TPT July 2013

Technology News

Proper care of circular saws THERE are some fundamental

to clean blades properly so as not to do potentially serious damage in the process. Forrest offers the Blade Kleen kit, which includes a brush, a spray bottle and an ammonia-based fluid – the same industrial-strength mixture that the company uses in-house. The company also offers a concentrated, all-purpose pitch and gum remover called Super Brite, which is supplied with a convenient spray applicator. Forrest Manufacturing continues to provide in-factory sharpening and repairs of all makes of carbide-tipped circular saw blade. The company’s two- step process uses automated, high- speed diamond-grit machines with flood cooling. The front of the tip is sharpened by face grinding, and then the top cutting edge is fine-finished. Forrest Manufacturing Company – USA Fax: +1 973 471 3333 Website: www.forrestblades.com

blades should never be rested on steel or cement surfaces, because metal on metal or metal on cement can dull the blade by chipping the top grind (the high point of the tooth). Instead, set the blade down on plywood or plastic. It is also advisable to avoid excessive moisture or humidity, otherwise the blades may rust and/or pit. This can require re- straightening and re-polishing. Forrest’s Blade Runner carrying case can prevent damage during storage or transit. It is made of high-impact plastic and can accommodate up to ten 10" blades, five on each side. The Blade Runner also has a locking steel arbor hold to keep blades securely in place, and a convenient carrying handle. The case is self-supporting and will stand on any level surface. Keeping circular saw blades clean can play an important role in maintaining good performance. Removing grime can help produce a better cut and make the need for sharpening less frequent. However, great care must be taken

safeguards that need to be taken to preserve the life and cutting quality of circular saw blades. Jay Forrest, vice president of Forrest Manufacturing Company, states, “It takes only a little extra time, effort, and forethought to prevent unnecessary damage and help maximise the effectiveness and longevity of a blade.” An important safeguard in protecting blades is to always use the proper type of shipping container. Mr Forrest explains, “If, for example, you are sending two or more blades to us for sharpening or repair, be sure not to pack them in a way that lets the blades rub against one another, or you are likely to get chipping. It’s the same principle as when you are packing dishes. You carefully wrap each dish individually and use bubble pack or other appropriate materials. Otherwise, you will probably have breakage. In the case of saw blades, it’s the tips that tend to break off.” Mr Forrest warns that circular saw

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J uly 2013