When it comes to using saw blades, you may have heard of a process known as hammering. But why exactly do you hammer a saw blade? In this article, we will dive into the reasons behind this technique and how it can benefit your sawing projects.
What is Hammering?
Hammering a saw blade involves reshaping the blade’s teeth to optimize its performance. This technique can be done by hand or by using a specialized hammering machine. The process involves flattening the tops of the saw blade’s teeth while also angling the tips slightly to create a sharp cutting edge.
Why Do You Hammer a Saw Blade?
The primary reason for hammering a saw blade is to increase its cutting efficiency. By reshaping the teeth, the blade is better suited for cutting through tough materials such as hardwoods, metal, and plastics. Additionally, the angled tips of the teeth allow for smoother and more precise cuts.
Hammering a saw blade can also help prolong its lifespan. Over time, saw blades can become dull or damaged due to regular use. Hammering can restore the blade’s sharpness, making it more effective and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Types of Saw Blades That Benefit from Hammering
While not all saw blades require hammering, certain types are more suited for this technique. These include:
- Circular saw blades
- Bandsaw blades
- Jigsaw blades
- Hand saw blades
If you use any of these types of saw blades regularly, hammering can greatly improve their performance and longevity.
How to Hammer a Saw Blade
If you’re interested in hammering your saw blade, there are a few steps you can follow to do it properly:
- Choose the right hammering machine or tool. There are various types of hammering machines available, each suited for different types of saw blades. Make sure you choose one that’s suitable for your blade.
- Clean the saw blade thoroughly. Before hammering, make sure your saw blade is free from any dirt, debris, or rust. You can use a wire brush or sandpaper to clean it.
- Secure the blade. Use clamps or a vise to hold the saw blade in place while hammering. This will help prevent any accidental injuries.
- Hammer the blade. Follow the instructions provided with your hammering machine or tool. Generally, you’ll need to apply pressure to the blade’s teeth with the hammering tool, flattening them and angling the tips slightly.
- Check the blade’s sharpness. After hammering, check the blade’s sharpness by running your finger along the teeth. If they feel smooth and even, the blade is ready to use.
Conclusion
Hammering a saw blade can greatly enhance its performance and longevity. By reshaping the teeth, you can improve the blade’s cutting efficiency, making it better suited for tough materials. Whether you’re a professional woodworker, metalworker, or DIY enthusiast, hammering your saw blades can be a useful technique to learn.
You may also like: Can I Use A Circular Saw Instead Of A Miter Saw?
Frequently Asked Questions About Hammering a Saw Blade
1. What is the purpose of hammering a saw blade?
Hammering a saw blade is done to flatten out any warping or bending that may have occurred during use. This helps to ensure that the blade cuts straight and true, which is important for achieving accurate cuts.
2. Can any saw blade be hammered?
Not all saw blades can be hammered. Only saw blades that are made of high-quality steel and have been properly heat-treated can be hammered without damaging the blade. It is important to check with the manufacturer’s recommendations before attempting to hammer a saw blade.
3. How do you know when it’s time to hammer a saw blade?
One sign that it’s time to hammer a saw blade is when you notice that the blade is not cutting straight or is leaving rough edges on your cuts. You may also notice that the blade is vibrating or making more noise than usual. It’s a good idea to inspect your saw blade regularly and look for signs of wear and tear that may indicate that it needs to be hammered.
4. Can hammering a saw blade be done at home or should it be done by a professional?
Hammering a saw blade can be done at home, but it is important to follow the proper techniques and use the right tools. It is also important to have some experience with sharpening and maintaining saw blades. If you are unsure about how to hammer a saw blade, it is best to seek out the advice of a professional.