What is the difference between a circular saw and a circular saw

mitre saw

Trimming saw is a variation of circular or circular saw. Used for angular and compound cuts in various angles. It differs from the above models in that it is fixed in the base, which in turn is connected to the working table. In doing so, the blade can move up and down, maintaining the angle at which the cut will be made. The saw can be tilted using the lever.

During this cutting the blade can be rotated in different planes, and by means of guides on work table the blade is moved without deviating from set parameters. These features make the saw popular and in demand for the implementation of repair work, it can cut not only wood tiles, metal profile.In addition, there are combined mitre saws, where the cutting disk is capable of a few movements rotated 180 degrees, and you can get a full-fledged circular saw. The ability of the disc to rotate allows you to work with more complex workpieces.

Types of circular saws

Today the domestic market of construction tools offers the consumer the widest range of equipment for sawing materials of the most diverse materials. Classify them by performance, purpose, type of power circular saws. Let’s consider the varieties of this tool in more detail.

Hand-held circular saw

This is quite compact and powerful tool, which is successfully used by home masters and professional builders for a wide range of tasks. Operator moves saw relative to fixed workpiece to make cut.

Depending on the design and cutting tool, manual models can be:

The first ones are designed for longitudinal and cross cutting of wood, cutting of sheet wood products. Can work with three types of cutting discs: toothed, carbide-tipped, with variable tooth and reduced thickness kerf, universal multipurpose discs.

Manual metal “circulators” are designed for cutting of steel sheets, profiles, pipes, non-ferrous metals. Can be used with serrated and abrasive discs. The basic set is equipped with a toothed multi-purpose cutting tool.

Before you choose a suitable manual circular saw, you should decide what type of tool you need:

  • Domestic saws are inexpensive and easy to use. Such models are characterized by relatively low power and minimal functionality;
  • Semi-professional models are versatile enough to be used for most complex jobs and household tasks. Equipped with sufficiently powerful propulsion system, but do not have the functionality inherent in professional equipment;
  • Professional tool is characterized by high power, endurance and functionality.
  • Ease of use thanks to the comparatively low weight and compact size of the device;
  • High performance;
  • Optimal price performance ratio.

Stationary circular saw

The main difference between stationary models is that for cutting the operator must move the material relative to the rotating cutting disc.

The design of the stationary circular saw includes the following mandatory elements:

  • Steel base frame. Depending on the application, it can be of a prefabricated or cast iron construction;
  • Electric motor;
  • A system for adjusting the depth and position of the kerf;
  • Safety guard;
  • Controls.

The main advantages of the stationary “circular saws”:

  • Low vibration level;
  • The ability to cut wide workpieces;
  • Variability in settings;
  • Possibility to connect the dust bag.

The disadvantage is considered a large weight and size of the device.

Table circular saw

These models are reduced versions of stationary “circular saws”. Can be used for most domestic jobs related to sawing wood and its derivatives. Cutting depth does not differ from most handheld models.

Most experts point out the high vibration of the material as a disadvantage.

Submersible circular saws

The main difference between plunge-cutting models and circular saws is the principle of interaction between the cutting tool and the workpiece. In classic “circular saws” the material is pushed into the blade (or vice versa, as in manual saws): in circular saws the blade is over the base plate and is lowered by the operator onto the workpiece. Plunge mechanism allows more accurate positioning of cutting tool relative to the material, making local cuts in any place of it, creating grooves, chutes, etc.

Cordless circular saws

These compact devices are hand-held circular saws powered by a rechargeable battery. Cordless models are used on construction sites where there is no way to connect the tool to the mains. This type of saw is designed for short periods of operation, which depending on the capacity of the battery. can be from 15 to 60 minutes.

How to choose a circular saw

To choose, give yourself an answer to an important question: for what purpose are you buying the saw? If you sometimes need something to repair by your own hands, sometimes to cut something, saw something off, there is no need to buy a powerful hand circular saw with various additional functions, which you will not use.

If you are a professional, engaged in construction on contractors or have a small shop. in this case, you do not need to skimp, the price of manual circular saw does not play a big role, with a good tool it will quickly “pay off.

So pay attention to its power when buying it, because the power is tied to the size of the saw blade. power, a larger diameter disc is mounted on the saw, because the motor runs more stable and gives the necessary RPM of the shaft on which the disc is mounted. In addition, the more power of the tool, the more time it can work without the threat of overheating.

