Name: Colin Hansen Date: 1st May 2010

Machine:MITRE SAW

Suitable materials and processes:

This type uses a circular blade and the main use of this type is crosscutting although some have the facility to rip timber along the grain.A mitre saw is a power tool used to make a quick, accurate crosscut in a work piece. Common uses include framing operations and the cutting of mouldings. Most mitre saws are relatively small and portable, with common blade sizes ranging from eight to 12 inches.

The mitre saw makes cuts by pulling a spinning circular saw blade down onto a workpieces in a short, controlled motion. The workpieces is typically held against a fence, which provides a precise cutting angle between the blade and the longest work piece edge. In standard position, this angle is fixed at 90°.

A primary distinguishing feature of the mitre saw is the mitre index that allows the angle of the blade to be changed relative to the fence. While most mitre saws enable precise one-degree incremental changes to the mitre index, many also provide "stops" that allow the mitre index to be quickly set to common angles (such as 15°, 30°, or 45°).

BS4163 Main points:- Students may only use Circular Saws when they have been assessed and under direct supervision of trained staff. A record of training should be keptHazards- Hands or fingers can come into contact with the blade- Wood dust can become inhaled- Inadvertent starting of the machine can present a hazard- The saw blade can become loose- The blade can move forward inadvertently- Blunt or damaged blades can present a hazardRisk Control Measures- Electrical isolation must be provided and that it is controlled by a starter incorporating an overload protection and no-volt release- A mushroom headed STOP button that can quickly stop the machine in an emergency- Bench versions must be securely mounted to the bench- A guard should be used to enclose the non-cutting part of the saw bladeIt should be possible to lock the machine to off when not in use.Machines should be fitted with a spring assisted return mechanismRipping operation should not be carried outMachine should not be used if there is a risk the operator could be distractedBlades should be sharp and should be of the correct pattern and distortion free.

CLEAPSS Main Points:HAZARDSTrapping - Fingers or material can become trapped between the blade and a fence or guard.Flying objects - Workpieces can be thrown violently if not held correctly, as a result of ‘‘kickback’’ or if the machine starts unexpectedly.User injury - Human contact with moving or rotating parts can cause cuts or abrasions and particles from the sawing process can enter the

eye. On some radial arm saws, the blade can move forward inadvertently.

Common Problems:Fingers or material can become trapped between the blade and a fence or guard.Work pieces can be thrown violently if not held correctly, as a result of ‘‘kickback’’ or if the machine starts unexpectedly.Human contact with moving or rotating parts can cause cuts or abrasions and particles from the sawing process can enter the eye. On mitre saws, the blade can move forward inadvertently.Long hair, dangling jewellery or loose clothing can become entangled with rotating parts, dragging the user onto them.