Crosscutting
Repetitive Crosscutting
Repetitive crosscutting is the repeated and continuous cutting of many pieces of lumber to the same length. Carriage and length stops can help make this type of crosscutting more efficient.
A carriage stop defines the distance needed to pull the blade through to complete each cut. This will prevent pulling the blade through more than the recommended dis- tance.
To make a carriage stop use 1x2 lumber:
a)cut two pieces, each 2" long
b)clamp a piece on each side of radial arm, so blade carriage stops at distance needed to complete cut
c)check that clamps do not interfere with hand grip on saw handle.
A length stop defines the cut length and ensures that all pieces will be cut to the same size. Clamp a piece of 1x2 lumber on the fence to define the cut length.
Keep hand holding down workpiece at least 8" from blade.
Crosscutting Hints
1.To extend life of table top, make auxiliary table cover out of 1/4" plywood or fiberboard. Clamp or nail to original table top, section by section. If you use nails, nail in the four cor- ners to make sure blade will not contact nails.
2.Make several fences, so each will have only a few kerfs (See Cutting Aides). Too many kerfs will weaken a fence.
3.Keep table clean of chips and sawdust.
4.Use sharp blades, and use the right blade for each job.
Carriage
Stop
Length
Stop
5.When making miter or bevel cuts, use extra force to hold workpiece down because it tends to move during these types of cuts.
6.When cutting hard woods, like oak, or making compound cuts, keep arm holding saw handle rigid and pull blade through slowly.
7.To keep cut line accurate, periodically check blade alignment.
8.Do not cut severely warped, bowed or twisted workpieces.
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