Cutting tools such as slitting saw are used to make accurate cuts in a various materials. These saws are made especially to cut thin, flat materials like sheet metal, plastic, and wood.
Cutting sheet metal for HVAC ducting, creating custom pieces, and cutting thick planks into thinner planks are just a few of the common uses for these essential tools in any metalworking or woodworking business.
What is a Slitting Saw?
Slitting saws are circular blades designed to cut parallel to their axis. Typically constructed from high-speed steel or carbide, they come in a range of thicknesses and diameters. These blades are compatible with various machines, including milling machines, drill presses, and dedicated slitting saw machines, and are typically mounted on an arbor or spindle.
How do slitting saws work?
Due to the high-speed rotation, slitting saws can cut material as the blade moves along the material. Typically, the arbor on which the saw blade is mounted is housed inside the machine and secured by a set of bearings. As the arbor rotates, the saw blade cuts the material cleanly and precisely.
Types of Slitting Saws
There is a wide range of slitting saws available on the market, each designed with specific features to suit particular applications.
HSS Slitting Saw
High-speed steel (HSS) slitting saws are among the most widely used due to their durability and versatility. They use a high-speed steel alloy, which is incredibly flexible and heat-resistant. Steel, aluminum, and plastic are just some of the materials that HSS slitting saws specialize in cutting.
Carbide Tipped Slitting Saw
Another common type of slitting saw is carbide-tipped. These are manufactured by brazing a small piece of carbide onto the edge of a steel saw blade. Compared to high-speed steel, carbide is a much harder material that retains its sharp edge over time. Therefore, carbide-tipped slitting saws are best for cutting materials that are very hard, such stainless steel and titanium.
Inserted Tooth Slitting Saw
The insert-tooth slitting saw is another kind of carbide-tipped saw. Instead of brazing pieces of carbide onto the edge of the blade, these saws use multiple carbide inserts that are held in place with small set screws.
How to Use a Slitting Saw
Slitting saws are fairly easy to use, although they do require some expertise and attention to precision. Make sure the blade is firmly fastened to the arbor before starting any cutting. Then, position the material in front of the saw blade and clamp it firmly in place.
When you are ready to cut, turn on the machine and let the saw blade run at full speed. Keep your hands and other body parts away from the saw blade as you slowly insert it into the material and start cutting. After cutting, turn off the machine and carefully remove the cut part from the machine.
It is essential to wear proper safety equipment, such as gloves, hearing protection devices, and safety glasses or a face shield, when using a slitting saw. To achieve precise and smooth cuts, regularly clean and maintain both the saw blade and the machine.
Conclusion
Slitting saws are a multipurpose and essential tool for any metal or woodworking job. These saws are available in many sizes and varieties, and they can be used to precisely cut a wide variety of materials. If you are aware of the different types of slitting saws and know how to use them correctly, you can handle any project that comes your way.
