As a professional woodworker, I know how important a good table saw fence is in achieving accurate cuts and smooth finishes. The material used for the fence is a crucial factor in its performance and longevity.
There are several materials commonly used for table saw fences, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. One of the most popular materials is aluminium. Aluminium fences are lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. They provide a smooth sliding action, allowing for precise adjustments. However, aluminium fences can be quite expensive compared to other options.
Another commonly used material is steel. Steel fences are sturdy and provide excellent stability and support. They are also resistant to warping and bending, ensuring consistent and accurate cuts. However, steel fences can be heavy and cumbersome to adjust, and they may require regular maintenance to prevent rusting.
Plastic is another option for table saw fences. Plastic fences are lightweight and affordable, making them a popular choice for hobbyists and DIYers. They are easy to install and adjust, and they require minimal maintenance. However, plastic fences may not be as durable as aluminium or steel, and they may not provide the same level of stability and accuracy.
Ultimately, the best material for a table saw fence depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider factors such as durability, weight, stability, and ease of adjustment when choosing the material for your table saw fence. Remember to also take into account the type of projects you will be working on and the level of precision required. With the right material, you can ensure that your table saw fence will provide consistent and accurate cuts for years to come.
Choosing the Best Material for Your Table Saw Fence
When it comes to choosing the best material for your table saw fence, there are a few important factors to consider. The material you select will have a significant impact on the overall performance and durability of your fence, so it’s crucial to make a well-informed decision.
Steel: One of the most popular materials for table saw fences is steel. Steel is known for its strength and durability, making it an excellent option for heavy-duty use. It provides a sturdy and stable surface for guiding your workpieces, ensuring precise cuts every time. Additionally, steel fences are resistant to warping and bending, making them a long-lasting and reliable choice.
Aluminum: Another common material for table saw fences is aluminum. Aluminum offers a lightweight yet sturdy construction, making it easy to handle and install. It is also known for its resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring that your fence will remain in good condition even with frequent use. Aluminum fences can be an excellent choice for both hobbyist woodworkers and professionals looking for a reliable and cost-effective option.
- Polymer: For those looking for a more affordable option, polymer fences may be worth considering. Polymer is a synthetic material that offers excellent durability and resistance to impact. It is also resistant to warping and shrinking, making it a reliable choice for accurate cuts. Additionally, polymer fences are often adjustable, allowing you to customize the fence to your specific needs.
- Wood: Wood fences can provide a classic and traditional look to your table saw. They are often made from hardwoods like maple, which offers excellent stability and durability. However, wood fences may require more maintenance compared to other materials, as they are more susceptible to warping and moisture damage. Regular inspection and proper sealing can help extend the lifespan of a wood fence.
In conclusion, the best material for your table saw fence will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Steel and aluminum are reliable choices for their strength and durability, while polymer offers a more affordable option without sacrificing performance. Wood fences can provide a classic aesthetic but require more maintenance. Consider your budget, intended use, and desired aesthetics to make a well-informed decision for your table saw fence material.
Factors to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best material for a table saw fence, there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration. These factors are important to ensure that the fence is durable, accurate, and easy to use.
One of the most important factors to consider is the material’s durability. The fence should be made from a sturdy material that can withstand the frequent use and pressure that comes with cutting different types of wood. A durable fence will ensure that it remains in good condition for a long time and can handle heavy-duty tasks without bending or warping.
Another factor to consider is the material’s accuracy. The fence plays a crucial role in ensuring precise and accurate cuts. It should be straight and rigid, allowing for precise positioning and reducing the risk of mistakes or inaccuracies. The material should also have a smooth surface that allows the wood to glide smoothly during the cutting process, further enhancing accuracy.
Additionally, ease of use is an important factor to consider. The material should be lightweight yet strong, making it easy to handle and adjust. It should also have clear markings and measurements that are easy to read and understand, enabling quick and precise adjustments. A user-friendly fence will make the woodworking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Considering these factors will help you choose the best material for your table saw fence, ensuring that it meets your needs and provides the necessary stability, accuracy, and ease of use for your woodworking projects.
