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6. Metal Cutting
Be sure to use the proper blade for the metal you are cutting. Use a finer blade when cutting
ferrous metals (metals with high iron content) and use a coarser blade when cutting non-ferrous
metals (metals with no iron content). When cutting metal, it is also recommended to use a lubricant
on the blade such as spindle oil or soapy water to keep the blade cool and extend its life. Use a
high speed setting on the saw when cutting soft metals (aluminum, copper, brass, mild steel,
galvanized pipe, etc.) and use a low speed setting to cut hard metals, cast iron, plastics, tile, and
Formica
®
. When cutting thin sheet metal, it is advised to clamp wood or plywood to the bottom of
the sheet metal to insure a clean cut and prevent to sheet metal from vibrating or tearing.
7. Blade Selection
Be certain to use the appropriate blade for the material you are cutting and make a test cut first in
scrap material.
•
Most jigsaw blades have teeth that point upwards. This tooth configuration produces a clean
cut on the bottom of the material. Also, blades with upward pointing teeth help pull the saw
through the material and reduce vibration.
•
Some blades have downward pointing teeth known as reverse-tooth blades. These blades
produce a clean cut on the top of the material and are useful in applications such as a sink
cutout in a countertop that is already installed. Remember: When using a reverse tooth blade
you must maintain constant downward pressure on the saw as the teeth will not help pull the
saw through the material.
•
Some jigsaw blades have teeth that point straight out. These blades provide a splinter free cut
on both sides of the material. Downward pressure must also be consistently applied when
using these blades.
Quark Doc 1 12/7/04 12:19 PM Page 16
