Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What is a table saw?
A mechanical saw used to cut wood in an accurate manner by pushing wood across a table and against a circular saw blade.
What are the components of a table saw?
A power switch, the saw blade, the blade guard, the blade-height hand-wheel, the rip fence, the splitter, the throat plate, and the miter gauge.
What are some safety guidelines for using a table saw?
Use appropriate PPE, such as safety glasses and ear protection; properly adjust blade guard and splitter; unplug the saw before maintaining the blade; avoid distractions while operating; plan before you cut; don't wear loose clothes or gloves; don't cut used lumber; don't use a dull blade.
What's the most important thing to do before inspecting, removing, or installing a blade?
Unplugging or locking out the saw so it can't be turned on
What does the splitter do?
It is a wedge-like device that keeps the already-cut portion of the board separate. This prevents kickbacks, which can harm the operator.
How does one set the width of a rip cut?
By moving the rip fence so that the distance between the side of the blade nearest the rip fence and the side of the rip fence nearest the blade is the desired cut length.