A table saw (known as “saw bench” or “bench saw” in the UK) is a power tool used mainly in woodworking, as well as construction, and DIY projects. 

How A Table Saw Works

This equipment consists of a protruding circular saw blade, mounted on an electric motor-driven arbor. Its table provides support for the workpiece as it goes through the blade for cutting.

Basically, modern table saws allow woodworkers to move the tool’s blade up and down to get the desired depth during the cut. In essence, deeper cuts are achieved by adjusting the blade so it protrudes higher above the table.

Different Types of Table Saws

Table saws are essential in woodworking shops, construction sites, and DIY projects due to their ability to make precise cuts and rip long pieces of wood. Here are some common table saw types:

• Benchtop: These are lightweight and portable saws for smaller projects and limited spaces. 
• Contractor: A bit larger and heavier than a benchtop but easy to move around for on-site work.
• Jobsite: These are also slightly larger than benchtops. Carpenters, contractors, and tradesmen prefer using this type.
• Cabinet: A cabinet table saw is heavier and more stable. They are built into a large cabinet-like structure. Professional woodworking shops prefer them for their accuracy and durability.
• Hybrid: Hybrid saws combine the features of cabinet and contractor saws to offer performance and affordability.
• Sliding: These saws have a sliding table that allows users to move the workpiece smoothly through the blade. They are useful for making precise crosscuts and miters.
• Portable: These are compact and lightweight saws that users can easily transport to jobsites and smaller projects.

Table Saw Handling Safety

Just like all the other power tools, the table saw requires proper handling to avoid mishaps and injuries during operations. Here are some guidelines to ensure safe woodworking experiences:

• Proper Training: Proper training is crucial to safely handling table saws. Seek professional help to learn how to achieve the desired quality in the safest manner.
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Avoid loose clothing and jewelry as they could get caught in the saw blade.
• Maintain A Clear Workspace: Work with sufficient lighting and always keep the space free of clutter.
• Use a Blade Guard and Riving Knife: Keep the blade guard in place at all times and use a riving knife to prevent kickback. A kickback is a sudden backward movement of an object.
• Adjust Blade Height: Set the height of the blade only slightly higher than the workpiece to prevent blade catching and kickback.
• Proper Body Position: Stand to the side of the blade, not in line with it. Mind kickbacks and steer clear of its possible path.
• Secure the Workpiece: Keep the workpiece secure with the help of a miter gauge or a fence.
• Turn Off the Saw: Before changing the blade or making adjustments, turn off the saw and unplug it first. 
• Keep Hands Off the Blade: Always keep your hands away from the blade.
• Inspect and Maintain: Check the blade and the table saw for any signs of damage before and after use. Keep the blades sharp all the time and store the equipment in a safe place.