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Noise management data sheets: mitre saw

Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Maintenance
  3. Noise control
  4. Operator control
  5. Alternatives

1. Introduction

Mitre saws are used in a crosscut action for cutting 45 angles. Due to the type of motors used and the standard blades, noise levels produced by the tool often exceed 100dB(A). Hearing protection is required when using the tool.

2. Maintenance

  • Most Mitre Saws are fitted with high revving brush type electric motors.
  • This type of motor is prone to wear in the main shaft bearings, armature and brushes resulting in increased noise levels.
  • Have the tool serviced if older than 3 years old or used on a regular basis, paying special attention to the bearings and associated parts.
  • Rattling covers or parts should be tightened.
  • Blades should be kept sharp and replaced when wear exceeds manufacturer's limits. 

3. Noise control

  • Use quieter blades
  • Use saw away from main work areas, or perform sawing operations in an isolated room.
  • If the mitre saw is used in a fixed location, it may be possible to construct a partial enclosure over the saw.
  • An enclosure should be constructed from 19 mm chipboard lined with 50 mm semi rigid fibreglass insulation (which should have a perforated foil covering). This will reduce the noise hazard radius of the tool, but the noise in the direct field of the tool (directly in front) will roughly be the same. 

4. Operator control

  • Feed blade in to the material gently, letting the blade cut at its own speed. Hold the timber firmly in position against the backing plate. Use gentle pressure and allow the blade more time to cut. This also extends blade life.
  • If the noise level of the saw is known, schedule work so as not to exceed the daily noise exposure standard.

5. Alternatives

  • For large-scale production work, larger Mitre Saws with induction type motors are preferred. This type of motor is physically larger but is quieter in operation. If the Mitre Saw is used for simple docking work, that work may be performed on a band saw or tabletop circular saw.
  • If the noise levels produced by the saw are less on softwoods than hardwoods, use softwoods if practicable.

Adapted from the Noise Control Manual for Schools with the permission of the Education Department of Western Australia. 

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