Table saws are powerful tools that are essential for many woodworking projects. They allow for precise cuts and can make quick work of even the toughest materials. However, there are certain safety precautions that must be taken when working with a table saw. One of the most important safety rules is to never use certain parts of the table saw together. In this article, we will discuss what two parts of the table saw should never be used together.
The Blade Guard and the Fence
The two parts of the table saw that should never be used together are the blade guard and the fence. The blade guard is a safety feature that is designed to protect the user from the spinning saw blade. It is a plastic or metal shield that covers the blade and prevents the user from accidentally coming into contact with it. The fence, on the other hand, is a guide that is used to keep the workpiece in place while it is being cut. It is a long metal bar that runs parallel to the blade and can be adjusted to different widths depending on the size of the workpiece.
The reason why the blade guard and the fence should never be used together is that they can create a dangerous situation known as kickback. Kickback occurs when the saw blade catches the workpiece and throws it back towards the user at high speeds. This can cause serious injury or even death.
When the blade guard and fence are used together, the workpiece can become trapped between them. This can cause the blade to bind and kickback. The blade guard can also become caught on the workpiece, causing it to lift up and into the blade. This can also result in kickback.
Proper Use of the Blade Guard and Fence
While the blade guard and fence should never be used together, they are both important safety features that should be used properly. The blade guard should always be in place when the saw is in use. It should be adjusted so that it is as close to the workpiece as possible without touching it. This will provide maximum protection while still allowing for a clear view of the blade and workpiece.
The fence should also be used properly. It should be adjusted so that it is parallel to the blade and as close to the workpiece as possible without touching it. This will ensure that the workpiece stays in place during the cut and will prevent it from moving towards the blade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the blade guard and fence should never be used together when using a table saw. This can cause kickback, which can result in serious injury or death. While both of these safety features are important, they should be used separately and properly. The blade guard should always be in place and adjusted properly, and the fence should be used to guide the workpiece without trapping it between the fence and the blade guard.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two parts of the table saw that should never be used together?
The two parts of the table saw that should never be used together are the fence and the miter gauge.
Why should the fence and miter gauge never be used together?
Using the fence and miter gauge together can cause the wood to become trapped between the blade and the fence, resulting in a dangerous kickback.
What is kickback?
Kickback is a dangerous event that occurs when the wood being cut gets caught in the blade and is thrown back towards the operator, potentially causing serious injury.
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