DIY Network

Cutting and Ripping Boards and Plywood From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-329

Host David Thiel explains the proper table saw technique for cutting and ripping large boards and sheets of plywood.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure E

• First, keep the table clean and polished. Rust and debris can cause friction that will inhibit a cut.

• Always employ proper safety techniques when working with a table saw, and be sure to wear safety glasses.

• Ripping is running the blade along the grain of the wood. A crosscut runs across the grain.

• Since plywood is a manufactured material with several layers of wood bonded together, generally with each layer at a right angle to the next, there is no specific grain direction. In this case a rip cut would be cutting lengthwise and a crosscut would be cutting across.

• When ripping a large sheet of plywood (figure A) on a table saw, use an outfeed table (figure B) or roller stand to support the board as it comes off the saw.

• Put the best edge of the wood against the fence and push the corner of the board into the fence to keep the board tight against the fence throughout the cut (figure C).

• Stand to the left of the blade so that you’re not in the "danger zone" between the blade in the fence.

• Make sure the blade is at the correct height for the cut. A good rule-of-thumb: the blade height should be set to a tooth above the depth of the wood you are cutting. After the cut, wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before leaning over to pick up the wood.

• Do not use a fence when making a crosscut. The wood will bind between the fence and the blade. Instead, use your miter gauge for crosscutting. You can attach a sacrificial fence to the miter gauge (figure D) to help keep the board even during the cut.

• Use a roller stand to support the board as you move through the cut. Set the roller stand so that it’s just below the level of the wood. Make sure the roller stand is in the proper position to actually support the board as it separates (figure E). After the cut, wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before leaning over to pick up the wood.

RESOURCES :

Delta X5 Table Saw
USA: 800-223-7278 Canada 800-463-3582
Email: contactus@pnrtoolgrp.com
Delta Machinery
4825 Hwy. 45 North
P.O. Box 2468
Jackson, TN 38302-2468
Website: www.deltawoodworking.com

HTC Outfeed Roller Table
HTC Products, Inc.
332 E. Lincoln Ave.
Royal Oak, MI 48068
Phone: 800-624-2027