In addition to power, when buying, you need to pay attention to the saw blade and mounts. These parts must be massive.

Usually, for rare uncomplicated tasks, circulars with power up to 0.8 KW are enough, if the work will be frequent, you have a period of rebuilding or repair. it is better to take a tool with power up to 1.4 KW.

For professional activities, it is better to choose a manual circular electric saw from 2.0 KW, which will give a guarantee and the use of large disks, the ability to saw plastic and aluminum with the appropriate saw blade, the motor will be able to work for a long period without stopping.

Also the number of rotations per minute of the blade is an important condition for the purchase. The higher the number, the easier and cleaner the material will be cut.

difference, circular

the thickness of the material to be processed depends on these dimensions. For the first, light type it will be 40. 50 mm, for the medium, the most used 50.65 mm, for professional saws up to 140 mm.

If you work with the saw constantly, professionally, having additional options will be a big plus.

    For example:

  • an adapter to which a construction vacuum cleaner is connected for the vacuuming of sawdust;
  • overload clutch to prevent you from overloading while working;
  • a device to prevent the sawdust from working in case of a disc change;
  • guides when working with the longitudinal bars, you can make them yourself;
  • electronic speed control and more, which helps in the work, protects the mechanism from premature wear and protects from injury.

In circular saws the cutting mechanism is a toothed disc. It serves for a longitudinal cut, although with additional slats it is possible to produce cross and bevel cuts at different angles. Quality of the cut is affected by the type of blade, its diameter, tooth shape and sharpening angle. teeth. slower speed, but better cutting quality. The power of circular saws ranges from one to two and a half kilowatts. Some of these tools are very difficult to work with by weight.

Trimming saw is a kind of circular or circular saw. It is used for angular and compound cuts at different angles. It differs from the above models in that it is attached to the base, which in turn is connected to the work table. The blade can move up and down while maintaining the angle at which the cut will be made. The saw can be tilted by means of a lever.

In this kind of sawing the blade can be turned in different planes, and with the help of guides on the work table the blade is fed without deviating from the set parameters. These properties make the saw popular and in demand when carrying out repair work, it can cut not only wood, but also tiles, metal profile.In addition, there are combination circular saws, where the cutting blade can rotate 180 degrees in a few movements, and a full-fledged circular saw can be obtained. Capability of the disc to rotate allows working with more complicated materials.

Circular (circular) saw is designed so as to ensure versatility, high productivity and safety. Operating mechanism is based on a general principle, which consists in transmitting the torque force from the electric motor to the circular saw’s working body to the circular saw blade.

Design of a circular saw may vary depending on the type of work it performs. The typical design, taken as the basis for any modification of the saw, has several basic functional elements:

  • platform base;
  • electric motor that transmits rotational energy to the saw blade;
  • circular saw blade;
  • Body equipped with handles for operating the saw and holding it during the sawing process;
  • A protective guard (upper and lower) that protects the saw blade from wood shavings entering the working mechanism;
  • attachment for longitudinal stop;
  • riving knife.

The design of the circular saw can also be supplemented with a depth gauge with a scale that allows you to estimate the depth of penetration of the saw blade into the wood or other material.

For convenience, some saws have a movable motor mount to the base, which allows you to adjust the angle with a locking screw and scale.

Depth of cut at 90° angle is 45-70 mm on average. and at 45° from 28 to 48 mm.

Types of circular saws

The structure of the circular saw depends on its variety. There are a total of 4 different varieties of circular saws:

Manual devices consist of a housing with two handles, in which an electric motor is located. The toothed circular saw blade is secured to the motor shaft. The enclosure covers the disc portion protruding from the body. The blade guard is moved by the workpiece during sawing. Once the sawing is finished, the hood is retracted by a spring.

The stationary saw has a table instead of a compact housing. The motor is secured underneath so that part of the saw blade protrudes through a slot in the table top. The saw blade can either be fitted on the motor shaft or connected to it by means of a belt drive.

How to choose between worm-drive and sidewinder circular saws

The circular plunge-cut saw has been developed to solve a problem encountered when processing workpieces with circular saws: the lack of cutting precision. It is not possible to position the circular saw with absolute precision because it is not possible to control the position of the disc in relation to the workpiece.

