All about chain saws

Chainsaws are reliable and proven carpentry tools. They are distinguished by high performance characteristics, wide consumer availability and ease of use.

The chain saw is a lightweight, versatile tool used for cutting PVC pipes and lightweight concrete, sawing wood and making various wood products and lumber. Thanks to the design features of the cutting element, thick logs, beams, beams, stacks and boards are cut with the help of chain models.

It is not possible to carry out these types of work using modern circular saws, which is why the chain saw has not lost its relevance for almost a hundred years... The advantages of chain models include light weight, the ability to perform corner cuts and low cost. In addition, many devices are equipped with a dust extraction system, electronic control, parallel corner stops, anti-splinter and anti-slip bands, cutting line indicators, automatic chain tension and an oil flow adjustment function.

The disadvantages include several overall dimensions, compared to circular saws, and smaller, in comparison with rotary miter models, sawing accuracy. The disadvantage is the need for constant monitoring of the level of lubricant in the tank.

The chain saw is presented in the form of a device consisting of a motor that generates torque, and a removable saw part, consisting of a guide bar and a chain with a cutting edge stretched over it. The unit also includes a drive sprocket, a rear handle with a start button and a front handle equipped with a protective shield. The engine can be longitudinal or transverse. The transverse placement ensures that the drive sprocket is on the same axis with the motor and greatly simplifies the design. However, with this arrangement, the engine is sideways, which causes certain inconveniences when working in confined spaces. Models with a longitudinal arrangement do not have such a drawback, however, they cost a little more. The principle of operation of the unit is as follows: the engine transmits torque to the drive sprocket, which, in turn, moves the chain closed in a ring along the guide rail.

The main technical characteristics of chain saws are engine power, shaft speed and bar length.

• By power, devices are divided into 3 categories: low-power, medium and extra-powerful. The former have a power below 1.5 kW and are designed for delimbing, sawing thin wood or plastic workpieces. The middle class models are equipped with an engine with a power of 1.5 to 2 kW.They represent the largest group of devices. They are used in the woodworking industry, when cutting firewood for stoves and fireplaces, as well as in construction and repairs. The devices of the highest class are equipped with an engine with a power of more than 2 kW, thanks to which they are used when performing forestry work and are able to saw logs with a diameter of 30 cm.
• The length of the bar affects the depth of the cut and depends on the power of the engine. So, tires 40 cm long are used in combination with a motor with a power of more than 2 kW, 35 cm canvases with a 1.8 kW engine, and tires with a size of 30 cm are intended for low-power devices.
• Shaft rotation speed has a direct impact on the productivity of the tool: the higher it is, the more workpieces the device can cut in a certain time. However, when choosing a speed, the power of the engine must also be taken into account. A low-power motor will not make a large number of revolutions, all the advantage will come to naught.

The main criterion for the classification of chain saws is the type of power supply of the devices. On this basis, gasoline, electric, pneumatic and battery tools are distinguished.

A chain saw is a device powered by an electric motor. The devices are the most economical type of saws, they produce little noise and are completely environmentally friendly. The devices are equipped with saw blades from 35 to 40 cm long. They are designed for solving technical problems of average complexity. The advantages of the type include the ability to use the tool in closed rooms, which is due to the absence of harmful exhaust and the presence of a dust collector, which is equipped with most models. The presence of an emergency brake is also noted, which instantly stops the movement of the chain in the event of any emergency situations. In addition, electric models are very easy to use, have ergonomic shapes and low weight.

The disadvantages of the species include complete volatility., which imposes restrictions on the use of power saws in the field and in places where electricity is not supplied. In addition, in terms of engine power, electric models are significantly inferior to gasoline ones and cannot be fully used, for example, in the construction industry. Another significant drawback of the models is the too short electrical wire, which does not allow work at a considerable distance from the power source or requires an extension cord. When operating the electric saw, it is recommended to take a five-minute break after every 20 minutes of operating the tool under load, thus allowing the engine to cool down.

Such devices are equipped with a two-stroke internal combustion engine and an automatic centrifugal clutch mechanism. The presence of the latter prevents the movement of the chain when the engine is idling, which significantly increases the safety of the unit. Gasoline saws have an emergency shutdown function and are equipped with a recoil starter, electronic ignition, membrane carburetor and air cooling system. Due to the large number of components and assemblies, the weight of gasoline models significantly exceeds that of electrical devices and is their main disadvantage.

The disadvantages also include the emission of exhaust gases during operation., which imposes a ban on the use of devices in closed rooms. Among the advantages, one can note the high mobility of gasoline saws, which allows you to work in any conditions and on any terrain, including in the forest, as well as the ability to work for several hours in a row without technical breaks. In addition, the units have a very high engine power and can be used when cutting industrial wood and thick logs.

Petrol saws are divided into 4 categories: household, semi-professional, professional, special and mini saws. The former are used for sawing firewood, trimming excess branches and cutting thin trees. The latter are intended both for the construction industry and for sawing medium-thick trees. The third category is represented by powerful units that can operate continuously throughout the entire working day and have a resource exceeding 1000 hours.

Such models are used for felling commercial timber and its subsequent sawing. Special saws are devices equipped with a telescopic handle in the form of a rod and designed for the maintenance of tall trees.

Such devices are equipped with an electric motor, and a rechargeable battery is used as a power source. The saws are not very powerful and are only suitable for home use. Among the advantages are high mobility, the absence of strong noise and environmental friendliness. The disadvantages include the need for regular battery charging and limited operating time on a single battery charge.

Such devices are used when working in rooms that are subject to increased safety standards for humidity or explosion hazard, and the use of gasoline or electric saws is prohibited. The devices are equipped with motors with a power of more than 2.3 kW, have a shaft rotation speed of about 8,000 rpm and weigh only 6-8 kg. The disadvantage is the need to purchase a compressor unit. Pros: high power and long working life.

When choosing a tool, it is recommended to pay attention to the type of power supply, power and location of the motor. So, when buying a tool for giving, the best option would be an inexpensive cordless or electric saw. For professional activities in a carpentry or furniture workshop, it is better to purchase an electric model with a powerful motor, high shaft rotation speed and a chain with victorious solders. If the saw is bought for logging or for metalworking, the choice should definitely fall on a professional gasoline model.

There are a few simple rules to follow when working with a chain saw.

• Before using a new saw, the bar must be installed and the chain fitted correctly. It is necessary to check the reliability of the fasteners and pour oil into the tank.
• An electric saw that has been stored in frost must be kept at room temperature for 2 days before use. This will allow condensation from the motor winding to evaporate.
• A chain that is too tight puts a lot of stress on the motor and causes it to overheat.
• The sharpening of the chain should only be carried out at a service center.
• When storing the saw for a long time, the chain must be removed and placed in a container with oil.

In the next video, an expert will talk about classification, operating principles and safety with chain saws.