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Tips for Using a Cordless Mini Circular Saw

Apr 18,2022 Leave a comment Article, Cordless mini circularsaw, Product

Hychika’s newest cordless mini circular saw is a powerful tool. It is capable of cutting wood, pvc pipe, tile and other materials, without being bound by wires. But before using it, we still need to know some safety knowledge to avoid accidents

Indications:

For optimal result when sawing wood, the cutting depth should be set slightly greater than the thickness of the chosen material.
When cutting plastic, the cutting depth should also be greater than the thickness of the material. If the material begins to melt, then setting a greater depth of cut usually resolves the problem.
When cutting metal, the cutting depth should be at least 1.0 mm larger than the thickness of the material.
When sawing wood or plastic, the depth of cut can also be set exactly on the thickness of the material to prevent that the underlying surface gets damaged. However, this does lead to an impure saw cut at the bottom of the workpiece

Danger:

Keep hands away from cutting area and the blade. Keep your second hand on auxiliary handle, or motor housing. If both hands are holding the saw, they cannot be cut by the blade.
Do not reach underneath the workpiece. The guard cannot protect you from the blade below the workpiece.
Adjust the cutting depth to the thickness of the workpiece. Less than a full tooth of the blade teeth should be visible below the workpiece.
Never hold piece being cut in your hands or across your leg. Secure the workpiece to a stable platform. It is important to support the work properly to minimize body exposure, blade binding, or loss of control.
When ripping always use a rip fence or straight edge guide. This improves the accuracy of cut and reduces the chance of blade binding.
Always use blades with correct size and shape (diamond versus round) of arbour holes. Blades that do not match the mounting hardware of the saw will run eccentrically, causing loss of control.
Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers or bolt. The blade washers and bolt were specially designed for your saw, for optimum performance and safety of operation.

Causes and operator prevention of kickback:

Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound or misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the workpiece toward the operator;
When the blade is pinched or bound tightly by the kerf closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit rapidly back toward the operator;
If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of the wood causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump back toward the operator.
Kickback is the result of saw misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below.

Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and position your arms to resist kickback forces. Position your body to either side of the blade, but not in line with the blade. Kickback could cause the saw to jump backwards, but kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
When blade is binding, or when interrupting a cut for any reason, release the trigger and hold the saw motionless in the material until the blade comes to a complete stop. Never attempt to remove the saw from the work or pull the saw backward while the blade is in motion or kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective actions to eliminate the cause of blade binding.
When restarting a saw in the workpiece, centre the saw blade in the kerf and check that saw teeth are not engaged into the material. If saw blade is binding, it may walk up or kickback from the workpiece as the saw is restarted.
Support large panels to minimise the risk of blade pinching and kickback. Large panels tend to sag under their own weight. Supports must be placed under the panel on both sides, near the line of cut and near the edge of the panel.
Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing excessive friction, blade binding and kickback.
Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers must be tight and secure before making cut. If blade adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and kickback.
Use extra caution when making a “plunge cut” into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade may cut objects that can cause kickback.

No matter how you cutting, correct posture is important

Safety instructions guard:

Check guard for proper closing before each use. Do not operate the saw if guard does not move freely and enclose the blade instantly. Never clamp or tie the guard with the blade exposed. If saw is accidentally dropped, guard may be bent. Check to make sure that guard moves freely and does not touch the blade or any other part, in all angles and depths of cut.
Check the operation and condition of the guard return spring. If the guard and the spring are not operating properly, they must be serviced before use. Guard may operate sluggishly due to damaged parts, gummy deposits, or a build-up of debris.
Assure that the guide plate of the saw will not shift while performing the “plunge cut” when the blade bevel setting is not at 90°. Blade shifting sideways will cause binding and likely kick back.
Always observe that the guard is covering the blade before placing saw down on bench or floor. An unprotected, coasting blade will cause the saw to walk backwards, cutting whatever is in its path. Be aware of the time it takes for the blade to stop after switch is released.

