Operating a chainsaw with blunted edges of the cutting links of the saw chain reduces the effectiveness of the tool by almost half. In the simplest version, the problem is solved by a file for sharpening chainsaw chains, complete with a guide device.
A simple device is inferior in performance to sharpening devices with an electrical or mechanical drive, but provides a significant gain in cost. Correct sharpening of the chain with the required quality can be performed by the operator directly at the work site.
Photo: files for sharpening chainsaw chains
The list of advantages of manual sharpening:
- compactness and light weight of sharpening kits;
- autonomy of operation, allowing the circuit to be brought into working condition at a distance from power sources;
- less intensive consumption of saw chain service life.
Wear-resistant chains with carbide cutting elements are recommended to be sharpened only with special equipment.
Criteria for choosing a file taking into account the parameters of the chain
The need to straighten the edges of the cutting links is manifested by a noticeable decrease in sawing productivity, increased vibration, the release of small chips, and the need for additional effort to enter the headset into the cut.
Files and guides are selected taking into account the chain pitch. The device mounted on the tire provides the optimal sharpening angle. The branded assortment of many manufacturers includes simple holders and more advanced roller-type sharpening devices.
Advantages of machine and manual sharpening of saw chains
Despite the efficiency, autonomy and other advantages of manual sharpening, experts recommend periodically sharpening chains on special machine equipment. Even a one-time operation has a positive effect on the calibration of cutting links.
On the other hand, mechanized sharpening significantly affects the service life of the saw chain, since all cutting links are subjected to standard processing, regardless of their condition.
- In order to sharpen a chain yourself in the field, you need to have strong skills in working with the existing tool. The best option is to keep several chains in stock that can be changed with minimal loss of working time.
- To properly sharpen the cutting edges of the headset, in addition to a good eye and a steady hand, you need a special sharpening kit, which includes a flat and round file.
Features of the chainsaw
Cutting wood is similar to working with a plane.
In all this, the size of the cut depends on the thickness of the limiter. When the saw chain works in a saturated mode, the teeth become dull faster. Chain sharpening. File diameter 5 chain file. This is clearly manifested when the ground surface melts in the path of the chain. To blunt the teeth one hundred percent, it is enough to “catch” on the ground for a couple of seconds. If you are able to sharpen it frequently, the chain will last even longer, since very little metal will be removed. In addition to the question of what angle of sharpening the chainsaw chain should be, you also need to know this!
There is no need to work with blunt equipment for a number of reasons. At first, this affects the quality of the cut, but not for the best. Lethargy also quickly sets in, which is felt not only in the hands, but also in the body.
Another reason. unjustified excessive consumption of fuel. All parts will work in increased mode, which inevitably leads to rapid wear. Performance drops seriously, which also happens when using a defective chain.
To be able to sharpen a chainsaw chain perfectly, you should know the structure of its teeth. You can’t do without knowing the sharpening angle. Each tooth has a complex structure. Its geometry is represented by the following components:
- basis;
- spatula;
- depth limiter.
With all this, the blade consists of two blades: the end blade and the top blade. At the same time, there must be the correct sharpening angle of the chainsaw chain between them in order to provide it with the required performance.
How can you figure it out now? It is not the chain that cuts the tree, since it serves as the basis for securing the cutting links and moves them at the highest speed. The links themselves have sharp blades, with the help of which the wood is cut.
Composition of sharpening kits
The selection of the required round file diameter is determined by the pitch of the saw chain. A standard chain sharpening kit consists of several components. The list, along with cylindrical and flat files, includes several templates and a device for cleaning the headset.
Both files are used to process each cutting link. In particular, cylindrical - the cutting edge of the tooth, the upper and end blades are formed.
A flat file is used to process the cutting depth limiter. As a result of straightening the cutting teeth, the productivity of sawing wood of different species increases significantly.
What is included in the sharpening kit?
In the absence of a special machine, you will have to make do with a file to sharpen the chainsaw chain (more precisely, not one, but two). You also need a special template with which you can check the current value of the sharpening angle. Thus, the basic set of sharpening equipment includes:
- Round file with a cross-sectional diameter of 4.5…5 mm.
- A holder with special positioning lines, with the help of which the tool can be placed on the top face with the required accuracy. The holder is equipped with a section that rests on the surface of the cutting depth limiter.
- A flat file used to sharpen the limiter itself.
- A hook that removes sawdust generated during the sharpening process.