The circular saw does not have these disadvantages, but operates according to a slightly different principle. When not in use, the blade is completely concealed under the blade guard and above the base plate. The cutting disc is only lowered when the tool is switched on.

The plunge-cutting saw can be used to locally repair floorboards or cut an opening in a tabletop. Cutting accuracy can be adjusted to the millimeter. Depending on the model, the cutting depth at an angle of 90° ranges from 10 to 75 mm. When working with laminated material, the top layer is not deep enough into the workpiece, so that chipping is avoided.

Cordless Circular Saw. Not long ago, such devices would have seemed like nothing more than a science fiction. But time marches on, wireless technology advances. The batteries have become so powerful, the special motors so economical, and the chargers so fast, that even for such a powerful tool as a circular saw the developers managed to organize an uninterrupted power supply. Take two modern batteries and a half-hour charger. that’s it, you won’t have any energy problems. It’s even easier if your circular saw is equipped with a battery from the same manufacturer as your other tools. Power characteristics (output power, torque) of cordless circular saws are in no way inferior to similar networked machines. Well, as for mobility and ergonomics, then they are beyond any competition, and are especially loved by roofers, working at height.

Differences between handheld and stationary saws

Hand-held portable circular saws and table-mounted stationary circular saws differ in their ease of use for different types of work. One tool is preferable for some tasks and the other for others. Therefore, no single species has a clear advantage over the other.

Features of the table circular saw

Stationary circular saw is workshop equipment. It is used for large amounts of one-size-fits-all work. The presence of the table, as well as the use of various auxiliary devices in conjunction with it, allows for high precision when cutting.

The use of a stationary circular saw makes it possible to perform the following types of work

  • Cutting small panels of sheet material.
  • Cutting boards, slats, beams.
  • Quartering.
  • Make tongue and groove joints.
  • Chamfering.
  • Sawing firewood.

To be able to do this extensive amount of work on a circular table, you need a number of other applications in addition to the parallel stop. In this case, the functionality of the table depends largely on the size of its table top. If the material does not fit on it, then many kinds of work becomes excessively difficult or nearly impossible. In addition, since the workpiece must be lifted on the table for cutting, the work with large-sized lumber has to be performed by two operators.

difference, circular

Table saw can be used for cutting firewood. Saw thin tree trunks and branches into short wood chunks. For this purpose, usually buy the cheapest tool that does not support the functions of adjusting disc departure, changing its angle.

Features of a manual circular saw

The hand-held circular saw is a mobile tool. It is lightweight, so it is used on construction sites where there is a need for precise sawing.

Mobile circular saws take up little space and cost less. Thanks to the parallel stop it can be used to cut long timber lengthways. It is possible to obtain a beveled cut. In general, this tool can handle much larger workpieces than is possible with a circular table. The mobile saw can be lifted onto the roof to make beveled rafters or beams on site.

Using the kerf setting, it is possible to make a quarter cut or a long groove. However, such work is limited by the capabilities of the lateral stop. Despite many limitations in terms of precision and functionality, mobile circular saws are bestsellers. In their favor speaks the possibility of modernization. In particular, they can be installed on a homemade table, thus turning it into a full-fledged stationary machine. Having finalized the circular saw in this way, you can use it for a more precise sawing, making tongue-and-groove joints, chamfering workpieces.

Basic selection criteria

  • Outer diameter of cutting disc
  • Cutting depth
  • Power
  • Turning speed of disc
  • Electronic systems
  • Mechanical systems
  • Device ergonomics

Diameter of the cutting disc (external, not the size of the seating hole). it is no exaggeration to say that this is the main parameter of a circular saw. On the basis of it the producers have to assemble a specific model. The bigger is the disk, the more powerful is the motor to spin it up to the necessary speed, the more torque is needed to maintain this speed and avoid jamming, the more technologically advanced should be the stabilization system to avoid run-out, vibrations and noise, the heavier, dimmer and more expensive will be the saw. But on the other hand, larger tools allow you to saw more massive workpieces, material of greater thickness.

