A contour saw is a type of band saw that is used to cut intricate shapes and curves. It is also known as a vertical band saw because the blade is mounted vertically. The blade is driven by two wheels, one at each end, and the material is fed through the saw by hand or by a mechanical feed.
Contour saw is used in a variety of industries, including woodworking, metalworking, and plastics manufacturing. They are also used by artists and hobbyists to create custom pieces.
Here are some of the features of a contour saw:
- Vertical blade: The blade is mounted vertically, which allows it to cut intricate shapes and curves.
- Adjustable table: The table can be adjusted to tilt in both directions, which allows you to cut at different angles.
- Miter gauge: The miter gauge is used to guide the workpiece as it is fed through the saw.
- Blade tensioning system: The blade tensioning system ensures that the blade is properly tensioned, which prevents it from slipping or breaking.
- Blade guides: The blade guides help to keep the blade in place as it cuts through the material.
Contour saws are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of cutting tasks. They are particularly well-suited for cutting intricate shapes and curves, but they can also be used for making straight cuts. If you need to cut a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and composites, then a contour saw is a good option to consider.
Here are some of the things to keep in mind when using a contour saw:
- Always wear safety glasses when using a contour saw.
- Be careful not to touch the blade, as it can be very sharp.
- Do not force the saw, as this can damage the blade or the workpiece.
- Always make sure that the blade is properly tensioned before using the saw.
- Keep the blade guides clean and free of debris.
By following these safety precautions, you can help to prevent accidents when using a contour saw.