MIL Scroll Saw SOP

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Standard Operating Procedure

SAFETY: Safety glasses should be worn at all times when using this equipment. Long hair or other items that may get tangled should be removed or tied back. Keep hands away from the saw blade.

  1. The saw should be left unplugged, and should be unplugged as you check for startup.
  2. Clean off the cut platform of any debris.
  3. First test the blade is secured in the saw clamp. It should be stretched firmly between the two screw clamps, and there should be no bend in the blade. If there is a bend, the black knob above the blade can be turned to the left to tighten the blade.
  4. Assure you are wearing safety glasses. Also, look around and assure those in the area are following the rules on safety glasses and alert them to the fact that you will be using the saw.
  5. Assure you have all dangling clothing, long hair, ear phones or anything that could get caught up in the blade removed or tied back.
  6. Plug in the saw after first ensuring the red power switch on the top is off.
  7. Position your piece to be cut on the cut platform, keeping it away from the blade for now, and plan out your cut.
    1. Make sure your planned cut will not be hindered by objects around the saw and won’t cause you to turn the piece such that it would bump into items or your body.
    2. DO NOT plan a cut that would bring your fingers within 3 inches of the blade.
    3. DO NOT plan to push your piece towards the blade with a finger or thumb positioned such that, if you slipped, you could force your hand into the blade. Hands and fingers should be well off to the left or right side as they guide the material into the blade.
  8. Lower the black height guide down such that it hovers just above your piece; this will help stop the piece from bouncing up and down with the blade.
  9. Position the black air nozzle such that it focuses air at the cut location.
  10. Turn on the saw by pushing the red switch at the top of the scroll saw.
  11. Slowly move your piece through your planned cut. If you experience resistance or you chip your piece, you are moving too quickly. Also note that materials like acrylic may melt and reform where you just cut. Such materials may best be cut with the laser cutter.
  12. Once you are finished, turn off the saw and unplug it.
  13. Use the dust pan or vacuum to clean up cut debris.