But it’s not enough to pay attention to the size of the blade. it’s even more important to have an exact idea of the maximum cutting depth. Developers almost always indicate these parameters in the data sheets, and for both perpendicular and beveled cuts. There is some conventional division:

  • Light class (40-50 mm). sheet material, “on the spot” work.
  • Medium class (50-65 mm). the most common, universal.
  • Heavy class (65-140 mm). these are massive, purely professional machines.

I would also like to note that in case of emergency, it is possible to cut a very voluminous part by making a cut from both sides (yes, in order to work properly the blade does not have to pass through the workpiece).

What else gives you the power reserve? If there is a need to compare two circulators with the same depth. then a stronger motor of one of them will provide better frequency stability, longer continuous operation time, allows you to cut denser material faster. Watts under the hood traditionally correlate with the diameter of the tool and, again conditionally, the units are enrolled in one of the three respective classes:

The speed of the disk. what does it give, except the speed itself? There are two main points. First, the faster a shaft moves, the cleaner a cut is (though, cleanliness depends more on type of a disk. number and shape of teeth). Second, high speed is the opposite of torque. Third, high speed means high temperature, and some plastics can start to melt while sawing. If frequency was the stumbling block (read “choice”), then you should compare saws with the same blade diameter. Better yet, find a model with frequency control.

Electronics on the lookout for order. Advanced circulators are packed with electronic systems up to the hilt. This is quite predictable, as this tool is powerful and dangerous. the user needs help to ensure that the mission is not impossible. If there is a financial possibility, it is not necessary to refuse from additional options, there are no unnecessary trifles for productivity and safety.

difference, circular

The system of constant spindle speed under load, known as constant electronics, is working for the benefit of the correct velocity mode. Constant speed is continuously recorded by a controller and is stabilized by automatic increase of output power in case of local speed drop (e.g. due to feed acceleration or tooling collision with the compacted zone of material). Almost no chance of jamming of the disk is reduced to zero, and the cutting quality is only improved. Obviously, it requires a certain power reserve (this is the prerogative of relatively large machines).

Another point is the adjustment of the idle speed, a preset. It is necessary for the manual selection of process parameters for materials with different physical characteristics. Not all models can boast such an option. And by the way, the ability to preset is not a prerequisite for constant electronics, the only available frequency can also be stabilized.

In order not to overload the mains when switching on the tool, because the starting currents, although in a short period of time, significantly exceed their nominal value. almost all more or less powerful circular saws have a soft start system. Tool is not accelerated immediately, avoiding jerky movements and preventing excessive shock loads on the gearbox components, the machine lives much longer.

If the operator is in a hurry to finish what has been started and does not listen to how the circular saw feels, the overload protection system will receive a signal from overheated motor windings or will react to a sharp drop in power consumption and cut off the power, keeping the expensive tool in good working order.

Electrodynamic brake sharply stops the disc after releasing the release button. Designed to protect the operator from possible injury, the workpiece from damage, and the machine from reverse shock.

Mechanical Features. If the disk is jammed the motor can fail very quickly, there is a possibility of blowback. A slip clutch is used to protect against such a mishap. The motor shaft will continue to rotate even if the disc is stationary. Don’t worry, it doesn’t trip unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Protection against accidental start-up is realized by installation of additional button in the main handle area. To energize the motor it is necessary to press it at the same time with the starter key. To do so unintentionally is probably not possible at all, especially since the “fuse” is usually recessed in the plastic. Often (with other tools) this button allows you to lock the trigger, but not here. the serrated blade must always be in control.

For ease of disc replacement, the spindle can be locked by a button or lever, in some models, literally in any position (no need to scroll to find the seizure point). If there is no lock, you have to use two wrenches at once. The nut itself can be tightened with a wrench / screwdriver, or executed in “tool-less” version. quick clamping.

The base plate of a circular saw determines a lot in its functionality. Note that this is where all mechanical adjustments and mountings for auxiliary elements are installed. Traditionally, platforms made by casting light alloys are considered to be of higher quality. They are an unmistakable indication of a professional class tool, because they retain their geometry well. But do not discount thick pressed steel plates. They are more resistant to shock loads (they do not crack from an accidental blow), have a smaller effect on the price of the product, and are also used in tools for professionals.

