Panel Saws by Saw Trax

1.888.729.8729

Author: Matt Anton

Woodshop News Recommends SawTrax Panel Saws and Dollies

Posted on by Matt Anton

Woodshop News

Source:

https://www.woodshopnews.com/features/making-it-all-better

The secret is out! SawTrax delivers quality products made right here in the USA. Whether you are looking for value, or a quality of life improvement for your operations, SawTrax specializes in delivering panel saws, dollies and accessories to facilitate cutting and moving your materials so you can focus on productivity and growth.

 

Panel Saws

(cutting down on Saw Dust in your Shops)

“

Better Dust Control

Fine dust is a challenge in every shop. And while health is by far the greatest concern, woodshop dust also has many other negative effects that waste both money and time. The solution is to catch it where it’s born.

Woodshops create dust by either cutting or abrading. Cutting happens at saws, shapers, CNC routers, molders, drill presses – anywhere the shape of a part is changed. Abrasion occurs with portable sanders at the workbench, or with stationary profile machines and wide belt sanders, or during the finishing process as we sand between coats. Cutting produces fewer fine (small) and more gross (big) particles than abrading. The gross particles tend to settle close to the source, while the fines like to travel. Any air movement will carry them, and the causes can be anything from an open loading bay door to forced air heating and air conditioning, or ceiling fans, or even just employees and parts moving around the shop.”

 

Dollies

(heavy duty, tight turning radius)

” Saw Trax (sawtrax.com) makes a series of very clever carts that are highly maneuverable. They can carry large and heavy loads on a combination of pneumatic tires and casters.”

 

SawTrax Appreciates the Community:

We sincerely appreciate the mention and kind words. If you want to feature SawTrax on your blog or website please feel free to reach out via email: info@sawtrax.com. Happy customer? We would love to hear your feedback on a video testimonial. Can view current video testimonials here: https://www.youtube.com/@SawTrax/videos

Continue Reading

Fenestration and the Role of SawTrax Dollies in Glass Transportation

Posted on by Matt Anton
Fenestration Windows and Doors Dolly
Fenestration: windows and doors arranged on a building

Fenestration is a term that might not be familiar to everyone, but its products are used in almost every building around us. Derived from the Latin word “fenestra,” meaning “window,” fenestration refers to the arrangement, design, and construction of windows and doors in a building. As a key component of fenestration, glass plays a pivotal role in both aesthetics and functionality.

Glass, being fragile, requires meticulous care, especially during transportation. This is where SawTrax dollies come into play. In this blog post, we will delve into how SawTrax dollies are revolutionizing the transportation of glass, highlighting their benefits and features.

Benefits of Using SawTrax Dollies for Glass Transportation:

  • Safety: Glass is delicate. A slight mishandling can lead to cracks or complete breakage. SawTrax dollies are specifically designed to handle delicate materials such as glass. Their sturdy build ensures the glass is held firmly, reducing the risk of damage.
  • Efficiency: With SawTrax dollies, transporting large glass panels becomes less labor-intensive. Their designs accommodate various sizes and weights, allowing for the smooth movement of glass panels without strain.
  • Versatility: Beyond just glass, these dollies are versatile enough to handle other fenestration products like doors, frames, and even some hardware.
  • Cost-effective: By minimizing the risks of damage and increasing the efficiency of transportation, SawTrax dollies can result in significant cost savings in the long run. Damaged glass replacements can be expensive, both in terms of material cost and labor.

Features of SawTrax Dollies:

  • Robust Construction: Made with high-quality materials, SawTrax dollies are built to last. They are designed to withstand the weight and size of large glass panels, ensuring longevity.
  • Ergonomic Design: Ergonomics plays a vital role in the design of SawTrax dollies. Features such as easy-grip handles and smooth-rolling wheels ensure ease of maneuverability.
  • Adjustability: Some SawTrax dollies come with adjustable dividers or compartments, allowing users to transport multiple glass panels simultaneously without them touching each other.
  • Non-marking Wheels: The wheels on the dollies are designed to be non-marking, ensuring that floors remain scuff-free during the transportation process.

Why Choose SawTrax Dollies for Glass Transportation?

When it comes to transporting glass, the choice of equipment can make a world of difference. SawTrax dollies, with their specialized design and robust construction, offer an optimal solution for the fenestration industry. Their focus on safety, efficiency, and versatility makes them a top choice for professionals in the field.

Moreover, the reputation of the SawTrax brand, known for its innovation and quality, offers an additional layer of assurance. Whether you’re a fenestration professional or simply someone who occasionally deals with glass transportation, SawTrax dollies are a worthy investment for both peace of mind and practical utility.

