We often hear of the dangers of power tools, but we may not clearly understand the little things that lead up to power tool accidents. All power tools are potentially dangerous given the right circumstances - or should I say wrong circumstances. However, some are obviously more dangerous than others. The more dangerous ones include pneumatic tools such as nail guns, table saws, chain saws, and circular saws.
Why do Circular Saws Bind and How can it be Prevented?
Power Tool Router
Circular saws in particular can be very dangerous to the DIYer or home-owner. Many people I know think the guard that slides down around the blade is annoying, and I agree. Because of this people tend to either remove these guards or tape or wire them up in a semi-permanent out-of-way position. The danger here is obvious, in that if the saw were to kick back due to binding or similar, you could have a serious accident.
Binding happens when the material being cut pinches the blade from either side as it's passing through. This is the cause for many accidents related to circular saws, and can actually be avoided very easily. Never attempt to cut through a board that's not supported sufficiently close to the target cut-line. Why? As the board is cut, its ability to hold itself up in a bridging position is taken away.
The board then begins sagging under its own weight, as well as that of the circular saw, causing the two upper corners of the board to create friction with the saw blade. As more and more of the board is cut, this friction increases, until you have yourself a full-blown binding on your hands. If the binding is sudden, you will most likely get a dangerous kickback, whereas if it's a slower process, you may just get a strained motor and a lot of smoke.
You don't want either. An experienced carpenter can usually avoid cases where binding may occur by simply taking away the possibility of downward movement immediately beneath the target cut-line. You can also play it safe by even allowing the presence of a small upward force by supporting the board close to the target cut-line, and letting an appropriate amount overhang on the two ends.
Another way a saw blade can bind is when you're not firmly holding down the board being cut. By allowing the board to move forward along with the circular saw - even slightly - you can inadvertently allow the board to begin "folding" at the kerf, pinching the rear-end of the saw blade. And you should know that, as with the form of binding I covered earlier, the "bending" of the board that causes the bind is often hardly noticeable with the naked eye.
Power Tool Injuries Stats
We may have heard it said that it's the more experienced or veteran carpenters that often suffer the worst injuries. This is because as you become more accustomed to a particular routine, you let your guard down and often get careless. If the previous sentence sounds familiar to you, watch out - it's only a matter of time before an accident will happen. I'm listing some statistics for information's sake below, (per year, in the US):
Power Nailers - 37,000 to ER
Chain Saws - 36,000 to ER
Table Saws - 29,000 to ER
Snow Blowers - 5,700 to ER
Circular Saws - 10,600 to ER
Riding Lawnmowers - 37,000 to ER
Power Drills - 5,800 to ER
Backhoes - 38 deaths a year
Air Compressors - 2,400 injuries a year
Wood Chippers - 3 deaths a year
As you can see, these are no small numbers. And we're not talking about little cuts and grazes here either! These are mostly limited to reported cases that put patients into the ER. Power tools with tremendous and limb-lobbing mechanical power are becoming more and more available to folks who, several decades ago, wouldn't dream of owning such a tool. It follows that many who purchase these tools often don't take the necessary safety precautions.
Due to their popularity, there are those who may think they know how to operate high-powered tools safely but because they have only the second-hand teacher of observation and maybe some limited experience, they run the risk of injury that could have otherwise been prevented by being better educated or informed. In conclusion, power tools may seem harmless enough, and granted, some are very small and even cute, but they are still very dangerous if not used with care.
If you're not sure how to use a particular machine, don't just go choppin' away anyway, but do some research before doing so, and pay attention to any safety pointers contained in the manual etc. For the most part, the actual functions and use of the power tools are not what people don't know, but it's the proper and safe use that folks can leave out. Whether you're an experienced veteran or a beginner, power tools are dangerous and it takes only a second of carelessness for an accident to happen.
