Although a table saw is indispensable when you’re working with large pieces of wood, there’s no denying the risks that accompany this power tool!
Over the years, I heard of several horrific table saw-related injuries, which left me shaken. Although I enjoy woodwork and various DIY projects, I understand that safety is a priority. However, I was not entirely sure about the right tools I could purchase for optimal safety.
Of course, I wear protective gloves and goggles, but sometimes, that isn't enough. Fortunately, I came across a fascinating YouTube video about an innovative tool known as SawStop. I instantly began my research to find out if it would be suitable for my DIY work.
Hi! I'm Stacy. Today, I will tell you everything you need to know about SawStop. I hope it will help keep you safe, as it has helped me.
So, without further ado, let's begin!
All About The SawStop
What Is A SawStop?
Before I dive into the question - how does SawStop work, I decided to introduce the product to those who don't know about it.
SawStop is a brand of table saws manufactured in Oregon, US. Founded in the year 2000, this saw has a unique patented technology that automatically stops the saw blade when it comes in contact with skin. This technology was designed after several table saw users had unfortunate accidents over the years.
In fact, it is reported that the most number of finger-related accidents and injuries occur due to the improper use of table saws. Even with adequate protective gear, table saws can be extremely hazardous.
After going through several reports and upon my husband's insistence, I decided to research the SawStop. Here is everything I found.
How Does A SawStop Work?
The SawStop features a patented blade technology that carries an electrical signal. This signal is designed to make the blade stop instantly (in less than five milliseconds) when it comes in contact with skin. This can prevent accidents related to table saws, significantly reducing the number of susceptible users.
So, how does the blade stop?
Well, the angular momentum of the blade causes it to retract into the table. This automatically ensures that your skin does not come in contact with the running blade while allowing it to come to a stop.
The motor to the saw is also turned off automatically. Once you are free from danger, reset the device and replace the blade to resume working.
How Can You Reset The SawStop?
The SawStop features an all-in-one blade and brake combo. Although it may look intimidating, removing it and resetting the system is extremely straightforward.
Begin by removing the all-in-one blade and brake combo. You don't need any special tools to do this, and the entire process takes less than five minutes. Remove the blade and the brake cartridge and replace it with a new one. Fortunately, these items are readily available at your local store or online.
As soon as you replace it, the saw will be operational once again.
Are There Any Limitations To The SawStop?
Like any product or tool, the SawStop has its limitations. Before purchasing it and beginning work, it is vital to learn about its limitations so you can prevent injury. Here are some of the most important things you need to know.
1. Activation Of The Brake System
A crucial feature to know is that every time you activate the brake system, the blade of the SawStop is damaged. This is because the system forces the blade to retract within the saw while tripping the brake activation system, thereby rendering it useless.
As such, I recommend purchasing a few extra blades and brake activation systems and keeping them handy. This way, you can reset the device and resume working in case you trip the system.
2. Does Not Work On Green Wood Or Wet Timber
One of the most challenging limitations of the SawStop is that you cannot use it to cut very green or wet wood. That said, the device works efficiently on most wet woods without issue.
However, if the wood is pressure treated or wet enough to spray a mist, the brake system is prone to activation, thus tripping the system.
Fortunately, I have found a way to test whether you can use the SawStop on specific wet timber. To test the conductive ability of the wood, make small test cuts on it while activating the Bypass Mode.
Keep an eye on the red light on the control box of the SawStop. This light will indicate whether or not the wood is conductive enough to trip the braking system. If not, you can use the device to cut wet timber without any hassles.
3. Cannot Be Fitted Into Existing Table Saws
Another limitation of the SawStop technology is that it is impossible to retrofit it into existing table saws. If you want to use the patented technology and safety features of the saw, you have no choice but to purchase a SawStop. Of course, I highly recommend purchasing one because of how reliable and efficient it is.
4. Can It Prevent Injury Entirely?
In most cases, if your finger comes in contact with the fast-spinning blade, you may end up with a minor cut. However, the braking system effectively prevents major accidents.
- Powder coated steel construction
- Stamped steel support plate
- Three roller bars
- SawStop's patented Safety System stops on contact with skin.
- Portable Durability: Heavy-duty construction that's built to last and provides the stability you need for smooth cuts on the job site.
- Rack & Pinion Fence: Easy to adjust or remove and always square, the rack & pinion fence has built-in high and low shelf to support all types of cuts.
Summing It Up
Professionals as well as DIY-ers who are interested in working with power tools should consider the StopSaw. Adding this tool to your essentials can help prevent major injuries. Moreover, it is extremely straightforward, convenient, and easy to use.
Replacing the all-in-one brake and blade combo is also easy – it doesn’t take more than a few minutes. That being said, I recommend considering the limitations of the device before using it for specific tasks – such as cutting very wet timber and green wood.
Let me know what you think and whether you have decided to purchase the SawStop or not. Stay tuned for more guides and reviews!