In conclusion, as the fenestration industry continues to grow and evolve, the need for reliable tools and equipment becomes even more crucial. SawTrax dollies, with their outstanding benefits and features, stand out as a leading choice for glass transportation, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Continue Reading

What is a Panel Saw?

Posted on by Matt Anton

The Intricacies of the Panel Saw: More Than Just a Saw

The world of woodworking is vast and complex. It is brimming with tools and machinery, each designed with a specific purpose and function. Among the array of machinery sits the panel saw—a tool that many might overlook but plays a pivotal role in workshops and factories worldwide. Let’s dive deep into understanding what a panel saw is, its types, applications, and benefits.

Definition:

In its essence, a panel saw is a woodworking machine that is primarily used to cut large panels and sheets, such as plywood, MDF, melamine, or plastic. It provides accurate and straight cuts, ensuring that each piece is uniformly shaped and sized. Think of it as a larger, more specialized version of a table saw.

The Two Primary Types of Panel Saws

  1. Vertical Panel Saws: These saws hold the panel vertically. The sawing unit can move both horizontally and vertically, allowing for both rip (lengthwise) and cross (widthwise) cuts without having to move the workpiece. Vertical panel saws are ideal for workshops with limited floor space since they take up less room than their horizontal counterparts.
  2. Horizontal Panel Saws: The workpiece is laid flat (horizontally) on a table and is moved through a stationary blade or, in some designs, the blade moves through the stationary workpiece. This type is preferred for high-volume manufacturing because it’s generally faster and can sometimes incorporate automated features.

Benefits of Using a Panel Saw

  • Precision and Accuracy: One of the biggest advantages of a panel saw is its ability to make precise and accurate cuts. Its design minimizes errors and inconsistencies.
  • Efficiency: Especially in the case of horizontal panel saws, the process can be much faster than using handheld saws. They’re particularly efficient for businesses that handle large volumes of sheet materials.
  • Safety: Given that the material is held firmly in place, there’s reduced risk as compared to manually feeding a large panel through a smaller saw.
  • Versatility: While primarily designed for large sheets, panel saws can handle various materials and thicknesses with the right blade.

Applications of the Panel Saw

While most commonly associated with woodworking, panel saws are versatile and find use in various industries.

  • Cabinet Making: Ensuring uniform and straight panels for cabinets.
  • Sign Making: For businesses that produce large signage, panel saws can cut through materials like acrylic and aluminum composite.
  • Furniture Manufacturing: For everything from beds to tables and more.
  • Construction: Prefabricating components for installation.

Choosing the Right Panel Saw

If you’re considering adding a panel saw to your workshop, here are a few considerations:

  • Space: Vertical panel saws might be preferable for smaller workshops.
  • Volume: If you’re handling high volumes daily, consider a horizontal panel saw or one with automated features.
  • Material: Ensure that the saw you choose is suitable for the materials you work with most often.
  • Budget: Panel saws range from basic models to advanced ones with CNC capabilities. Decide what features you truly need and base your decision on that.

Woodworkers and Sign Shops Rely on Panel Saws Every Day

A panel saw might not be the first tool that comes to mind when one thinks of woodworking, but its value is undeniable. It streamlines processes, improves accuracy, and can be a game-changer for many businesses or enthusiasts. Whether you’re delving into woodworking or are a seasoned professional, understanding the capabilities and applications of tools like the panel saw is crucial in delivering top-notch results.

Continue Reading

Building a Panel Saw: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on by Matt Anton

Panel saws are indispensable tools for both amateur and professional woodworkers. They allow for efficient, accurate, and straight cuts on large panels without requiring expansive space. While you can buy them, building your panel saw with a kit, you can save you money and give you the satisfaction of crafting your own tool. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through building your very own panel saw.

Why Build a Panel Saw?

A custom-made panel saw offers several advantages:

  • Cost-effective: Building your own tool can be cheaper than buying a commercial unit.
  • Customization: Tailor it to fit the specific requirements of your workspace and your needs.
  • Skill Development: It’s an excellent project to enhance woodworking and engineering skills.

Materials and Tools Required

Materials:

  • Plywood or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): For the frame and base.
  • 2×4 lumber: For the frame.
  • Circular saw: This will be integrated into the panel saw setup.
  • Aluminum or steel angle: For guide rails.
  • T-track and t-bolts: For adjustments.
  • Wood screws and bolts.
  • Nylon rollers or bearings.
  • Piano hinge.

Tools:

  • Measuring tape.
  • Square.
  • Drill with bits.
  • Saw.
  • Screwdrivers.
  • Clamps.

Building Your Panel Saw

Step 1: Framework Construction

  • Start by building a rectangular frame using the 2×4 lumber. This will act as the primary structure holding everything together.
  • Add additional cross-members for stability.