Specific safety instructions:

Do not use misshaped or cracked blades.
Regularly check the blades for damage. If necessary, replace them.
Never use a saw that has components missing or a saw that is fitted with accessories which were not supplied with the saw or which are not recommended for use with the saw.
Never exert sideways pressure on the blade to bring it to a stop.
Do not lock or clamp the protective cover.
Do not use the saw without the protective cover.
Before using the saw, check whether the protective cover has been fitted.
After use, the saw must be stored in such a way that the blade cannot become damaged.
Do not use abbrasive discs.
Always wear a dust mask.
Only use saw blades recommended (e.g saw blades intended for wood shall have EN 847-1 approval).
Always wear hearing protection.
Only use blade diameter in accordance with the marking label.
Have a suitable, tested vacuum removal device attached to the saw when working with woods or materials that create dusts that may be hazardous to health.
When cutting plastics, avoid to overheat the blade, avoid to melt the plastic!
Be careful when handling the saw blades as they are sharp and can cause injury. It is recommended to wear protective gloves when handling the saw blades.
Beware when changing blades as they can become hot during use. Allow the blade time to cool before replacing.
Always store the saw blades in a safe place.

Safety Tips for Operating an Angle Grinder

Dec 24,2021 1 Comment Article

Power tools are usually engaged in high-speed motion which can cause danger if precautions are not taken.

Although the chance of injury is minimized using a Hychika angle grinder with a triple safety design( safety switch, auxiliary handle, and wheel guard), there are still a few guidelines to follow in order to stay injury-free all the time.

Disconnect from the power source (the battery pack from the power tool) before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Inspect parts for misalignment, binding, or breakage.

2. When not in use, store the battery away from other metal objects like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws, etc,

3. The outside diameter and the thickness of your discs must be within the capacity rating of your power tool.

4. Threaded accessories must match the grinder spindle thread. Or else the power tool will run out of balance.

5. Wear protective equipment such as a face shield, safety goggles, or safety glasses to stop small abrasive work-piece fragments.

6. Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only in case the cutting accessory may contact hidden wires.

7. Never lay the power tool down until the accessory has come to a complete stop. The spinning accessory may grab the surface and lose control.

8. Maintain a firm grip on the power tool to resist kickback forces. Always use an auxiliary handle for maximum control.

9. Never place your hand near the rotating accessory.

10. Do not “jam” the cut-off wheel or apply excessive pressure on it.

11. Do not attempt to make an excessive depth of cut. Over-stressing the wheel increases the chance of wheel twisting or binding.

13. Do not position your body in line with the rotating wheel.

14. When the wheel is binding or the cut interrupted for any reason, switch off the power tool and hold the power tool motionless until the wheel comes to a complete stop.

15. Do not restart cutting in the workpiece.

16. Be extra careful when making a “pocket cut” into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding wheel may cut gas or water pipes, electrical wiring, etc.

17. Large workpieces tend to sag under their own weight. Supportive pads must be placed under the workpiece near the line of cut.

Be acknowledged of the above, and now you are ready to go!

Niches of Each Type of Cordless Drill/Driver

Dec 17,2021 10 Comments Article

Power drivers and drills, as we can see, bear similar looks (pistol-shaped) and even function similarly to some extent. It seems impossible to tell them apart from one another. They take slightly different forms (mainly the chuck) and occur in their niche more often than others. The next chapters may give you some hints on how to make a choice.

Cordless Screwdriver

Cordless screwdrivers are usually light-weighted and very easy to use. That means they’re ideal for smaller projects around the house, such as assembling a bookshelf, removing a cabinet door, and replacing an outlet cover.

Cordless Drill

Power drills are indispensable tools for home improvement and all types of jobs around the house, small or large. You can equip them with needle-thin bits for drilling tiny holes for craft projects or chuck in large hole saws for cutting up to 5-inch diameter holes in drywall and other soft materials.