Cyber Monday DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets 2011 Deals
Dec 01, 2011 08:47:44
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Cyber Monday DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets Feature
- 2-1/4 maximum hp, 12-amp electronic variable-speed motor provides power to rout smoothly through toughest hardwoods
- Electronic variable-speed with full feedback control for constant speed under load from 8,000-24,000 rpm
- Micro-fine depth-adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments
- Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
- Integral, through-the-column dust collection collects 95 percent of dust and provides superior bit visibility
Cyber Monday DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets Overview
Featuring a 12.0 Amp motor that delivers variable speed performance from 8,000 to 24,000 RPM, the DeWalt DW618PK 2-1/4 HP Router with a fixed base and a plunge base offers all the power and versatility that professionals demand. Soft start provides an extra-smooth finish and helps ensure that this tool even performs well when working with the toughest hardwoods. With a micro-fine depth adjus ent ring, you can count on accurate adjus ent in 1/64-inch increments, while a clear, Lexan sub-base ensures durability and visibility. The included sub-base concentricity gauge enhances accuracy even further by helping you maintain bit concentricity, and long, eight-slot collets that are self-releasing provide excellent bit retention for dependability. A steel motor cam lock and quick-release motor latches make adjus ents and base changes tool-free, fast and easy when you need to switch tasks, and a unique, detachable cordset helps keep this tool easy to service.Cyber Monday DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets Specifications
Featuring a 12 amp variable-speed, soft-start motor, the DEWALT 2-1/4-Inch Fixed-Base/Plunge-Base Router Combo Kit is packed with smart design features that make routing easy. Depth adjustment and base changes are tool free, and integrated dust control keeps work spaces clean and improves cut line visibility.
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The 2-1/4-horsepower, 12 amp motor allows the router to cut through the toughest hardwoods. The router's electronic variable-speed trigger lets you select from between 8,000 and 24,000 rpm for specific applications. And because this system employs full electronic feedback, you can trust the router to provide constant speed under load. In addition, the motor's soft start reduces start-up torque for optimum control.
The router's fixed base features a micro-fine depth-adjustment ring that provides precise bit adjustments in 1/64-inch increments. Because the ring--not the motor can--turns to adjust bit depth, a constant switch/cordset location is maintained when you are using the router in a table. This minimizes difficulty in turning the unit on and off and keeps operation consistent.
The plunge base features an adjustable five-position turret stop for use when making repeated plunge cuts. The easy-to-reach plunge-release lever and switch keep control at your fingertips during routing.
Quick, Secure Base and Bit Changes
The clear, LEXAN sub-base offers optimum bit visibility and base durability, and it accepts standard template-guide bushings to make application-specific setups easy. Also, a sub-base concentricity gauge is included. If you insert this into the collet prior to bit installation, it will help you center the sub-base relative to bit location when making your cut line off of the side of the base.
Moreover, the sub-base and other included bases are designed to make both base and bit changes easy. Quick-release motor latches allow for fast and easy motor-pack removal, while a spindle-lock button allows for single-wrench bit changes. The fixed base also offers a flat top, so the router can be set upside down for easy bit and depth changes. Additionally, long, self-releasing, eight-slotted collets provide improved bit retention and prevent bits from jamming.
Built for Consistency and Durability
Routing applications produce a lot of dust, which can result in extra wear and tear on electronic parts. That's why this system features a dust-sealed switch that protects against dust ingestion for longer tool life. Other components that contribute to the tool's overall consistency and durability include heavy-duty metal housings, precision-machined brass bushings, and case-hardened steel guide rods on the plunge base.
Comfortable Operation with Integrated Dust Control
Each base features comfortable rubber over-molded handles and a low center of gravity for improved balance and control and reduced user fatigue. The base also has a patented through-the-column dust-collection system. This allows a vacuum to be attached to the router without blocking your line of sight.
In addition, this router kit offers you the ability to work with the switch and cordset on either your left or right side. Also contributing to this setup's usability is a detachable cordset that can be easily serviced. A shorty cord motor pack is not required if you opt to place the motor can in a D-Handle base.
The DW618PK DEWALT 2-1/4-Inch EVS Fixed Base/ Plunge Base Router Combo Kit with Soft Start is backed by a three-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box
DW618M motor pack, DW6184 fixed base, DW6182 plunge base, 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets, wrench, sub-base concentricity gauge, large-hole sub-base, vacuum adapter, and kit box.
 Everything stays safe and secure in the durable kit box. |
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