An important point is the adjustment of the bevel cut. Sawing at an angle is realized exactly by changing the position of the platform in relation to the whole upper part and the disk in particular. Typically, the tilt is set at different angles: Usually it can be set in different angles: 30°, 45°, but in some machines it is extended to 50-55°. This is also where the mechanism for setting the cutting depth is located. Usually this is in the form of quarter circle slots (in some cases graded) and wing/lever rods. The main advantage of quality adjustment elements is the speed, reliability and accuracy of fixing. Backlashes are extremely unwelcome guests.

Another advantage of the clever platform is the ability to set the saw in the stationary position. This is a variant of the machine without the use of a special table. This is true for all machines, but even more so for heavy and powerful ones.

For clean, straight cuts, circular saws are equipped as standard with a parallel stop, which also comes in a light alloy version. But the most precise sawing work can be achieved with a guide rail. The blade is bought separately (they often fit from other manufacturers), but the sole must have a special groove. If it is necessary to work “by hand” on the marking. it is necessary to control the line, for this purpose in front of the base plate make a special slot.

The disk saw’s must-have accessory is the spring-loaded shroud, which hides the disk completely, releasing it only when starting sawing (it needs a stop on the workpiece). The blade guard must slide easily and must always return to its original position. To prevent the disk from being squeezed from the sides by the material already cut and not to stop, a “wedge knife” is used in the design.

Ergonomics and more. The circular saw is a hand-held tool, so when choosing, special attention must be paid to the overall ergonomics of the product. It is interesting that some manufacturers even produce a tool for left-handed users, with a mirror arrangement.

The shape and positioning of the handles play a crucial role in the comfort of any circular saw. Obviously, each user will have his own requirements. The front handle, which is most often straight and perpendicular to the plane of motion of the saw blade, raises the most questions. This design is good if you work from the front, but most often the tool is driven from the side, so most craftsmen prefer the mushroom-shaped variant, which can be easily held in any position. Someone might prefer the staple design.

Give preference to models with rubberized handles, they help to hold and control the tool during cutting.

It will not be superfluous to hold several circulars in hands before buying, most likely you will learn a lot about the weighting of specific machines and their balance. If you plan to do a lot of “field work” be sure to do so.

Look at how the power cord enters the tool. Unfortunately users very often cut the power cable, so it is better if it is directed strictly to the back, and the input sleeve is as long and rigid as possible. Maximum freedom and safety with a long mains cord. 4 meters is not uncommon for professional models. Otherwise, you’ll have to wrestle with the extension arm shoe on a regular basis.

Sooner or later the circular saw has to be replaced with carbon brushes or the motor armature will be at risk. So it makes sense to “monitor” this node as well. It is good if there is a separate window for quick access to the brushes, then you do not have to disassemble the housing, or go to the service for this, if the machine is under warranty. A great option is self-disconnecting brushes: graphite wore out. the chain broke. The next nuance is the brush condition indication, this is a very useful trick for the traditional brush assembly.

They probably won’t let you test the saw under load, but if the salesman lets you, plug the saw in and run it at idle speed, listen to the noise and vibration level. Check how much airflow the tool generates. this largely determines how effectively the motor cools and how well the work area is cleaned of debris.

If you plan to work with a circular saw only occasionally, then pay attention to models of “hobby” class from well-known manufacturers. They are designed for relatively short work (15 minutes work. 15 minutes rest) for not more than 4 hours a day. That should be enough for home use, and you’ll save a decent amount of money. Ironically, domestic models often far outlive their professional counterparts, and the developers provide them with double warranty (2-3 years).

Generally speaking, make a careful prediction of the strain a circular saw will be subjected to while in your possession and use it as a guide for the saw model you are looking for.

Rules of the circular saw

The circular saw is a risky tool and operation of the machine requires some practice. Check that machinery and electrical wiring are in good condition before sawing. Check that the circular sawblade is securely mounted and that the blade guard and riving blade are fitted correctly. If necessary, also clean the working body of the saw with a brush or rough cloth.

It is necessary to remove foreign objects from the surface where the product will be processed, check the stability of the working table and grounding of the machine. Protect yourself from sparks and wood dust with suitable protective clothing and personal protective equipment.

Sawing should be done only with the product secured, holding the saw unit tight to the surface of the workpiece. After finishing your work it is important to return the guard back to its original position and to completely de-energize the power saw.

Overview of popular circular saws

Hello dear readers and subscribers of Andrew Noack’s blog. In this article I will tell you the difference between a circular saw and a circular saw.

