Cut-Off Saw Kickbacks occur when the blade on the saw pinches or stalls in the material you are cutting. The force of the blade causes the saw to be thrown out of the cut and, in some cases, back at the operator. Knowing how to safely use your cut-off saw you can take on the toughest cuts with confidence by avoiding kickbacks and being more productive.
1. Let Your Saw Do The Work
Applying too much pressure when cutting can cause the segments on your blade to wear faster than normal. If the width of the segments is smaller than the width of the steel core then the blade has a greater chance to pinch in the material you are cutting increasing the chance of a kickback.
2. Don't Use A Worn Out Or Broken Blade
If you notice chips, cracks, or missing segments on your blade, remove that blade from your saw immediately and dispose of it. These faults are very dangerous and can potentially lead to a kickback situation. Make sure you have the right blade for your cutting situation by following the 5 Steps When Selecting Your Diamond Blade
Top Blade: Worn Segments... Bottom Blade: New Segments
3. Properly Support The Material
The cut needs to remain open during the entire cutting process to avoid a pinch. Support both sides of the material so it does not shift and pinch or bind the wheel. Use a wedge if necessary to keep the material open. Be sure you are cutting on a level surface. If you are cutting pipe, cut 90 degrees around the pipe, roll over and repeat the process until the pipe is fully cut. When cutting in a trench, support the bottom of the pipe with bricks or wood blocks or a lanyard with a tie to an excavator or another machine to support.
Illustration from STIHL TS 410, 420 Instruction Manual, Page 13, Copyright Andreas Stihl AG
4. Have A Safe Cutting Stance And Firm Grip
Secure good footing and balance during the entire cut. Position the machine so your body is clear of cutting attachments and never stand over the material or bend over the machine. Lock your left elbow when operating. Firmly grip with both hands. Be sure your thumbs are wrapped around the handles. Always cut with two hands. Place your left hand on the front handle and right hand on the rear handle and throttle trigger. When reentering the cut, do not turn the wheel at an angle or push the wheel into the cut or a pinch could occur.
5. Cut With The Lower Quadrant Of The Blade
Always cut with the bottom (lower) quadrant of a blade because in a pinch situation the saw will pull away from you. Never cut with the top (upper) quadrant of the blade. Never adjust the wheel guard past the stop. Always introduce the cutting wheel with extreme caution into the cut, without twisting or pushing.
Illustration from STIHL TS 410, 420 Instruction Manual, Page 13, Copyright Andreas Stihl AG
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