What is Hacksaw?

Being part of the important hand tools used in the manufacturing workshop, hacksaws are known for cutting wood, plastic, metal, and other. Technicians must be included in a toolbox or a small garage shop.

A hacksaw is a fine-toothed saw, mainly used for cutting metal and wood, but called a bow saw in this aspect. The difference between a hacksaw and a saw is that a saw is designed for cutting through wood, whereas a hacksaw is designed for cutting through metal and plastic. Well, in this reading, we’ll explore what a hacksaw is, its applications, parts, types, and how to use it

Let’s Get Started!

Table of Contents

Hacksaws are fine-toothed saws, originally designed for cutting metal. They are handsaws with a C-shaped frame that helps keep the blade under tension. These hand tools are made of metal and can also be framed in a U-shape, leaving a space for a thin, wide blade to hold between its spigot (clips).

Hacksaws are hand tools used for cutting through materials, as they are a variant of the traditional handsaw typically used for cutting wood. Hacksaws are widely used in plumbing fields to cut pipes.

The hacksaw handle is either made of wood or plastic, and its frames are designed to be adjusted between 8-, 10-, or 12-inch blades as needed. Depending on the cut, hacksaw blades are 14-32 teeth per inch, as the denser teeth are suited to cutting smaller objects.

Hacksaws are designed with a handle for proper gripping while cutting, usually called a pistol grip. Additionally, pins secure the blade to the metal frame. This frame may be adjustable to accommodate different sizes of blades, while a screw is used to put the thin blade under tension.

Applications of Hacksaws

Hacksaws are a useful tool in woodworking, particularly for cutting plastic and metal. They are faster than powered saws and are suitable for various tasks such as cutting galvanized or steel pipes, bar stock, plumbing, and tough metals like wrought iron and cast iron. You can also use hacksaws in construction to cut rebar and trim bolts and screws.

Although not the most suitable saw for woodworking, hacksaws are useful for cutting large slabs of frozen meat. Despite their initial lack of smooth cutting, advancements in technology have led to precision cutting. Today, we use reciprocating saws for metal parts, but we still use hacksaws for hand jobs that require more delicate shapes.

Major Parts and Diagram of Hacksaws

The parts of a hacksaw include a D-handle, Tensioner Knob, Blade Tensioner, Blade pins, Blade and Frame. Some hacksaws have adjustable frame and a pistol-grip handle.

A hacksaw frame is a C-shaped metal tool with a handle, containing a hacksaw blade. The blade, a thin metal band, is typically 6 to 12 inches long and mounted on pins.

The frame is used to hold the blade, which is difficult to sharpen after dulling. The blade is typically replaced with a new one after being drawn tight in the frame. Blades with more teeth per inch are used for cutting finer materials.

Diagram of Hacksaw

Types of Hacksaw

Hacksaws are versatile tools used in various industries, with different types available in different sizes and shapes. Full-sized hacksaws are large, multipurpose tools with 12-18 teeth per inch, while junior hacksaws are smaller, portable tools for space-constrained or fine cutting.

Mini hacksaws are lightweight, portable tools with small D frames and long ergonomic handles. Power hacksaws, powered by electric motors, can be stationary or portable and can raise their blades automatically on the return stroke.

Some types can hold both 10-in. and 12-in. blades, while others have 6-in. options. Handle styles vary, with compact/mini hacksaws consisting of a handle and a blade. Tensioner mechanisms also vary, with some capable of pivoting blades to a 45° angle for flush cuts.

Below are the different kinds of hacksaw blades:

A hacksaw blade is a tool used for cutting various materials, including steel, copper, aluminum, and brass. It has a blade size of 14-18 teeth per inch, suitable for mild steel, copper, aluminum, and brass. Medium-grade blades cut 20–24 teeth per inch and are suitable for cast iron, tool steel, aluminum, brass, and high-carbon steel.

Fine-grade blades cut 24–30 teeth per inch and are suitable for thin pipes, sheets, and tubes. Superfine-grade blades have 30–32 teeth per inch for exceptionally solid metals and thin metal sheets.

Blades are hardened and tempered in two processes: all-hard, which hardens and tempers only the ends with holes, and flexible, which hardens and tempers only the cutting teeth and nearby parts, reducing the risk of breaking during shocks.

How to Use and Maintain Hacksaws

Maintaining the hacksaw involves using the appropriate blade, specifically a coping saw blade. Replace blades when the tooth wears, and ensure it is clean and kept in the right place after usage. Hacksaws can only be used safely if they are noted and used correctly. In a hacksaw, the adjuster should be tightened always only if an adjustment will be made.

When installing a blade, keep the adjuster on until slack, then insert the blade holes into the spigots. Finally, ensure the teeth are pointed away from the handle.

In addition, on how to safely use a hacksaw, materials should be firmly placed on a bench vice. Make sure the saw’s central teeth are placed on the material to be cut and push the saw in a short stroke.

A few strokes of the cut before the object is finally down, ensure the object is held to avoid falling There are some other lookalike saws like the ripsaw, crosscut saw, backsaw, keyhole saw, and coping saw.

How to Change Hacksaw Blade

The straightforward process of changing a hacksaw blade involves using the fasten-release mechanism or turning the wing nut to loosen the current blade. Carefully slide out the current blade, insert the new blade onto the retaining pins within the handle, tighten the wing nut, or reapply the fasten-release mechanism. Conduct a test cut on scrap metal to ensure the new blade is secure.

Safety Precautions While using Hacksaws

Put on protective goggles and the proper work gloves.
When sawing, be mindful of burrs and sharp edges.
The hacksaw blade should be chosen based on the type of metal it will be used on.
Make sure the blade’s teeth will cut through metal when it is moved forward when attaching it to the frame.
The task must be held in the vise so that the cutting lines are easily seen.
The blade should be placed on the marking line before starting a cut.

Conclusion

The hacksaw is a fundamental cutting tool designed for precision and efficiency, especially when working with metals, plastics, and even some types of wood. With its fine-toothed blade and sturdy frame, it allows users to make clean and controlled cuts. Knowing how to select the right blade and properly use a hacksaw can make a significant difference in the quality of your work and extend the tool’s life.

FAQs on Hacksaw

What is a hacksaw used for?

A hacksaw is mainly used for cutting metal, but it can also be used on plastic and some softer woods with the correct blade.

Can hacksaw blades be replaced?

Yes, hacksaw blades are replaceable. They come in different sizes and tooth counts to suit different materials and cutting needs.

How do I choose the right hacksaw blade?

Select the blade based on the material: fine-toothed blades (24–32 teeth per inch) are ideal for thin metals, while coarse-toothed blades (14–18 TPI) work better for thicker materials.

Why does my hacksaw blade keep breaking?

Common reasons include using the wrong blade for the material, applying too much pressure, or improper blade tension.

Can a hacksaw cut hardened steel?

Standard hacksaw blades may struggle with hardened steel. Special high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide blades are recommended for very hard materials.

How do I maintain a hacksaw?

Keep the frame clean, ensure correct blade tension, replace dull blades promptly, and store it in a dry place to prevent rust.

Share with others!

What is Hacksaw? – Its Applications & How to Use it