Free Cut (Blade to Sliding Table)

The sliding table does not run exactly parallel to the saw blade. It runs away from the back teeth by a fraction of a millimeter. This is called "free cut."

A very slight amount of free cut is desirable to avoid the problems of back cutting due to saw blade flutter. All saw blades vibrate to some extent. They flutter less at the front, where the cutting teeth are held stable by the material, than at the back.

If the table were set absolutely parallel to the saw blade, the back teeth could contact the material and spoil the clean cut achieved by the front teeth. As the back teeth are ascending, they could cause chip out on the top surface of laminated boards.

The free cut required is less than .05 mm over one meter of travel.

A dial indicator is not required. You can use your ears to compare the noise of the front teeth with that of the back teeth. To do this will require a workpiece shorter than the distance between front and back teeth. The saw blade should be raised to its maximum height to achieve the most contrast.

1.Lay the workpiece against the crosscut fence and make a cut.

2.Hold the workpiece firmly after the front teeth have cut and push it on past the back teeth. As you pass the back teeth you should feel rather than hear a slight tingling or whisper. If there is no sound from the back teeth, you probably have too much ("positive") free cut. If the noise from the back teeth is similar to that of the front teeth, there is too little ("negative") free cut and the table is running in towards the back of the blade.

3.Having passed the back teeth, stop level with the riving knife and cut backwards. The back teeth will make a noise as they are now cutting the material.

The workpiece must be held down firmly when making this backward cut.

4.As you continue past the front teeth, the noise from the front teeth should be equal to or slightly less than the noise from the back teeth. Slight back cutting on the backstroke equals slight free cut on the forward stroke.

5.If the front teeth make more noise than the back, the free cut is positive; if they make no noise, the free cut is negative. If the noise relationship front teeth to back teeth on the

forward stroke is the same as the noise relationship back teeth to front teeth on the back stroke (on a scale of 100, 100/30 in each case), the sliding table is running exactly parallel to the blade (zero free cut).

To correct the free cut, one end of the sliding table must be moved outward or inward. It doesn't matter whether you move the left or the right end. The only consideration is that there is enough clearance between the sliding table and the fixed cast iron table at the end you are moving.

1.At the end you have decided to move, loosen the hex nut (A, Figure 38) holding the sliding table to the frame.

Figure 38

2.Loosen the other two hex nuts in the middle of the sliding table so that the table will pivot at the remaining fixed end.

3.Move the table end in or out as needed then retighten the table mounting nuts.

4.Check again to confirm the free cut is satisfactory. Repeat the process if needed.

NOTE: The sliding table should be approximately 0.3 mm higher than the fixed cast iron table (thickness of a piece of paper). This is pre-set at the factory, but if adjustment should ever be needed, use the four height adjustment bolts (Figure 38) on each end of the table.

Trouble-shooting Free Cut (Blade to Sliding Table):

Symptoms of positive free cut:

Back cutting on rip fence side. Workpiece on cast iron table pulled into back of sawblade.

Chip out on top.

Machine cutting out of square. Workpiece moves slightly on sliding table due to pressure of saw blade, without operator noticing.

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Powermatic HPS67 operating instructions Free Cut Blade to Sliding Table, Symptoms of positive free cut
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HPS67 specifications

The Powermatic HPS67 is an innovative and powerful hybrid table saw that epitomizes precision woodworking. Designed for serious woodworkers and professionals, the HPS67 integrates advanced technologies and features that elevate its performance and usability in the workshop.

At the heart of the HPS67 lies its robust motor, offering a remarkable power output that facilitates seamless cutting through a variety of materials, including hardwoods and composite materials. The saw’s rip capacity is impressive, allowing users to cut wide panels with ease and precision. Its well-engineered design supports both rip cuts and crosscuts, making it versatile for different woodworking projects.

One of the standout features of the Powermatic HPS67 is its advanced dust collection system. The saw is equipped with an efficient dust port that captures debris during cutting, ensuring a clean workspace and promoting a healthier environment for users. This system reduces the overall cleanup time and increases visibility while working.

The HPS67 incorporates an innovative digital display that provides real-time feedback on blade height and angle adjustments. This feature allows for precise settings, ensuring that users can achieve the exact cuts they desire consistently. The easy-to-read display enhances the overall user experience, making it simpler to make quick adjustments on the fly.

Furthermore, the HPS67 boasts a large, sturdy table surface that offers ample support for large sheets of wood. The tabletop is made from high-quality cast iron, known for its durability and stability. This material minimizes vibrations during operation, thus contributing to the saw's accuracy.

Safety is paramount with the Powermatic HPS67, which features a comprehensive set of safety guards and notifications. The blade guard is designed for easy removal and replacement, ensuring that operators can maintain safety without hindrance to workflow. Additionally, the built-in safety features minimize the risk of accidents, providing peace of mind for woodworkers.

In summary, the Powermatic HPS67 is a sophisticated hybrid table saw that combines power, precision, and safety. Its exceptional features, advanced technologies, and user-focused design make it an invaluable addition to any woodworking shop. Whether for professional use or serious hobbyists, the HPS67 empowers users to take on a variety of woodworking projects with confidence and efficiency.
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