Miter Saw
A miter saw is a stationary power tool used for making precise crosscuts and angled cuts in materials such as wood and plastic. It consists of a motor-driven circular blade that is lowered onto the workpiece by pulling a handle. The miter saw offers high accuracy and repeatability, making it ideal for cutting clean, consistent angles and lengths.
Kinematic Slide: Allows the saw head to slide forward and backward for cutting wider material.
Sliding Fence: Supports and aligns the workpiece for accurate cuts.
Angle Controls: Adjust the miter angle of the saw for angled cuts.
Compound Adjust Lever: Locks and unlocks the saw head for bevel cuts.
Free-Angle Knob: Allows adjustment of miter angles without snapping to preset stops.
Angle Detent Latch: Engages preset miter angles for quick, repeatable cuts.
Override: Bypasses the preset angle detents for fine angle adjustment.
Table: Provides a stable surface to support the workpiece during cutting.
Blade Guard: Automatically covers the blade to reduce accidental contact.
Blade: The rotating cutting component used to cut material.
Motor: Powers the blade during operation.
Handle: Used to lower the blade into the workpiece in a controlled motion.
Power Switch: Controls power to the saw motor.
Safety Interlock Switch: Prevents the saw from starting unless intentionally engaged.
To use a miter saw, the operator places the workpiece flat against the saw table and firmly against the fence to ensure proper alignment. The desired miter or bevel angle is set using the saw’s adjustment controls. With the blade raised, the operator turns on the saw and allows it to reach full speed before lowering the blade into the material using the handle. The cut is made with controlled downward pressure, and once complete, the operator raises the blade and waits for it to stop spinning before removing the workpiece and turning off the machine.
Bevel Angle Range: 47° left and 47° right
Bevel Stops: 0°, 33.9°, 45° left and right
Height: 20-1/2''
Length: 32''
Miter Angle Range: 52° Left, 60° Right
Miter Detents: 0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, 45° (Left/Right)
Miter Positive Stops: 0°, 15°, 22.5,° 31.6°, 45° (Left/Right)
Safety
Before using a miter saw, ensure the blade is properly installed and tightened, the fence is secure, and the guard is functioning correctly. Wear safety glasses and keep the work area clear. Position the workpiece flat against the table and firmly against the fence, and plan the cut before turning the saw on.
General Safety:
The spinning blade can cause severe injury if contacted during operation.
Keep fingers and hands well away from the blade at all times.
Never cross your arms while holding the workpiece and operating the saw.
During Operation:
Maintain firm control of the workpiece with pressure directed into the table and against the fence.
Use the hold-down clamp when necessary to prevent movement.
Position the workpiece to avoid pinching the blade, especially near the end of the cut, to reduce the risk of kickback.
Ensure offcut material is supported by the fence or a sacrificial fence for smaller pieces.
Post-Operation:
Turn off the miter saw and allow the blade to come to a complete stop before raising the blade or removing material.
Remove offcuts only after the blade has stopped.
Clean the area after the saw is fully powered off.
Members are allowed to use this equipment only with dedicated assistance or supervision from a Makerspace staff member.
Hazards: Minor injuries that can be resolved with first aid kit or ice pack, but potential for serious lacerations and minor amputations that require medical attention
Power: Greater than 0.5 HP, greater than 10-amp, 120 VAC, greater than 24V DC
Examples: Powerful portable tools and light industrial tools. 3D printers/processes with toxic/corrosive wash steps, CNC interlocked/enclosed mill, lathe, waterjet
Access Requirements: Members must attend a training session and pass written and hands-on exams. Improper use will be punished with a verbal warning, a note in the members file, mandatory retraining, and potential loss of access to the space.
Supervision Requirements: The Makerspace must be open and a makerspace staff member must approve use of the equipment each time it is used. Staff may deny access or place additional restrictions on the use of this equipment on a per-use or per-person basis.