The first thing that catches the eye during examination is the position of the saw blade. Plunge circular saw is equipped with a disk, which is located above the sole plate and protected by a guard. It can be noted that the cutting blade is positioned at a minimum distance from the edge with a spring-loaded “head”. This model is equipped with depth and angle of cut adjustment. The more expensive models have a soft starter and the ability to change the speed.

As for the principle of working with this tool, everything is painfully simple. Before starting the work the depth of cut and angle of inclination is set, if necessary. And only after these operations are complete can you get to work. We plug in, “head” unlock, the blade plunges into the workpiece to a given depth, then the saw is guided along the set trajectory. After the cut the hand pressure on the tool is released and the “head” is lifted by the spring, thereby the saw blade is removed from the material to be cut. A good plus can be noted the work of the plunge circular saw with the bar.

This design helps us to achieve maximum sawing precision when working on the tool.

You can mark the targets. They are needed to determine the position of the disc and the cutting edge, that is, it is possible to determine the limits at which the cutting element must be plunged and removed from the material to be worked in time. The marks can be divided into two sets, in which it is possible to work with or without a guide bar. In addition, we can distinguish the eccentrics. They are able to adjust the edge of the bar and the parallelism of the cutting blade.

Plunge circular saws with guide rail can even cut edges and plan workpieces. These operations can not be carried out with an ordinary circular saw. It is possible to single out the moment, when the cut can be done practically right next to the wall.

Cleanliness of the working place is achieved by the protective hood, it covers the cutting disc, thereby increasing the percentage of efficiency in the process of vacuuming.

The final conclusion, this type of saw becomes an indispensable assistant in the workshop and is able to make the work fast and convenient for you.

One of the popular saws can be called:

Submersible saws differ from simple circular saws.

Here, I got interested in buying myself another toy submersible circular saw ElitechPD1255P14 in addition to his BlackDecker, built into the table.

I’ve thought for a long time, weighed pros and cons and have decided after all, especially as the set includes a guide rail with clamps, and splinter-proof gasket and even a disk (though they just did not praise it).

What is the difference between this circular saw and the usual ones, so that I decided to buy the second one?? Let me get this straight.

The first thing that catches the eye is the position of the blade.

The circular saw blade in a circular saw is located above the base plate and completely hidden by the blade guard. The blade itself is as close to the edge as possible and the head is spring-loaded. As with conventional circular saws, it is possible to adjust the depth and angle of cut. Often such saws have adjustable rpm and soft start (more expensive models).

The working principle differs, too. No, it is clear that the motor turns the saw blade, which, in turn, saws the material. The process of the saw driving on a workpiece differs (it reminds a little of the work with a plunge-cutting mill base). Before the work is done set the depth and, if necessary, the angle of inclination of the disc. After that, we turn on the saw, unlock the head, plunge the saw blade into the workpiece to the set depth (the limiter will not allow to exceed it) and drive the tool along the mowing line (ideally, along the rail). At the end of the cut, release the pressure and the head lifts itself with the spring, removing the blade from the workpiece.

Additionally the plunge-cutting saws are specially adapted for work with a guide bar (they have special grooves on the bottom).

Sawing precision. Of course, a usual circular saw can also manage the task of sawing. First of all, the sights correspond to the exact position of the saw, and there is also a sight opposite the cutting edge. It is used to determine the limits of the saw blade (for timely plunging and removing the blade from the material). Two sets of these marks are available: for working with or without a guide bar.

Sawing precision also benefits from compatibility with guide bars. That is to say, you just have to mark a couple of points on the workpiece, set the guide bar precisely and you get a precise cut in the right place. For levelling small misalignments, eccentrics are available to adjust the parallelism of the blade to the guide bar edge.

With the guide bar it is possible to plan evenly to cut the edges of long boards, which can not be done with a standard parallel stop of a usual circular saw, although with the guide bar even homemade is quite realistic).

in addition, the saw blade can be mounted at the side of the base plate and thus be cut almost right up against the wall.

Thanks to the use of clean cutting discs and the availability of splinterguard pads and inserts, which almost all such saws are equipped with, a high clean cut is achieved. Some people report that even laminate can be cut without splintering. Of course it is hard to believe I will try to check it. I checked it ))) the splinterguard is on the guide bar and it protects from chips quite good, but only Festool saws are equipped with liners

The hood that completely covers the blade increases the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner compared to conventional saws, which has a positive effect on the cleanliness of the workplace.