Aluminium: A Sturdy and Lightweight Material for Table Saw Fences
When it comes to choosing the best material for a table saw fence, aluminium is a top option that should not be overlooked. As someone who has personally worked with various table saw fences, I can confidently say that aluminium delivers a winning combination of strength and lightweight construction that makes it an ideal choice.
Strength: One of the biggest advantages of aluminium is its exceptional strength. Despite being lightweight, this material offers high durability and rigidity, ensuring that the fence remains sturdy and stable during use. Whether you’re working with heavy-duty materials or making precision cuts, an aluminium table saw fence will provide the strength needed to maintain accuracy and stability.
Lightweight: Unlike other materials such as steel or iron, aluminium is incredibly lightweight. This makes it easy to handle and maneuver when installing or adjusting the fence on your table saw. The lightweight nature of aluminium also means less strain on your table saw’s motor, allowing it to operate at peak performance without unnecessary stress.
Additionally, aluminium boasts excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity and durability of your table saw fence. It can withstand the rigors of regular use in various woodworking projects, making it an excellent investment for both professional woodworkers and hobbyists.
In conclusion, aluminium is a standout option when it comes to choosing the best material for a table saw fence. Its exceptional strength and lightweight nature make it an ideal choice for ensuring stability, accuracy, and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a woodworking enthusiast, an aluminium table saw fence will undoubtedly enhance your woodworking experience.
Steel
As a professional woodworker, I believe that steel is the best material for a table saw fence. Steel is known for its strength, durability, and stability, making it the ideal choice for a reliable and long-lasting fence. Unlike other materials, steel can withstand the high pressure and vibrations that occur during cutting, ensuring accurate and precise cuts every time.
One of the main advantages of a steel table saw fence is its rigidity. Steel is a rigid material that doesn’t flex or warp under pressure, providing a stable and solid surface for guiding the wood through the saw. This rigidity is crucial for achieving straight and consistent cuts, especially when working with large and heavy pieces of wood.
Phenolic
Phenolic is a popular material for table saw fences due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is made by layering resin-saturated paper or fabric and then applying heat and pressure to create a solid and dense material. The resulting phenolic board is smooth, slick, and provides a low-friction surface for wood to glide across, making it ideal for ripping and cross-cutting operations.
One of the key advantages of phenolic is its dimensional stability. It is not affected by changes in temperature or humidity, ensuring that the fence stays true and accurate over time. This stability also makes it resistant to warping, ensuring a consistent and reliable performance.
Additionally, phenolic is known for its high strength and impact resistance. It can withstand the pressure and force exerted during heavy-duty cuts without bending or flexing. This makes it a reliable choice for professional woodworkers or those working with heavy materials.
The smooth surface of phenolic also makes it easy to clean and maintain. It resists moisture, oils, and chemicals, reducing the likelihood of staining or damage. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the phenolic fence in top condition.
Overall, phenolic is an excellent choice for a table saw fence due to its durability, dimensional stability, strength, and low-friction surface. Woodworkers can rely on phenolic to provide precise and consistent cuts, making it a worthy investment for any workshop.
10 Best Material For Table Saw Fence
Delta, 36-T30T3, 30 in. DELTA® T3 Fence System
Features
| Part Number | 36-T30T3 |
| Model | 36-T30T3 |
| Warranty | 2 Year |
| Edition | TOOLS |
- One piece square tubular rail. Max Rip to Left of Blade-13-1/2 inch, Max Rip to right of Blade- 30 inch. Length: Fence 37 inch, Rail 57-1/2 inch. Height of the Fence is 2-1/2"
- Mounting design attaches to Delta table saws. This includes fence, steel guide tub with scale, front support rail One, rear support rail One and mounting hardware
- Three-point locking system with twin hairline pointers to assure fence is parallel to blade and accurate to within 1/64 of an inch (0. 4mm)
- Easy-gliding, steel tube fence body to handle Quick, precision ripping, and square cuts
- Fence securely clamps to front tube and hooks over rear rail to allow for fence attachments
BOW Products 46” XT XTENDER Fence - T-Track Table Fence System with Multiple T-Slots for Woodworking Accessories - Fits Portable Table Saws, Cabinet Saws,...
