Table Saw
This is one of the most dangerous but also one of the most versatile woodworking tools.
Did you know you can also turn a rotary tool into a micro table saw?
Health & Safety
Unless we get our hands on a stopping table saw, this is a machine that can take fingers off or launch workpieces across the room. Take precautions to prevent the worst from happening!
- read the manual
- get a personal introduction
- never operate the saw if you are in the CoMakingSpace alone
Elektra Beckum PK 255
| MachineInfoBox Elektra Beckum PK 255 | |
|---|---|
| |
| Synonyms: | sawbench, bench saw; DE: Tischkreissäge, TKS, Baukreissäge, Baustellenkreissäge, stationäre Kreissäge; nearly identical: Metabo PK 255 |
| Type: | Table Saw |
| Material: | wood |
| Used with: | push sticks, circular saw blades, dust extractor, inclinometer, table saw jigs |
| Location: | Wood Workshop |
| Access Requirements: | Table Saw Introduction |
| Status: | Working |
| Manual: | manualslib.com |
| Tutors: | Lukas NitramLegov Luzian Keno Baumphil |
| Similar (More or Less): | handheld circular saw, chop saw |
Dust Extraction
Hook up the dust extractor every time you use the saw, and use the top blade guard whenever possible (it would get in the way when making hidden cuts or using the crosscut sled, but is useful in all other cases)!
Saw Blades
This machine uses circular saw blades with 250 mm OD/30 mm ID. Since 2022, we are using a 60-tooth "universal" blade by Freud. [1]
You'll need a large wrench for the arbor nut: it should be in the compartment on the right.
You can cut up to 80 mm thick workpieces on this saw.
Maintenance
The blade should be sharpened or replaced when it becomes dull, otherwise using it is very dangerous! Tell a manager or tutor if you are noticing any problems, e.g. increased force required to push your workpieces or poor quality cuts.
Decreased cutting ability can also result from dirt buildup - here are some cleaning tips.
Additional maintenance routines are found on page 16 of the manual. For an exploded view and spare parts, see wmv-dresden.de
Accuracy
CAUTION: Something in the height adjustment is not spring-balanced - the blade exhibits slightly different inclinations when being brought up than when being brought down. Make sure you measure this angle in the same situation every time!
Fences & Jigs
- parallel fence
- simple miter fence
- for very precise angles, we could build a jig that holds the miter fence upright for setting its inclination with an inclinometer!
- sliding table
- for angled crosscuts: used together with the miter fence and/or lever clamps
Additional accessories may be self-made or found on eBay or similar - the exact model is not made anymore.
Also see "table saw jigs"
Crosscut Sled
When making repeated or small 90° crosscuts, it is highly recommended to use a table saw sled instead of the small miter fence. With this self-made accessory, the table saw can replace the chop saw in many cases.
Push Sticks
A simple wooden push stick is available, but it's easy to make custom ones that may be more suitable for your project. If anything about the cut you're trying to make does not feel right, use a different push stick or ask someone with more experience!
Depending on the size of your workpiece, push blocks may also work.