In general, we can conclude that this saw is not an indispensable tool in the workplace, but it makes the work more convenient and faster. Although, as practice has shown, if you are engaged in sawing Laminated chipboard without a formatting and cutting machine, this saw is simply indispensable.

Design of the circular saw depends on the model. There are 2 basic designs of circular saws in total:

Handheld devices consist of a housing with two handles that house the electric motor. The toothed saw blade is secured to the motor shaft. The blade guard encloses the blade that protrudes from the housing. During sawing the blade guard is pushed back by the workpiece. When the sawing is finished, the guide rail is retracted by a spring.

The stationary saw has a table instead of a compact body. The motor is fastened underneath so that part of the saw blade protrudes through a slot in the tabletop. The saw blade can be positioned either on the motor shaft or connected to it by means of a belt drive.

Differences between handheld and stationary circular saws in terms of convenience and functionality

Portable hand-held and table-mounted stationary circular saws differ in their ease of use for different types of work. One tool is preferred for some tasks and another for others. That is why neither variant has a clear advantage over the other.

Features of a benchtop circular saw

A stationary circular saw is workshop equipment. It is suitable for high volume, homogeneous tasks. The table, as well as its various accessories, allows for high precision when cutting.

The use of a stationary circular saw makes it possible to perform the following types of work:

  • Cutting of small panels of sheet material.
  • Cutting boards, slats, bars.
  • Quartering.
  • Making tongue and groove joints.
  • Chamfering.
  • Saws for firewood.

To do such an extensive amount of work on the circular table requires the use in addition to the parallel stop and a number of other devices. The functionality of the table depends to a large extent on the size of its tabletop. If the material does not fit on it, many types of work become overly difficult or nearly impossible to do. Also, because the workpiece must be lifted onto the table for cutting, work on large-sized timber can be done by two operators.

A tabletop circular saw can be used to cut firewood. It is used to cut thin tree trunks and branches into short wood chunks. For this purpose you usually buy the cheapest tool that does not support the functions of adjusting the blade outreach, changing its angle.

Features of a handheld circular saw

Hand held circular saw is a mobile tool. It is lightweight, so it is used on construction sites where there is a need for precise sawing.

It can be used to:

A mobile circular saw takes up little space, costs less. The parallel stop makes it possible to saw long logs lengthwise. A beveled cut is possible. In general, such a tool can handle much larger workpieces than can be processed on a circular table. The mobile saw can be lifted up onto the roof to cut rafters or beams on site.

Using the depth of cut adjustment, it is possible to make a quartering or a long groove. However, such work is limited by the capabilities of the lateral stop. Despite many limitations in terms of precision and functionality, circular saws are bestsellers. Upgrade possibilities in their favour. In particular, they can be mounted on a homemade table, thus turning it into a full-fledged stationary machine. By upgrading the circular saw in this way, you can use it for more precise sawing, making tongue-and-groove connections, chamfering workpieces.

Technical parameters of circular saws

Different saw devices, even with similar constructional design, still differ from each other in a number of technical features. Each parameter is important, because it directly affects the ability to perform certain tasks.

Among the primary characteristics that you need to pay attention to when choosing a circular saw, we can note:

  • Circle diameter.
  • Power.
  • Adjusting cutting depth and blade tilt.
  • Soft start.
  • Number of turns.

Circular saw choice according to blade diameter

Disc is directly involved in cutting. Its diameter depends on how thick the part can be cut by a particular tool. This is critical if you plan to use it to cut thick beams or posts for fences, for example. Depth of cut of angle grinder is a little less than half the disc diameter.

Table circular saws can have a blade diameter of 400-500 mm and more. This equipment is specialized and used for cutting thick lumber, as well as for sawing logs into boards. The most popular table models are seldom equipped with discs bigger than 210 mm.

As for manual circular saws, the diameter of their saw blade is generally up to 210 mm. This tool is equipped with a heavy, powerful motor, which makes it difficult to carry and use. For example, a saw with a 335 mm disc has an average weight of 13 kg. A tool with a 165 mm saw blade, on the other hand, weighs 3.5 kg. Most of the mobile circular saws are equipped with a circular saw blade diameter of 160-190 mm, which gives the required level of maneuverability during carrying and working. A tool with these parameters can cut deep enough, but is also quite a tool to be lifted.