It should be noted that manual sharpening is effective only when the signs of dullness of the chainsaw are established very quickly, and the wear is relatively small. Otherwise, more complex and expensive specialized machines will be required. Manual machines in the FUG size range are also suitable for working with Shtil-180 chainsaw teeth. Their advantage is that it is possible to qualitatively sharpen teeth whose wear turned out to be sharply uneven.
Experts advise purchasing sets of such files at the same time as purchasing the saw itself, or, in extreme cases, in the same store. Because there is no universal file for sharpening chainsaws from different manufacturers.
Selecting a file taking into account the parameters of the saw chain
The quality of the final result largely depends on the correct file diameter. When using a chainsaw with an incorrectly sharpened chain, at best, cutting performance will decrease, at worst, the chain will be hopelessly damaged. There is also a high probability of damage to the instrument as a whole.
In everyday use, for sharpening chains with pitches of ¼, 0.325″, 3/8″ and 0.404″, files with a diameter of 4.0/4.8/5.2 and 5.5 millimeters, respectively, are recommended. For certain exclusive varieties of saw chains, cylindrical analogues Ø 3.2 mm are used. The most convenient file size for manual chain sharpening is 200 mm.
Chain Sharpening File 3 8
Content
Ratfil for sharpening chainsaw chains - features of selection and implementation
Operating a chainsaw with blunted edges of the cutting links of the saw chain reduces the effectiveness of tool insertion by almost half. In the most ordinary version, the problem is solved by a ratfil for sharpening chainsaw chains, complete with a guide device.
A conventional device is inferior in performance to sharpening devices with an electronic or mechanical drive, but provides a significant gain in price. A machine for sharpening chains using a machine will help you achieve this, just like buying a machine. Correct sharpening of the chain with proper quality can be carried out by the operator directly at the work site.
Photo: ratfils for sharpening chainsaw chains
The list of advantages of manual sharpening:
- compactness and low weight of sharpening kits;
- autonomy of operation, allowing the circuit to be brought into working condition at a distance from power sources;
- the least saturated consumption of the operational resource of the saw chain.
Wear-resistant chains with carbide cutting elements are recommended to be sharpened only with special equipment.
Criteria for choosing a file taking into account the parameters of the chain
The need to straighten the edges of the cutting links is manifested by a noticeable decrease in sawing productivity, increased vibration, the release of small chips, and the need for additional effort to enter the headset into the cut.
Ratfiles and guide devices are selected taking into account the chain pitch. The device mounted on the tire provides the best sharpening angle. The branded assortment of many manufacturers includes ordinary holders and more advanced roller-type sharpening devices.
READ How to Make an Oil Supply to Your Saw Yourself
Advantages of machine and manual sharpening of saw chains
Despite the efficiency, autonomy and other advantages of manual sharpening, experts advise from time to time sharpening chains on special machine equipment. Even a one-time operation has a positive effect on the calibration of cutting links.
On the other hand, mechanized sharpening significantly affects the life of the saw chain, since all cutting links are subjected to standard processing, regardless of their condition.
- In order to sharpen a chain in the field without the help of others, you must have strong ability to work with existing equipment. The ideal option is to keep several chains in stock that can be changed with minimal loss of working time.
- To properly sharpen the cutting edges of a headset, in addition to a good eye and a steady hand, you need a special sharpening kit, which includes a thin and round file .
Composition of sharpening kits
The selection of the required round file diameter is determined by the pitch of the saw chain. sharpening kit consists of several components. The list, along with cylindrical and flat files, includes several templates and a device for cleaning the headset.
What kind of file is needed to sharpen a chain?
How to choose a file
for
sharpening a chain
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Both files are used to process each cutting link. File for sharpening chainsaw chain. In particular, cylindrical - the cutting edge of the tooth, the upper and end blades are formed.
A flat file is used to process the cutting depth limiter. As a result of straightening the cutting teeth, the productivity of sawing wood of different species increases significantly.
READ How to Correctly Put a Chain on a Electric Saw
Advantages of a branded assortment
In any case, the best result can be obtained by using a branded chain sharpening tool, the capabilities of which are an order of magnitude higher than their cheap analogues.
The practice of working with brand tools shows that the products of leading manufacturers Shtil, Husqvarna, Oregon and a number of others do not differ in quality characteristics.
Selecting a file taking into account the parameters of the saw chain
The quality of the final result largely depends on the correct file diameter. Compact machines for sharpening chainsaw chains! With a rotating body base and angle adjustment! When using a chainsaw with an incorrectly sharpened chain, at best, cutting performance will decrease, at worst, the chain will be hopelessly damaged. There is also a high probability of damage to the instrument as a whole.