Step 2: Base

  • Attach a plywood or MDF base to the bottom of your frame. This base will support the panel when making cuts.

Step 3: Mounting the Circular Saw

  • Attach the circular saw upside down to a piece of plywood, ensuring it’s square.
  • This plywood will act as the carriage that will slide up and down.
  • Install nylon rollers or bearings on the sides of the plywood carriage. This will facilitate a smooth vertical movement against the frame.

Step 4: Guide Rails

  • Attach aluminum or steel angles vertically on both sides of your frame. This will guide your saw carriage and maintain a straight cut.

Step 5: Horizontal Bar

  • Above your frame, attach a horizontal bar. The saw carriage will slide along this bar for horizontal cuts.
  • You can use a piano hinge to allow the bar to fold down when not in use.

Step 6: T-track Installation

  • Add a T-track on the frame where you want adjustability, such as for setting the height for horizontal cuts.
  • Using T-bolts, you can adjust and lock the saw carriage in place.

Step 7: Safety First

  • Ensure there’s a clear on/off switch for your circular saw.
  • Consider adding a safety shield over the saw blade.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Blade Selection: Use a high-quality blade suitable for plywood or the specific material you plan to cut.
  • Regular Maintenance: Keep your guide rails and rollers clean and free of sawdust. Lubricate the rollers periodically.
  • Safety: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when using your panel saw. Ensure the area behind the panel saw is clear before making cuts.

Whether You Buy it Or Build It – Panel Saws Increase Productivity

Building a panel saw is a fulfilling project that can be beneficial for any woodworking enthusiast. It not only saves money but also offers a chance to customize a tool to your specific needs. With proper maintenance and care, your DIY panel saw will serve you well for years to come. Happy building!

Continue Reading

How to Cut Paneling on a Table Saw: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on by Matt Anton

When it comes to woodworking, the table saw is one of the most essential tools in the workshop. It allows for precise and clean cuts, making it indispensable for a variety of tasks. One such task is cutting paneling. Whether you’re working on wall panels, decorative projects, or even cabinetry, ensuring that your paneling is cut cleanly and accurately is crucial. We recommend you check out the benefits of a vertical panel saw by SawTrax.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into 7 major steps and precautions necessary to cut paneling on a table saw, ensuring a smooth, splinter-free finish.

1. Safety First

Before diving into the process, it’s crucial to prioritize safety.

  • Wear Protective Gear: Ensure you have safety goggles, hearing protection, and a dust mask.
  • Keep the Workspace Clean: Sawdust can be slippery. Keep the floor and work area free of debris to prevent accidents.
  • Check Equipment: Before starting, make sure the table saw is in good working order and the blade is sharp and free from defects.

2. Choose the Right Blade

The blade you choose plays a significant role in the quality of your cut. For paneling, especially if it’s thin or made of delicate materials like veneer, a blade with more teeth – often called a “fine-toothed” or “crosscut” blade – is recommended. This ensures a smoother cut and reduces the chances of chipping.

3. Prepare the Paneling

Lay the paneling flat and mark your desired cut line using a straight edge and a pencil. For better visibility, you can use a chalk line.

4. Set Up the Saw

  • Adjust the Blade Height: Raise the saw blade so it’s about a half-inch higher than the thickness of the panel.
  • Use the Fence: The fence ensures a straight cut. Adjust it to the required width of the cut.

5. Support the Panel

Large panels can be unwieldy and may sag or shift while cutting. Use outfeed and infeed supports or enlist the help of a friend to manage the panel’s weight during the cut.

6. The Cutting Process

  • Begin with a ‘Scoring Cut’: Adjust the blade to just barely penetrate the panel’s surface. Push the panel through to score the cut line. This initial, shallow cut helps reduce splintering.
  • Complete the Cut: Adjust the blade back to its full height and then push the panel through, following the scored line. Use steady and even pressure, ensuring the panel remains flush against the fence.

7. Finishing Touches

Even with careful cutting, there might be minor imperfections or rough edges. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough spots and ensure your paneling looks professionally cut.

Tips and Tricks

  1. Prevent Tear-out: Place masking tape along the cut line before marking and cutting. This can reduce splintering on the top surface.
  2. Stay Safe: Never reach over the blade. Always stay to the side of the material being cut.
  3. Use a Push Stick: This keeps your hands away from the blade and gives better control when cutting smaller pieces.

Mastering Paneling is Critical for Master Wood Workers

Cutting paneling on a table saw requires precision, patience, and a focus on safety. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, you can achieve clean and accurate cuts, making your DIY projects look professional. Always remember, practice makes perfect. So, keep refining your skills and ensuring safety to achieve the best results. Happy woodworking!

Continue Reading