Choice of power

Power is one of the main criteria in choosing a tool. But a newly sharpened saw blade can cut better, even with a low-powered motor, than a powerful tool with worn out accessories. Thus, the lack of torque force can be compensated for with consumables. You need to decide beforehand. to overpay for a powerful circular saw once, or to sharpen the disks more often afterwards.

Circular saws with motors up to 800 W can be used for cutting plywood, thin laths and boards. 800-1200 watt motors are the most universal tools. It can easily cut almost any type of lumber, but is slow when cutting thick workpieces. When choosing a bench circular saw it is better to choose a motor from 2 kW. In this case it has a power reserve for all types of work. Its weight is irrelevant because the table is always standing in the workshop.

Sawing depth and blade tilt

All modern table and mobile circulators support blade reach and tilt adjustment. The most important parameter is the cutting depth. It determines how thick a workpiece can be sawn in one pass, without double-sided movement.

Conventionally, all circular saws can be divided into 3 groups:

Circular saws with cutting depths up to 40 mm are mainly suitable for cutting sheet metal. In theory it can also handle planks up to 40mm, but because it has a weak motor it cuts slowly.

The mid-range tool is the most versatile. It is the right choice for those who are going to use it for building a house, making beehives, outdoor furniture, installing a wooden fence, etc.п. Circular saws with a cutting depth of more than 65 mm are professional machines for working with beams, logs, logs, offsetting and other construction materials made of wood.

As for the angle of inclination of the disc, it can be changed arbitrarily in any index or in fixed steps of 90°, 45°, 30°. Note that the depth of cut depends on the adjusted blade angle. It is maximal at 90° angle. In most cases it is not necessary to change the inclination of the blade at all.

Soft start

Soft-start option in the circular saw enables several tasks to be solved simultaneously. First of all, it reduces the load on the wiring because of the reduced starting current. This minimizes short circuits on the mowing line and minimizes tripping of the circuit breaker in the electrical panel due to overload.

Besides, soft start minimizes jerking of the tool when the start button is pressed. That means that the circular saw, positioned for a precise cut, does not jerk when it is started and does not descend from the required trajectory.

RPM

Unlike an angle grinder, a circular saw has a much slower rotational speed of the shaft with the disc. This is justified by the fact that the disc is equipped with teeth that can break off at high speed. Maximum rotation speed of the circular saw is 5300 rpm, assuming no-load condition. This parameter is fixed for budget equipment.

Much better if the speed of the tool can be adjusted. That makes it possible to achieve a perfect cut in different materials. For example, when cutting plastic, you need to set the minimum speed, then its edges do not melt. When sawing fiberboard or hardwood, on the contrary, maximum RPM is required. Not enough of them will result in chipping.

Types and features of circular saw blades

Important characteristics that determine the performance of a circular saw blade are:

  • Number of teeth. The number of discs may vary from 10 to 90. The more teeth on the blade, the slower the cutting speed, but the cut is cleaner, more accurate, and does not need re-finishing.
  • Inner diameter of disc. This value indicates the diameter where the saw blade sits on the center of the jigsaw or the securing pin on the saw unit.
  • Outer Diameter. The larger the blade, the deeper the kerf, but the lower the blade speed. Outer diameter must not be larger than upper guard.
  • Disc thickness. Thin saw blade, thickness from 3.2 mm. used for soft wood and thin materials. if the thickness of the disc is greater than this value, it can be used with thick and coarse material. They are more robust, less prone to wear and less likely to warp.
  • Tooth angle. If the cutting edge is tilted towards the back of the blade, this angle is negative. Oppositely oriented teeth with positive inclination, which can range from 5 (standard) to 20 (aggressive) degrees. There is also a zero tilt angle. Such blades are designed for sawing metal materials.
  • Tooth shape. The concave triangular tooth is used for laminated wood. Flat chamfered teeth are used for construction wood and structural timber. Flat trapezoidal teeth. for cutting metal.

Combination models are popular because they can perform transverse and longitudinal cuts at the same time without changing the disc.

The design features of the saw blade directly influence the process, the end result and the quality of the work.