In everyday use, for sharpening chains with pitches of ¼, 0.325″, 3/8″ and 0.404″, files with a diameter of 4.0/4.8/5.2 and 5.5 millimeters, respectively, are recommended. For certain exclusive varieties of saw chains, cylindrical analogues Ø 3.2 mm are used. The most convenient file size for manual chain sharpening is 200 mm.
Alternative options
The Russian market has a wide range of auxiliary equipment that allows you to select a file or device for sharpening chains of different configurations and price levels. The products of leading manufacturers of chainsaw equipment are of the best quality.
A significant part of the offers consists of branded components for various models of sharpening machines. Such files do not have shanks or handles, so they are not suitable for manual sharpening. Piece products may be sold individually or as a set with templates, mandrels, holders or other additional equipment.
Video: how to sharpen a chainsaw chain with a file
Storage rules
Files are made from hard but rather brittle tool steel. Storing and transporting several copies in one box may affect their performance parameters.
READ How to Put a Chain on a Saw
As part of the factory kits, files are provided with optimal storage conditions. Buy a machine for sharpening chainsaw chains. It is recommended to keep a set of several individual tools in a sectional case such as a bandoleer.
The functionality of files with a dirty or oily cut can be restored by cleaning with a stiff brush and rinsing in a solution of dish grease remover, acetone or unleaded gasoline.
Recommendations for using the working chain kit
The practice of working with one circuit is fundamentally wrong. Experienced sawyers advise keeping several copies in a set and periodically using them in working mode.
In this option, the tire and drive sprocket wear evenly; the service life of these expensive elements will be equal to the total service life of 3 or even 4 saw chains.
Features of care and maintenance of saw sets
The service life of removable equipment equally depends on the quality of the material, the design features of the lubrication system, and the qualifications of the workers and maintenance personnel.
During operation, it is recommended to periodically check the tension of the saw chain and the supply of chain oil to the working cutting area. Filling the system with waste and cheap oil substitutes is strictly not recommended.
The wear rate of the chain and bar increases sharply with excessive tension, sand and other abrasive materials getting into the set, or poor condition of the drive sprocket crown. A nail not detected in the wood in a timely manner can ruin a new chain beyond any possibility of repair.
After work, the headset must be cleaned of sawdust; during long breaks in work, it must be dismantled, lubricated and stored in a dry place.
Source
Alternative options
The Russian market has a wide range of auxiliary equipment that allows you to select a file or device for sharpening chains of different configurations and price levels. The products of leading manufacturers of chainsaw equipment are of the best quality.
A significant part of the offers consists of branded components for various models of sharpening machines. Such files do not have shanks or handles, so they are not suitable for manual sharpening. Piece products may be sold individually or as a set with templates, mandrels, holders or other additional equipment.
Video: how to sharpen a chainsaw chain with a file
Storage rules
Files are made from hard but rather brittle tool steel. Storing and transporting several copies in one box may affect their performance parameters.
As part of the factory kits, files are provided with optimal storage conditions. It is recommended to keep a set of several individual tools in a sectional case such as a bandoleer.
The functionality of files with a dirty or oily cut can be restored by cleaning with a stiff brush and rinsing in a solution of dish grease remover, acetone or unleaded gasoline.
Features of care and maintenance of saw sets
The service life of removable equipment equally depends on the quality of the material, the design features of the lubrication system, and the qualifications of the workers and maintenance personnel.
During operation, it is recommended to periodically check the tension of the saw chain and the supply of chain oil to the working cutting area. Filling the system with waste and cheap oil substitutes is strictly not recommended.
The wear rate of the chain and bar increases sharply with excessive tension, sand and other abrasive materials getting into the set, or poor condition of the drive sprocket crown. A nail not detected in the wood in a timely manner can ruin a new chain beyond any possibility of repair.
After work, the headset must be cleaned of sawdust; during long breaks in work, it must be dismantled, lubricated and stored in a dry place.
How do you know when sharpening is needed?
You can determine whether the chain teeth have been ground down or not by looking at some characteristic signs. Of course, it all depends on how intensively the chainsaw is used. It’s worth taking a closer look at what kind of shavings it leaves behind. Its uniformity and square shape indicate sharp teeth. If the chain is worn down, it usually leaves behind wood dust, and the sawdust itself resembles the needles that a hand saw “produces.”
If the cutting speed is reduced, then this is also considered a sign of a dull chain. You can feel an increase in the load on the instrument itself and the appearance of vibration. Beginners may not always be able to spot some of these signs. Therefore, they should pay more attention to the quality of the chips. Sometimes it can be brown, which is a guaranteed indication that it’s time to sharpen the chain.