Cordless Impact Drivers

Impact drivers excel at driving fasteners into dense or knotty wood. Use Impact Drivers When：

Driving screws into wood or metal (you can use it for drywall if you’ve got a lower speed/torque option)

Driving large diameter screws or lag bolts.

Tightening/loosening bolts, including those that should be very tight or have been stuck.

Unlike drills, impact drivers have quick-release shanks that accept all 1/4 inch hex driver bits.

Cordless Hammer Drill

A hammer drill combines rotational bursts with front-to-back movement (the hammering action) to bore into difficult masonry that presents an obstacle for ordinary drills.

Cordless Impact Wrench

Impact wrenches are found in the tool chests of mechanics everywhere. They’re commonly used for loosening lug nuts from cars and trucks, but they can also be used in any high-torque situation.

How To Decide

If you need to drill holes and drive the occasional medium-sized screw, a regular drill will suit you fine. If you’ve got a deck to build, a plywood sub-floor to install, a treehouse to screw together, or any other job involving lots of wood screws, consider investing in an impact driver.

Tips for Using a Cordless Mini Chainsaw

Dec 4,2021 11 Comments Article

Limit cutting material to wood only

Never use a mini chainsaw for cutting any non-wood material, including plastic, masonry, or metal. Never cut a tree or branch with a diameter wider than the length of the mini chainsaw’s guide bar.

Tension the Chain Properly

Make sure that the chain is properly tensioned on the guide bar. A loose chain may whip free or draw materials into it. A tight chain may not move at all or have a higher risk of breaking down during heavy-duty operations.

A thumb of rule: pull the chain to check the tightness of fitting. Let the upper side of the down chain bite loosely with the guide bar but leave no clearance when you pull the down chain with force.

Avoid kickback

Kickback results from the tip of the moving chainsaw being allowed to come into contact awkwardly with an object. The tip may bounce wildly backward and injure the worker.

The guide bar of the mini chainsaw should be 1-2 inches longer than the diameter of what you need to cut. Chainsaws with a top flap or low kickback have a lower risk of kickback incurred injury.

Sharpen the chain regularly

There’s no hard-and-fast rule on how often you need to sharpen your chainsaw, but many experts recommend doing it every time you need to refuel the tool.

Follow the dressing code

Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, dangling jewelry, or anything else that could become caught in the chain of the saw.

Avoid Touching the Chain, Even When Stationary

Chainsaws’ chains are very sharp. Even when the chain is not moving, it can severely lacerate the skin. Be sure to keep the cover on the saw when not in use or remove the battery so the machine doesn’t start at all.

Lubricate the chain in a timely manner

The oil lubricates the bar and chain, preventing premature wear and possible derailing of the chain.

After the oil is applied, run the chainsaw for a few seconds until it is spread evenly onto the chain. While manual oiling may be a little tricky to handle, there are auto oiling options that distribute a consistent, steady flow of oil onto the chain. Check the oil tank to keep track of the oil level for a timely refill.

What Is The Best Time To Plant Hedges?

Sep 25,2021 2 Comments Article, Support

A garden surrounded by beautiful hedges adds to the beauty of your premises. Hedge plants are inexpensive yet they add a royal style to the scenery. Ideally, the best time of year to plant hedges is between November and April. However, it highly depends on the type of hedge plant you choose for your garden. You can plant different types of hedges during different periods of the year.

Before planting the bare root hedge plants, they need some preparations and treatments. They are as below:

Before plant hedges, the roots or the plants should be soaked in water for at least an hour.
The bare roots should not be exposed, hence, it should be kept soaked in water until you decide of planting.
Once you have planted the hedges in their permanent place, make sure that you water them adequately for at least the first 2 years.

Plant Hedges – Popular Types of Hedges
Let’s check on a few of the types of hedges and the best time of their plantation;

*Evergreen and Semi-Green hedges
The beginning of autumn is the best time to plant hedges like this. These hedges are perfect to give you greenery throughout the year. Ideally, you can plant evergreen hedges between late autumn and late winter.

