Cutting Through the Metal | Guide to Using a Metal Cutting Circular Saw Blade

A metal cutting blade for a circular saw is a specialized tool designed to cut through various metals. It is crucial in metalworking projects, from crafting intricate metal designs to cutting through thick steel sheets.

While using a circular saw to cut metal, you must use a metal cutting blade specifically designed for this objective. Attempting to cut metal with a regular saw blade can be dangerous and damage both the saw and the blade.

Metal cutting blades for circular saws are made of solid and durable materials such as carbide or high-speed steel, and they have teeth arranged in a way that creates a smooth and precise cut without burrs or rough edges. 

Features of metal cutting blades of circular saw

Tooth Material

A metal cutting blade’s teeth are made of solid and durable materials such as carbide or high-speed steel. These materials can withstand the heat generated during cutting and resist wear and tear.

Tooth Arrangement

The teeth of a metal cutting blade are arranged to create a smooth and precise cut without burrs or rough edges. The tooth pattern is designed to provide a continuous cutting action and clear out chips and debris from the cutting path.

Number of Teeth

Metal cutting blades come in different tooth configurations, with varying numbers of teeth suitable for cutting different metal thicknesses. Blades with fewer teeth are better for cutting thicker metals, while blades with more teeth are ideal for thinner metals.

Blade size

Metal cutting blades come in different sizes, depending on the size of the saw and the cutting needs. The size must match the saw to ensure secure cutting.

Blade coating

5. Blade Coating Some metal cutting blades have a coating that reduces friction and heat buildup during cutting. This layer can extend the life of the blade and enhance cutting performance.

By choosing the right blade and following best practices, you can ensure precise and efficient metal cutting for your projects.

What kind of circular saw blade cuts metal?

Metal cutting blades for circular saws come in different sizes and types, and they are made of solid and durable materials such as carbide or high-speed steel.

The teeth on the blades are arranged to create a smooth and precise cut without burrs or rough edges, and they are designed to withstand the high heat generated during the cutting process.

Some common types of metal cutting blades for circular saws include:

Metal Cutting Diamond Blade

The Extreme Metal Cutting Diamond Blade uses diamond particles that are bonded to the blade using a vacuum-brazing technology. The blade’s 7-inch diameter and 7/8″ arbor size allow it to be used with various metal cutting saws, while the 5/8″ bushing ensures that the blade stays securely in place during use and doesn’t wobble or slip.

Carbide-tipped blades

Carbide-tipped blades are designed with sharp carbide teeth bonded to the blade. These teeth are rugged and can withstand the heat of cutting metal. Carbide-tipped blades are usually used for cutting non-ferrous metals like aluminum, copper, brass, and bronze, as well as softer ferrous metals such as steel and iron. They are known for their long lifespan and ability to cut through various materials quickly and efficiently.

High-speed steel blades

High-speed steel (HSS) blades are designed with teeth made from high-speed steel, a special alloy that can withstand high temperatures generated during metal cutting. High-speed steel blades can cut ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including steel, aluminum, and brass.

How many teeth per inch to cut metal?

The number of teeth per inch (TPI) needed to cut metal with a circular saw depends on the thickness and type of metal being cut and the type of blade used. 

Generally, a lower TPI blade is used for thicker metal, and a higher TPI blade is used for thinner metal. For example, a 24 TPI blade may be suitable for cutting thin sheet metal, while a 14 TPI blade may be more appropriate for cutting thicker metal pipes or bars.

How many cuts are sufficient to cut metal with a circular saw? 

The number of cuts required to cut metal with a circular saw depends on the thickness and kind of metal being cut, the cut deepness, and the blade’s diameter.

Multiple passes may be required to cut through thicker metal, especially using a smaller-diameter blade. For example, if you are cutting a 1-inch-thick metal bar with a 7 1/4-inch diameter blade, you may need to make several passes at decreasing depths to cut.

It’s important to avoid forcing the saw blade through the metal as this can generate overheating and premature wear. Instead, use a steady and controlled cutting speed, allowing the blade to do the work and avoid putting excessive pressure on the saw.

Can we cut aluminum with the blades used to cut metal with a circular saw? 

Metal cutting blades for circular saws can be used to cut aluminum. However, selecting the appropriate blade type and teeth per inch (TPI) for the thickness and type of aluminum being cut is essential.

A blade with a higher TPI and a finer tooth geometry may be more suitable for thin aluminum sheets or plates. In comparison, thicker aluminum plates or extrusions may require a blade with a lower TPI and a more aggressive tooth geometry.

It’s also important to consider the type of blade material when cutting aluminum. Carbide-tipped blades are typically more suitable for cutting through aluminum than high-speed steel blades, as they are more durable and wear-resistant.

Why are circular saws best for cutting cut metal as compared to other tools?

Circular saws are often considered the best tool for cutting metal compared to other tools for several reasons. Circular saws have powerful motors allowing them to quickly and efficiently cut through metal.

They also have adjustable speed settings, which makes them suitable for cutting a range of metal thicknesses. Circular saw blades are designed specifically for metal cutting, with different blade types available to suit different materials and thicknesses.

Thirdly, circular saws are portable and easy to use, making them suitable for workshop and on-site metal-cutting applications. Lastly, circular saws provide a clean and precise cut, reducing the need for additional finishing work. Overall, circular saws offer a combination of power, versatility, and precision, making them an excellent choice for metal-cutting applications.