Table saws are powerful tools that can make woodworking tasks much easier. However, they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. One important safety feature that should be installed on a table saw is a riving knife. A riving knife is a thin piece of metal that sits just behind the saw blade and prevents the wood from binding or kicking back. While many table saws come with a riving knife, some older or less expensive models do not. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own riving knife for a table saw.
Before we begin, it is important to note that making a riving knife for your table saw should only be done if you have experience working with tools and feel confident in your abilities. If you are unsure or uncomfortable, it is best to seek assistance from a professional or purchase a compatible riving knife for your specific table saw model.
The first step in making a riving knife is to measure the width and thickness of the slot in the table saw’s throat plate. This will ensure that the riving knife fits securely and remains in place during use. Once you have these measurements, you can obtain a piece of flat steel stock that matches the dimensions. It is recommended to use a steel stock that is at least 3mm thick to ensure durability and stability.
After obtaining the steel stock, use a ruler and a marker to mark the width and length of the riving knife on the metal. It is essential to make precise and straight marks to ensure accuracy during cutting. Once marked, use a metal cutting tool, such as a hacksaw or a bandsaw, to carefully cut along the marked lines. Take your time and make slow, steady cuts to avoid any mistakes or accidents.
Once the riving knife has been cut to size, use a file or sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or burrs. This will prevent any injuries while handling the riving knife. Additionally, rounding off the corners of the riving knife can help reduce the risk of injury if accidental contact occurs. Finally, check the fit of the riving knife in the table saw’s throat plate slot. It should slide in easily but fit snugly.
With your homemade riving knife now ready, you can install it in your table saw and enjoy improved safety and functionality. Always remember to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and gloves, when operating a table saw or any other power tool. Safety should always be the top priority in any woodworking project.
What is a riving knife?
A riving knife is a safety device that is used on a table saw to help prevent kickback and promote safer cutting. It is a thin, flat, and metal plate that is positioned just behind the saw blade, in line with the blade’s path of travel. The purpose of a riving knife is to help keep the kerf of the cut open, which helps to prevent the stock from pinching against the back of the saw blade and causing kickback.
The riving knife is usually mounted on the same arbor as the saw blade so that it moves up and down with the blade during adjustments. It is lower than the top of the saw blade but higher than the cutting edge, ensuring that it remains in line with the blade’s path of travel. This allows the riving knife to maintain contact with the stock throughout the entire cut, even as the blade moves up and down.
Unlike a splitter, which is a similar device, a riving knife is designed to move with the blade, so it remains in the correct position regardless of the height or angle adjustments. This allows for more precise cutting and helps to prevent kickback, which can occur when the stock twists or closes in on the back of the blade during a cut.
Overall, a riving knife is an essential safety feature for table saws, providing added protection for woodworkers during cutting operations. Its main purpose is to prevent kickback and promote safer cutting by helping to keep the kerf open and preventing the stock from pinching against the back of the saw blade.
Why is a riving knife important?
A riving knife is an essential safety feature for a table saw, providing numerous benefits and preventing potential accidents. It is a thin, curved piece of metal that is mounted directly behind the cutting blade of a table saw. Here are some reasons why a riving knife is crucial:
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1. Injury prevention: A riving knife helps prevent kickback, which occurs when the wood being cut binds and is propelled back toward the operator. Kickback is a common cause of table saw accidents and can result in severe injuries. The presence of a riving knife reduces the likelihood of kickback by keeping the kerf from closing up and binding the blade. |
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2. Improved stability: By maintaining an open kerf, a riving knife helps in guiding the workpiece through the saw. This provides better stability while cutting and reduces the chances of the wood twisting or pinching against the blade, leading to a more accurate cutting process. |
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3. Versatility: A riving knife can be adjusted to different blade heights, allowing it to be used with various saw setups. This flexibility makes it compatible with different cutting operations, including through cuts, ripping, and dado cuts. |
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4. Legal compliance: In some regions, the use of a riving knife is required by law for table saws. It is crucial to understand and comply with the safety regulations and standards of the specific jurisdiction to ensure a safe and legal work environment. |
Overall, a riving knife is an indispensable accessory for a table saw, providing increased safety, stability, and versatility. It ensures that woodworkers can work confidently by reducing the risk of accidents and promoting precise, accurate cuts.
Materials and tools needed
Before you begin making a riving knife for your table saw, you will need to gather the following materials and tools:
Materials:
- A piece of steel or aluminum plate (around 1/8 inch thick)
- Bolts, nuts, and washers
- Clamps
Tools:
- Protective gloves and goggles
- Measuring tape
- Marker or pencil
- Hacksaw or reciprocating saw
- Drill and drill bits
- File or grinder
- Spanner or wrench
Ensure that you have all the materials and tools ready before you start the process of making your riving knife. It is important to use the appropriate safety gear and take necessary precautions while working with these tools.
Steps to make a riving knife
To make a riving knife for your table saw, follow these steps:
1. Measure the thickness of the saw blade: Use a caliper or ruler to measure the thickness of the blade. This measurement is important to ensure the riving knife fits snugly without interfering with the blade’s movement.
2. Choose a suitable material: Select a material that is strong and rigid enough to serve as a riving knife. Common options include hardwood, plywood, or metal.
3. Prepare the material: Cut the material to the desired size and shape for the riving knife. Make sure it is slightly narrower than the width of the saw blade to allow for smooth movement.
4. Drill attachment holes: Use a drill to create holes on the riving knife’s base. These holes will be used to attach it to the saw’s arbor assembly. Ensure they line up with the mounting points on the saw’s throat plate.
5. Shape and smooth the edges: Use sandpaper or a file to shape the edges of the riving knife and remove any rough spots. This will prevent any splintering or snagging on the workpiece during use.
6. Attach the riving knife: Place the riving knife onto the saw’s throat plate and align the attachment holes with the mounting points. Secure it in place using appropriate screws or bolts.
7. Test and adjust: Turn on the table saw and make test cuts to ensure the riving knife functions properly. Check that it maintains a constant distance from the blade and keeps the workpiece from pinching or binding.
8. Make any necessary modifications: If the riving knife requires further adjustments, such as height or angle changes, make the appropriate modifications using tools and techniques recommended by the saw’s manufacturer.
By following these steps, you can easily make a riving knife for your table saw, enhancing safety and improving the quality of your cuts.
