When Chain Saw Sharpening Is Indicated
As is the case with most things in this world, there are certain telltale signs that are exhibited when processes are not functioning well. For example in our own bodies there are certain indications or symptoms that reflect something abnormal is happening within us. Those symptoms could include a fever, rash, cough, loss of weight, etc.
The same can also be true of inanimate objects. For example if our power tools begin to make unusual noises or when being used there are metal filings that are left after their use; these may be indicators of something seriously going wrong with those tools.
Another indication of tools not functioning well is when their performance is substandard. An example of a tool that that may need attention is a chain saw that fails to cut the wood properly and requires a great deal of effort. If this is the case, chain saw sharpening may be indicated.
A few of those indicators, that may reflect that chain saw sharpening is indicated, are the feel of the teeth, whether the chainsaw grabs the wood being sawed, the residue created and the effort and time placed into accomplishing the chore.
Feel
One of the best ways to determine whether chain saw sharpening is indicated is by feeling the teeth of the chainsaw. This can be accomplished by first securing the chain saw. Once the engine has been shut down feel the teeth of the chain saw. This should be done very carefully so as to avoid injury. When you feel the teeth they should feel sharp and exact.
Grabbing Feel
The chain saw performs by grabbing and digging into the wood. This performance is exhibited in that when biting into the wood the chain saw gives the feel of grabbing the wood. When the chain saw ceases to perform in this manner, it may be that chain saw sharpening is indicated.
Wood Residue
Whenever sawing action is performed on wood there is wood residue left behind. An example of this is the remaining saw dust when a hand or power saw is used to cut wood.
Utilization of a chain saw is no different. There is wood residue created when the chain saw is used and this residue can be inspected to determine the sharpness of the chain saw's teeth. A sharp chain saw will leave behind chips that can be as much as two to three inches in length. An unsharpened chain saw will leave wood residue behind that is similar in texture to sawdust.
Effort & Time
One of the strongest indicators that chain saw sharpening is indicated is the effort and time required to complete your project using a chain saw. The benefit of a chain saw is to make the cutting of wood as effortless as possible and in a timely fashion. If the process requires more time and a great amount of your strength is needed to push down on the saw to get the job accomplished, then chain saw sharpening may be indicated.
