Precautions To Take During Metal Sawing

Metal sawing isn’t something you perform every day at home. It is a rare situation when you are either working on a big building project for your home or if you have developed this love for metal sawing. In any case, you need to take precautions to keep yourself safe because it might look easy, but it is a dangerous task as tools are sharp and not suitable for a beginner.

Choose The Right Tool

The same blade can’t cut all types of metal. For example, using a heavy cutter for a thin metal sheet or tool will enhance the risk of metal slipping due to pressure. Thus, it’s important to choose the right blade for the right material.

Blades are of two types- ferrous and non-ferrous. As the name suggests, ferrous blades are used to cut ferrous metals such as iron and cast iron. On the other hand, non-ferrous blades are used to cut softer metals like aluminum. Bi-Metal blades are a popular choice because they can cut either ferrous or non-ferrous materials that are not heat-treated.

Protect Yourself with The Safety Gear

One must undertake the metal sawing process after wearing proper safety gear. For heavy metal sawing, CSA-certified personal protective equipment is essential. One must also wear gloves to lessen the danger from friction and vibration. Your eyes also need protection, and safety glasses are mandatory. If you are working on a home project and lack PPE and other safety gear, wear your shades to protect your eyes.

Protection should be your priority, even if you are a pro, and you must always wear PPE.

Adopt The Right Metal Sawing Technique

To get the desired results, adopt the correct technique.

Before starting, choose the right blade. Take the help of an expert, if needed.

Wear your PPE, and get the material ready. Measure the material and mark it to make the right cuts. No matter what metal sawing tool you use, always clamp down the metal. At home, it is not possible to have professional tools, so it is advised to get your metals cut by a professional.

The speed and feed rate of cutting are also crucial. Harder metals require a precise and slow cut. However, even thin metals require steady sawing for smoother cuts.  Softer materials can be cut with a higher speed and feed than harder materials.  Consult a manual when selecting the speed and feeds of the cutting technique you use.  Be very careful when attempting to cut heat-treated or exceptionally hard materials as they typically require special cutting tools or blades.

Choosing The Right Metal Saw 

There are different types of metal sawing machines. You don’t need those heavy industry machines if you are a DIYer. A handheld saw may look like the easiest option, but it is not. For a DIYer, a chop saw is best. It is stable and comes with a protective guard. It can cut all types of metals, but it might not be helpful if you are into sheet sawing. Chop saw is portable, easy to use, and can make straighter cuts on thin and thick metals.

It has a platform to clamp down the metal and offers safer cuts for inexperienced people. Their only con is- they are high-priced, but if you cut metal regularly, it is a good investment.

Get The Required Training

It might sound like an exaggeration and unnecessary for a one-time project, but if you often undertake metal sawing projects, then acquiring the training should be on your list. Of course, you don’t need the heavy training required to undertake industrial projects, but you can intern with an expert and learn the basics.

Choose An Affordable Option

Investing in a chop saw makes no sense if you are doing a one-time project. Considering your metal sawing needs, go for a manual tool. Tools like a bandsaw, handsaw, tin snips, an angle grinder, metal air shears, etc., are some of the metal sawing tools which you can use. They are affordable and effective.

Don’ts of Metal Sawing

These are some essential don’ts you must avoid whenever you are sawing.

• Never stand in front of the cutting machine when starting it. The blade might not be in place, resulting in drastic results.
• Do not exceed the maximum operating speed.
• Never use a chipped or cracked wheel. It will affect the cuts and send the metal chips flying, which can be life-threatening.
• Always use the right-sized blade. If a blade doesn’t fit the machine, don’t force it and get another one that does.
• Never start a machine without a safety guard.
• Do not force cut.
• Never use mounting flanges which are not clean, flat, and equal.

Best Metal Sawing Services in Albuquerque

Metal sawing requires technical expertise, the right tools, training, and equipment to make the right cuts. It isn’t easy and shouldn’t be undertaken if one lacks proper training.

We offer premium metal sawing services at New Mexico Metals LLC, Albuquerque. We are proud to inform you that we meet retail and wholesale needs. So, be it your DIY or heavy-duty project, we can cut the metal for you. Our state-of-the-art sawing machines and expert staff will tend to all your needs and assist you in making your project a success.

Visit us today or contact us anytime.