When it comes to making precise cuts on a table saw, it’s important to be aware of the different cut measurements that are available per side. The reason for this is that the two sides of the blade can produce different cuts, based on how the wood is positioned in relation to the blade.
The left side of the blade is typically called the “kerf side,” and this is the side where the blade cuts into the wood. The right side of the blade is known as the “chip side,” and this is where the chips created by the cut are ejected from the wood.
Depending on which side of the blade you use, you can get different results. For example, if you position the wood so that it’s closer to the kerf side, you’ll get a cleaner cut with less chips. Conversely, if you position the wood closer to the chip side, you’ll get a cut with more chips and less precision.
It’s important to be aware of these differences when making cuts on a table saw, as they can affect the outcome of your project. By knowing which side of the blade to use for each cut, you can ensure that your projects come out looking exactly how you want them to.
Table saws typically have different cut measurements per side because of the way the blade is aligned. When the wood is placed against the fence, it’s closer to one side of blade or the other.
This happens by design on a table saw. The two sides of the blade are intentionally ground at different angles so that when the fence is set parallel to the blade, one side will make a cleaner cut than the other.
The angle on the chip side is greater so it takes more off with each cut but leaves a straighter edge. The angle on the kerf side is less, so it takes less off with each cut but leaves a more beveled edge.
That’s why you might hear people say that you should use the right side of the blade for ripping and the left side for crosscutting.
It’s not an absolute rule, but it’s a good starting point to get clean, precise cuts.
So why do table saws have different cut measurements per side? It all comes down to the angle of the blade. When the wood is placed against the fence, it’s closer to one side of blade or the other, which causes that side of blade to do most of the cutting.
Knowing which side of blade to use for each type of cut will help produce accurate results. Experiment with your saw to see what works best for you. With a little practice, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect cut every time.
