Your table saw is a workhorse in your workshop, so it’s important to keep it clean and in good working order. A dirty or dull blade can cause inaccurate cuts and lead to poor results.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to clean a table saw blade safely and effectively. I’ll also share some tips on how to avoid blade corrosion. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
Some professionals opt to replace table saw blades every month or two, but they are expensive. If you want to save some money instead of buying brand new blades, try cleaning your blade with these steps before throwing it away. Read more here How to clean the table saw top.
- Table saws are the key woodworking tool for many projects.
- A table saw needs occasional maintenance to keep it in good working condition.
- Be sure to follow all of the necessary safety precautions before cleaning a blade.
How to Clean a Table Saw Blade The Step-by-Step Guide
Here are some steps that you can do to clean your saw blade easily.
- Ensure that the power is off on the table saw and unplug it to avoid any accidents.
- Disconnect the table saw extension cord from its socket so you don’t accidentally switch it on.
- Also, disconnect any dust collector or vacuum hoses that are attached to the machine.
- Remove all scrap wood, nails, staples, bolts, and other debris from around where the blade enters into the tabletop. This will ensure easy access for you when you’re trying to clean out any dirt or sawdust particles there at a later time. You can do this by gently lifting up each side of the fence (which attaches to either side of the carriages) and pushing the scrap material out of there.
- Gently lift up each side of the fence (which attaches to either side of the carriages) and push any material that might be stuck under there out of there. You can use a screwdriver or putty knife for this task if it is too difficult to lift up just by hand.
- Use your putty knife or screwdriver to remove dust around each area where you’ll be able to access while cleaning, including at the back of the blade, underneath the throat plate, etc.
- Once everything is clear, unscrew your blade guard on both sides so you can remove it completely. It should come right off easily once all screws are gone. Be sure to keep this part safe until you are ready to put it back on your table saw.
- If you have a blade cover, unscrew that as well so it doesn’t get in the way of the cleaning process. Read more here about How to align a table saw blade.
- Use your hose to spray down all around where the blade goes into the tabletop and any other areas where dust might be present. This is also a good time to inspect these areas for rust, wear or damage if you haven’t done so already before cleaning. You can use either water or woodworking oil (while wearing gloves) to help prevent rusting if necessary.
- Use tips soaked with either water or woodworking oil (while wearing gloves) to clean up rusty areas if they exist, then wipe away the excess.
- Use a putty knife to wipe away any excess oil or water from around where the blade goes in and makes contact with the tabletop.
- Use a vacuum hose attached to your dust collector to clean up all sawdust particles in the machine, especially around where the blade enters into the tabletop. You can also use an air compressor if you have one to blow out these areas instead of using a hose.
- Just remember – when cleaning up sawdust, always wear a mask because breathing that in isn’t good for your lungs! Once everything has been cleaned up, go ahead and replace your blade guard and cover pieces so it’s ready for safer operation once again.
Clean Off Any Debris On The Blade With A Wire Brush
Each type of table saw has its own blade guard and throat plate design. However, generally speaking, you can remove these pieces to clean them by following the instructions in this tutorial. After removing the blade guard and throat plate, spray any sawdust or debris off with a hose. Use oil or water (if necessary) to help dissolve any rust. Then, wipe away any excess oil or water around where the blade goes into the tabletop. Use your vacuum hose to suck up any loose sawdust particles until your table saw looks fresh and clean once again.
Final step – replace all pieces of your blade guard and throat plate back on after cleaning before you plug anything in!
These are just a few ideas to help you clean up your table saw. The best way to keep your machine running efficiently is to keep it well maintained and regularly cleaned out.
The best way to keep your machine running efficiently is to keep it well maintained and regularly cleaned up.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your table saw blade is a quick and easy process that can be done with just a few simple tools. By following these steps, you can help keep your blade in good condition and ensure accuracy while cutting. Have you cleaned your table saw blade recently? What tips do you have to share?
FAQs
How can you tell if your table saw blade is dirty?
If the blade is dirty, it can be dangerous for you to operate – not only can blades that are too dirty fail (causing kickback), but they can also become more difficult to handle and control, which can increase the chances of injury. Read more here How to clean a circular saw blade.
How often should you clean your table saw blade?
I recommend checking over your table saw blade once a week and cleaning it up every two or three times. This is just a general estimate that can vary depending on how much you use your machine. Just remember – if in doubt, clean it out!