*Deciduous hedges
These hedges can be planted from mid of autumn till the end of winter. The dried ground is preferable to plant a deciduous hedge; hence, if you find the soil to be heavy with frozen solid, then it’s better to wait until the ground dries. Once dried, the soil should be thawed properly and then planting can be done easily.

If in the case by any reason you are delayed in planting the hedges, then you need to make sure that the roots of the hedges remain moist and are not dried out until the time of plantation. In order to keep it moist, the best option is to keep it covered with potting compost and a plastic sheet.

*Bare-rooted and root-balled specimen tree hedges
Specimen trees should be planted between November and March. These trees need immediate plantation and are available during autumn until early winter. The temperature usually rises during spring, hence, these plants get time to grow their roots in the ground and form a strong base if planted immediately.

Pleached and Pot-Hold Hedges
If in case you are unable to plant the hedges immediately, then, in such cases you will have to make some temporary arrangements for the plants to help them survive. Proper care should be taken to keep the roots moist. Bracken or straw can be used to prevent the roots from drying out.

*Pleached hedges
Pleached hedges are examples of trees whose branches are woven together to give them a perfect look of an ideal hedge. These types of hedges are usually planted between November and April.

*Container or pot-hold hedges
You can plant these hedges any time of the year. The only condition is that you should water them sufficiently. These hedges give the most beautiful look to your small garden. They are also suitable for partitioning and fencing within the garden area.

Hedge Trimming
We advise you to read our reviews of hedge trimmers. We list all the types, starting from petrol hedge trimmer reviews to cordless, electric and long reach.

Types of Plants Suitable To Make Hedge

>>>Boxwood shrubs.
>>> Holly shrubs.
>>> English and Japanese Yews.
>>> Mountain Laurels.
>>> Other Hedge shrubs – mountain laurels, privets, azaleas, etc.
>>> Deciduous Hedge shrubs.
>>> Arborvitae trees.
>>> Canadian Hemlocks.
>>> European beech trees.
Our experts at best hedge trimmer reviews warn that its not all. There is many more in addition to the above list. You have a huge list to choose from as per your taste and desire.

Few Benefits of Plant Hedges

From the above explanation, it’s clear to you have options available throughout the year to plant hedges at your premises. There are many advantages that hedging offers. Let’s check out on few of the benefits as mentioned below;

Beautiful look to the property: Hedges provide a great impact on the overall beauty of the property. A well designed and maintained hedge accompanied with lots of plants and trees is the best that any well-nurtured garden can have.
2. Privacy: Peeking on your property would be difficult if you have tall hedges surrounding your property. Hence, proper hedges would act as a screen for your premises, thus enabling you to have your own space.
3. Better than fencing: Hedging is better than traditional fencing options as they provide durability and sustainability against harsh weather conditions. Hence, you don’t have to worry about the costs that usually occur in the repairs of wear and tears of the fences.
4. Security: Prickly hedges provide the best protection against unwanted animals and outsiders. It’s very difficult to cross a thick, dense hedge, as a result, you remain safe and secure within your property.
5. Shelter for birds and animals: If you love nature, then this feature of hedges would definitely amaze you. Dense hedges provide nesting shelter to small birds and insects. If you have a well-maintained hedge in your premises, then you would be able to enjoy melodious chirping of birds and insects. However, you need to keep an eye as you cannot afford to entertain creatures that can cause harm to your hedges.
5. Protection to small plants: Hedges act as security pillars for the small plants in your garden. Hedges protect the small plants from coming in direct contact with the sunlight, wind, storm etc.
Conclusion
The process of plant hedges needs a lot of consideration and preparation. Though hedges are considered to be low in maintenance, still the initial 2 years can be critical. Once the base becomes strong, hedges can remain green for the whole year with very less attention. Living hedges need care and nurture, however not to the extent as other individual plants.

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