Features
| Part Number | XT546 |
| Model | XT546 |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 46-Inch |
- Most Versatile Add-On Fence: XT XTENDER 46” Fence stands 5” tall, includes three T-slots along the top for feed control accessories, milled clamp attach slots for multi-position set up, special slot to add BOW Feed Supports accessory, and a slot for attaching to Delta UniFence and Harvey fences. Robust Aluminum extrusion with anodized finish and 3 sizes for all your needs. Use with XT Feed Supports to extend smaller tabletops and improve stability, cut quality, feed control and safety.
- Extend Fence and Table Surface: XT XTENDER Fence works in tandem with optional XT Feed Support Accessory. Bow Feed Supports attach to the Fence and function as a shelf extending the table surface for infeed and/or outfeed. Transform the smaller tabletops by extending feed support and control over a wider area. The 46” XTENDER Fence is perfect for extending small Portable jobsite saws, benchtop saws or bandsaws. Improves safety as wood is easier to control and kept square to the blade.
- Fast Set Up: XTENDER Fence attaches and detaches from your existing fence in seconds with T-Track Clamps (Required; Sold Separately. Part # XT2). Bow XT T-Track clamps are designed to fit most portable saws, bench top saws, bandsaw, and full cabinet saw fences. Fast Set up ensures convenience to use XTENDER when you need it. Includes special Slot for Delta UniFence and Harvey Fences for quick attach as well. (See kits below)
- Multi-Position Fence Placement: Milled Clamp Slots are located on the back of the XTENDER Fence and offer multiple positioning options in relation to your Saws fence. Ideal when using a fence longer than your table surface and paired with Bow Feed Support accessory (Part# XT1). Position XT XTENDER Fence forward for greater infeed control; position back for outfeed control; or center placement for infeed and outfeed control. Slots accept Bow XT T-Track Clamps.
- Add Bow Safety Accessories: Take full advantage of the Bow XTENDER Fence System. Three T-Slots on the face, Top and Back of the fence enable adding woodworking accessories like Bow FencePRO Featherboards, stops, etc. T-slots run the length of the fence and accept 5/16” or 1/4" T-bolts. Check out the kit options and make your saw safer with better control, better cuts and added stability when cutting longer boards. View our available bundles below.
Vega U50 Table Saw Fence System: 36-Inch Fence Bar, 50-Inch to Right
Features
| Part Number | U50 |
| Model | U50 |
- Table saw fence system fits a variety of saws; 2-1/2-inches fence height
- 36-inch fence bar (50 inches to right, 8 inches to left of blade); micro adjustment and auxiliary table support
- Steel construction; assembly required
- Table saw fence system; saw not included
- 38.4 pounds
Fulton Precision Miter Gauge with Aluminum Miter Fence with 45 Degree Angled Ends for Maximum Stock Support and a Repetitive Cut Flip Stop
Features
| Part Number | 11567 |
| Model | 11567 |
- The Fulton Miter Gauge is a high quality, well thought out and economical solution for your table saw cross cutting needs.The Aluminum Miter fence is equally well thought out with its 45 degree ends for unsurpassed workpiece support and its ability to mounted to most any miter gauge. Also included is a handy aluminum flip stop for repetitive angled cuts on your table saw. Together these three items are the perfect compliment to each other for your table saw cutting needs.
