8 Tips to make your track saw blade last longer (money-saving info)

As an avid woodworker, you understand that having the perfect instruments is vital. A track saw is one of the essential tools for a woodworker as it can create precise, clean cuts in various materials. Although, just like any other tool, these blades can become dull after multiple uses and reduce what would have been an impeccable end product. Replenishing blades frequently can be demanding and may affect your workflow. To save money and improve the quality of your cuts, follow these tips to make your track saw blade last longer. I will go over these tips in short here:

• Choose the Right Blade for the Job
• Keep the Blade Clean
• Proper Storage of the Blade
• Use the Right Speed
• Adjust the Depth of Cut
• Use the Right Feed Rate
• Avoid Binding the Blade
• Sharpen or Replace the Blade When Necessary

This article offers advice on how to extend the life of a track saw blade. We will explore what affects blade durability, provide maintenance and care tips, and other important information that ensure you get the best out of your track saw blade.

What is a Track Saw Blade?

A track saw blade is an arbor-fitted circular saw blade designed for specialized use with a track saw. This efficient tool is equipped with a guide rail, granting top-notch, impeccably straight cuts in different materials. As the rotating blade moves, it carves with remarkable accuracy and exactitude into the material.

Components of a Track Saw Blade

The components of a track saw blade that work in unison to give an immaculate, accurate cut are:

• Teeth: These sharp edges of the blade possess the ability to cut through materials. More info in my article Understanding Track Saw Blade Teeth: How They Affect Your Cut
• Gullet: This area in between the teeth enable debris to pass through.
• Plate: The blade comprises the body, which holds and sustains the saw teeth and gullets.
• Kerf: The cut produced by the blade has a certain width, which is an important factor when cutting pieces of wood to size. Later in this article, I will come back to this.

Different Types of Track Saw Blades

There exists a variety of track saw blades, varying in size, number of teeth and material. Every brand, like Festool, Makita, Dewalt, and many others has its own blades, which I recommend using. Including among them are the following:

• Rip Blades: These blades possess fewer teeth and are constructed for cutting along the grain of the material. Keep an eye on my website, soon I will make a guide on how to find the best track saw blade for ripping
• Crosscut Blades: This cutting tool features extra teeth and is engineered to slice against the grain of the material. Related article: 5 Track Saw Blades for Making Crosscuts (Fine Tooth Saw Blades)
• Combination Blades: This saw blade offers the advantage of both rip and crosscut teeth, allowing it to perform either type of cut with ease.

To learn more about the different types of track saw blades, I suggest you should read my article What Are the Different Types of Track Saw Blades – Quick & Easy Guide

Factors That Affect Track Saw Blade Longevity

Comprehending the various aspects that can influence your track saw blade can help you make informed decisions when operating the saw and expand blade longevity.

• Material of the Blade: The construction of the blade can influence its strength and endurance. Blades with carbide tips typically endure longer than those crafted of other substances, such as high-speed steel.
• Type of Saw: Different track saws have varying levels of horsepower, speed and cutting ability. There is also a difference when you have a corded or cordless track saw. If the saw is not strong enough for the task or an inappropriate blade is used, it can drastically decrease the life expectancy of the blade.
• Depth of Cut: Deep cuts or using an undersized blade will decrease the saw blade lifespan. Doing either can result in your track saw blade wearing out quickly.
• Frequency of Use: Frequent utilization of your track saw blade will extend the life of a track saw blade and you may have to get a new one if you utilize it regularly.
• Feed Rate: Working the saw at an inappropriately hurried pace can result in accelerated blade deterioration.
• Quality of the Blade: The grade of the blade has a bearing on blade longevity; a superior one can endure longer than a lesser-grade one, even when they are crafted of the same material.

Tips to make your track saw blade last longer

A track saw is an indispensable tool for any woodworker, novice or expert. To extend the life of a track saw blade, it must be kept in proper condition – with the track saw blade being of utmost significance. Here are some ways to extend the life of your blade:

Choose the Right Blade for the Job

Selecting the proper blade is the utmost imperative step. Blades made for different materials and cutting applications should not be interchanged; using an incorrect blade will result in a shortened saw blade lifespan due to excessive wear and tear. Prior to beginning your task, double-check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended blade type. Related article: How to Select the Right Track Saw Blade – Quick Helping Guide

Keep the Blade Clean

For optimal performance, clean your track saw blade after each use to clear away any sawdust or debris. Doing so prevents a build-up of dirt and sawdust, which can cause the blade to overheat and wear out quickly.

Proper Storage of the Blade

Ensure the track saw blade is clean and dry prior to putting it into its protective case or cover when not in use, so as to preserve it from being harmed.

Use the Right Speed

To extend the life of your track saw’s blade, adjust its speed to the material you’re cutting. Operate it at the appropriate rate to prevent it from becoming too hot and wearing away quickly.

Adjust the Depth of Cut

By changing the depth of the cut, you can reduce track saw blade wear. Be sure to adjust it accordingly to accommodate the material’s thickness that you are cutting.

Use the Right Feed Rate

Cutting hard materials more slowly can lessen the strain on a blade, thereby extending its life.

Avoid Binding the Blade

To prolong the life of the blade, take precautions to prevent excessive pressure when binding it. Be conscious of the wear and tear this could cause on the teeth, leading to decreased blade longevity.

Sharpen or Replace the Blade When Necessary

Ensure the blade longevity of your saw by promptly sharpening or replacing the blade if it appears dull or damaged. Doing so will prevent unnecessary track saw blade wear. Learn how to replace fast and perfectly in this article.

Maintenance and Care of Your Track Saw Blade

Regular upkeep and attention can significantly prolong the lifespan of your track saw blade. Here are a few suggestions:

Inspecting the Blade for Damage

Periodically examine the blade for any indications of track saw blade wear, such as missing or broken teeth, fractures, or bending.

Cleaning the Blade

After utilizing your track saw, make sure to brush off any residue or sawdust that may be adhered to it by using a soft brush or cloth in combination with a cleaning solution specifically made for saw blades.

Lubrication of the Blade

Applying a lubricating or cooling solution can keep the blade from becoming excessively warm during use, inhibiting overheating and diminishing track saw blade wear.

Sharpening the Blade

Sharpening your blade periodically guarantees that it remains pointed and usable. You can personally sharpen your tool or consult an expert.

Replacing the Blade

If your track saw blade is too worn out or broken to use, make sure to invest in a high-quality replacement. Find blades specifically made for the track saw and material you will be cutting. When replacing your blade, always abide by the manufacturer’s directions to guarantee proper installation and positioning.

Tips to make your track saw blade last longer – Conclusion

To extend the life of a track saw blade, taking care of your track saw blade is a must. Wisely selecting the right blade for the job, keeping it clean, storing it suitably, and using it appropriately will allow you to extend its life cycle and save money in the long run. Besides, inspecting and maintaining your blade on a regular basis – from cleaning and lubricating to sharpening or replacing – is also critical. By following these tips, you can help your track saw blade last longer and deliver an impressive cutting performance.

If you’re interested in learning more about track saw blades, be sure to check out our article “The Important Role of Track Saw Blade Kerf Width (Quick Answer)” for more information on this critical component of your saw. Knowing the right kerf width for your project can make a big difference in the quality of your cuts, so don’t miss out on this valuable information.