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6. Metal Cutting
Be sure to use the proper blade for the metal you are cutting. Use a finer blade when cutting ferrous metals (metals with high iron content) and use a coarser blade when cutting non-ferrous metals (metals with no iron content). When cutting metal, it is also recommended to use a lubricant on the blade such as spindle oil or soapy water to keep the blade cool and extend its life. Use a high speed setting on the saw when cutting soft metals (aluminum, copper, brass, mild steel, galvanized pipe, etc.) and use a low speed setting to cut hard metals, cast iron, plastics, tile, and Formica®. When cutting thin sheet metal, it is advised to clamp wood or plywood to the bottom of the sheet metal to insure a clean cut and prevent to sheet metal from vibrating or tearing.
7. Blade Selection
Be certain to use the appropriate blade for the material you are cutting and make a test cut first in scrap material.
•Most jigsaw blades have teeth that point upwards. This tooth configuration produces a clean cut on the bottom of the material. Also, blades with upward pointing teeth help pull the saw through the material and reduce vibration.
•Some blades have downward pointing teeth known as reverse-tooth blades. These blades produce a clean cut on the top of the material and are useful in applications such as a sink cutout in a countertop that is already installed. Remember: When using a reverse tooth blade you must maintain constant downward pressure on the saw as the teeth will not help pull the saw through the material.
•Some jigsaw blades have teeth that point straight out. These blades provide a splinter free cut on both sides of the material. Downward pressure must also be consistently applied when using these blades.