- The .200” thick, adjustable, solid aluminum head is machined with 13 positive stop holes. 1 hole is at 90 degrees while the 6 holes on both sides are at 22.5, 30, 45, 60, 67.5 and 90 degrees. The positive stops are perfect for many woodworking projects as they are the angles that are typically used.To adjust the head you simply loosen the post knob handle, pull the spring loaded indexing pin outward, rotate the head to the desired position, release the pin and lock into place.
- The head is mounted to a solid steel miter bar that measure 18” in length and is .354” thick by .730” wide. Standard miter slots are 3/4” x 3/8” with a 1/8” “T” slot (slight variances from brand to brand) running the length on the bottom of the slot. The steel miter bar is equipped with a metal, removable retaining disc that measures 7/8” in diameter and is just shy of 1/8” to fit into to the “T” slot to prevent accidental lifting when feeding your stock through.
- Made from a single piece of extruded aluminum, this precision miter gauge fence is not only durable, its accurate and saves setup time. The fence is designed to be used with most any miter gauge with its off-set mounting track on the back of the fence. The off-set track allows you to flip the fence for lower profile miter gauge mounts and flip back for standard height miter gauges. The fence can be mounted to older miter gauges by adding a wooden block mount with wooden screws if necessary.
- Both ends of the fence are cut at exactly 45 degrees. This allows you to position the fence extra close to the saw blade (with the power turned off) so you have even more control over the workpiece you are cutting. The fence comes with a flip stop that makes repetitive cuts a breeze. When not in use the flip stop can be flipped up and out of the way. Also include are two sticky back measuring tapes. 1 tape is left to right reading and the other is right to left reading.
BOW Products Ultimate Table Saw XTENDER & Safety Kit - Includes 46” XT XTENDER Fence, 2-XT1 Support Feeds, 2-XT2 T-Track Clamps, FP1 FeatherPRO Featherboard,...
- Complete Kit for Performance and Safety: This kit is the ultimate bundle for turning your small portable table saw or contractor saw into a full cabinet saw. The XTENDER Fence System with Support Feeds and Clamps extends the work surface. The added featherboards maximize safety and assist with precision cuts and smooth feeds.
- Includes Featherboards, Supports and Clamps: Bundle includes 2 FencePRO FP4 Fence Featherboards, 1 FeatherPRO Featherboard FP1, 2 XT1 Feed Supports, and 2 XT2 T-Track Clamps.
- Fast Set Up: XTENDER Fence attaches to or detaches from your existing fence in under 10 seconds. Multiple T-slots run the length of the fence and accept 5/16” or 1/4" t-bolts on the face, top and back of the fence.
- Multi-Position Set Ups: Milled slots are strategically located to offer multiple mounting positions to the fence. Position the XTENDER Fence forward to infeed control; Set up the XTENDER in back for outfeed control; or center the XTENDER for balance on both sides of the blade.
- Use with Most Fences and Accessories: The XTENDER Fence includes a special wide mounting slot for use with Delta UniFence or Harvey Fences. The T-slots on the face of the fence are ideal for other woodworking accessories like featherboards.
FAQ:
What is the best material for a table saw fence?
The best material for a table saw fence is usually a heavy-duty aluminum extrusion. It is durable, rigid, and resistant to warping.
Is a table saw fence made of steel a good option?
Yes, a table saw fence made of steel can also be a good option. Steel fences are strong and provide excellent stability.
Are wooden table saw fences a good choice?
Wooden table saw fences can work well if properly constructed and maintained. However, they may not be as durable or precise as metal fences.
Why is an aluminum extrusion fence considered the best?
An aluminum extrusion fence is considered the best due to its combination of strength, rigidity, and resistance to warping. It provides a reliable and precise cutting guide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best material for a table saw fence, there are various factors to consider. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Steel is strong and durable, but it can be expensive and may require regular maintenance. Aluminum is lightweight and easy to work with, but it may not be as durable as steel. Wood is a cost-effective option and can be easily customized, but it may not provide the same level of stability as metal options. Ultimately, the best material for a table saw fence will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
