Tools/metalchopsaw/induction
Some of the tools at the Hackspace are potentially hazardous to use, for these tools members are required to have an induction before they can use them. Inductions provide the most basic information on how to safely and effectively use the simpler functions of the tools, we appreciate that some members may have professional experience on some of these tools and in this case please tell your induction provider and the induction may be very reduced and just cover any risks or procedures specific to rLab. Some tools have multiple levels of induction in order to cover more advanced uses of that tool without making the basic induction take too long, higher induction levels will introduce some of the more advanced features of the tools but as with all inductions are only intended to provide basic information on the capabilities of the tools and how to use them safely. Some members of rLab may be willing to offer more detailed tuition beyond basic induction level or offer guided practice sessions in exchange for beer money or assistance on their own projects.
For all tools you are only required to take level-1 induction before use, after that you may perform any task that you feel confident you can do safely, higher levels of induction may be useful to you in performing more advanced operations but are not required before doing tasks covered in them so long as you're confident of your ability to handle those tasks without risk to yourself, others, or the tool.
PLEASE NOTE : All induction providers are volunteers who are providing inductions to the best of their ability but are NOT qualified instructors. Inductions are provided on a best-effort basis but you and you alone are responsible for your safety while using the tools and for satisfying yourself that you can operate the tools safely. There are professional training courses available from various providers in Reading and the surrounding area if you feel they are appropriate for the level of work you intend to undertake. Reading these notes is NOT a substitute for an in-person induction.
Note for wiki editors : Please do not edit induction pages unless you are one of of the people that gives that induction
Introduction Edit
The metal-cutting chop saw is able to cut all standard structural metals and quite a few others as well, up to some quite large sizes and at bevel angles.
Topic | Detailed contents | Rationale |
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Capabilities and limitations |
The chop saw can cut all standard metals for workshop use, including most steels, aluminium, brass and bronze. It is not suitable for use with hardened steels or hardenable steels, and must not be used with magnesium or titanium alloys. It has a maximum capacity of 125mm when running round tube at 90 degrees, and this capacity is reduced when cutting more complex shapes or when cutting at an angle. The minimum material thickness is 1.2mm, anything thinner than this is likely to tear and either get caught up in the saw or fired across the room. If you need to cut objects outside this size range it may be possible to do so on the bandsaw if you've had level-2 induction and can change it to a suitable blade. It can cut at angles up to 45 degrees in one direction but the blade cannot be canted over to cut a double bevel, if you need to do that it may be better to use an angle-grinder instead. |
Description of what the tool can and cannot safely do. |
Proper clothing & PPE |
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Any loose hanging clothing or hair can get tangled, either pulling someone in or immobilizing the user, PPE is needed for safety. |
Nomenclature |
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Allows for easy communication |
Adjustment the saw for your cut |
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Getting the saw properly set up at the start is essential for safety and will make later adjustment easier |
Positioning |
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These considerations can significantly improve pleasantness for user, and those around them |
Startup / cutting / shutdown |
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This ensures the correct use of the tool. |
Cleaning up |
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Clean up ensures pleasant use and reduced fire risk. |