips for Maintaining Your Circle Saw Blades
When it comes to troubleshooting steel-cutting circular saw blade issues, you should also know how to care for your tool to reduce the risk of damage. Preventing steel-cutting circular saw blade issues is the best way to ensure smooth operations and high-quality results. Taking care of your blades and following these tips can prevent future problems:
- Choose the right blade for the job
- Properly store blades
- Take care of your tool
- Use lubricants as needed
The more you care for your blades, the longer they will last and perform at their best. Remember to regularly examine and maintain your saw to ensure it's in optimal condition.
Use the Right Blade
High-speed steel and carbide-tipped blades are the most common blades used for metal cutting, but the exact blade you need to use depends on the material you work with. Before buying a blade, read the product description to determine the type of material it can cut. Keep in mind that not all blades designed for cutting steel can cut stainless steel.
Pro Tip
If you work with ferrous and non-ferrous metals, keep these blades in separate locations to avoid mixing them up.
Prioritize Proper Blade Storage and Handling
Properly storing your circular saw blades is more than just a good habit; it’s a necessity. Keep blades away from moisture and heavy vibrations. Ensure they're completely dry before stowing them to avoid pitting and other forms of corrosion.
Handle your blades with the respect they deserve. Use the dull side of a piece of wood to tap out metal chips; never use your bare hands, as your skin’s oils can cause corrosion.
Regularly Clean It
A blade's life is a series of cycles—cutting, cooling, clearing, and cutting again. Each cycle maintains the blade's integrity. Always clean your blades after work, remove any built-up residues, and set them to rest, as proud and gleaming as when you first took them out of the package.
Use Lubricant
Depending on the type of blade and material, you may need to use lubricant. Review your blade’s usage requirements in the product description or manual to determine whether you need lubricant and the type that is best suited to your blade.
Shop for Quality Circular Saw Blades
Cold Saw Shop offers a wide range of high-quality circular saw blades for metal cutting. Check out our collections of saw blades for steel cutting designed for professionals in the metal fabrication industry. Our circle saw blades provide precision, durability, and superior performance. Shop now and take your metal fabrication game to the next level!
