I have to cut some very expensive cabinet grade plywood on my Dewalt table saw. I have 60 and 90 tooth carbide blades that are new but I have been rethinking about what depth to use to minimize tear-out on my cuts. I would normally set the blade to protrude about 1/4 to 1/2 inch above the material but when I couldn’t sleep last night I wondered if it would be better to set the blade at its maximum height. I appreciate any thoughts or suggestions you guys may have.
Thanks!
Ed Kirkpatrick
Adamstown, MD
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
In this FHB Podcast segment, the crew offers expert advice on insulating an old home and finding the right contractor to do the job.
Featured Video
Builder’s Advocate: An Interview With ViewrailHighlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
I've always been told to raise the blade enough to where the cutting is occurring perpendicular to the front edge of the wood, in other words...high enough to be as square as possible to the face of the plywood without adding an opportunity for too much wobble. When it's lower you're ripping from the bottom up, which can cause splintering. 80-90 tooth blade for sure.