OPERATING
18 – English
Reactive force
A reactive force is always present when cutting. The force
pulls the machine in the opposite direction to the blade
rotation. Most of the time this force is insignificant. If the
blade is pinched or stalled the reactive force will be strong
and you might not be able to control the power cutter.
Never move the machine when the cutting equipment is
rotating. Gyroscopic forces can obstruct the intended
movement.
Kickback zone
Never use the kickback zone of the blade
for cutting
. If
the blade is pinched or stalled in the kickback zone, the
reactive force will push the power cutter up and back
towards the user in a rotating motion causing serious or
even fatal injury.
Climbing kickback
If the kickback zone is used for cutting the reactive force
drives the blade to climb up in the cut. Do not use the
kickback zone. Use the lower quadrant of the blade to
avoid climbing kickback.
Pinching kickback
Pinching is when the cut closes and pinches the blade. If
the blade is pinched or stalled the reactive force will be
strong and you might not be able to control the power
cutter.
If the blade is pinched or stalled in the kickback zone, the
reactive force will push the power cutter up and back
towards the user in a rotating motion causing serious or
even fatal injury. Be alert for potential movement of the
work piece. If the work piece is not properly supported
and shifts as you cut, it might pinch the blade and cause
a kick back.
Pipe cutting
Special care should be taken when cutting in pipes. If the
pipe is not properly supported and the cut kept open
through out the cutting, the blade might be pinched in the
kickback zone and cause a severe kickback. Be
especially alert when cutting a pipe with a belled end or a
pipe in a trench that, if not properly supported, may sag
and pinch the blade.
Before starting the cut the pipe must be secure so it does
not move or roll during cutting.
If the pipe is allowed to sag and close the cut, the blade
will be pinched in the kick back zone and a severe kick
back might develop. If the pipe is properly supported the
end of the pipe will move downward, the cut will open and
no pinching will occur.