OP
downsizingnow48
Elite Member
Interesting this thread has a split personality - part of it adapting RAS to metal cutting, part of it proper use of RAS generally. I stopped using the tool 20 years ago in favor of other (in my view easier and safer) ways to cut wood. I got this DeWalt recently for pretty much the opposite reason. To see if it would be better for some metal cutting tasks than other alternatives. I am not sure it actually is better, but it does what I wanted it to do, and (as modified) safely. My current practice, which reflects feedback from all, is to clamp the workpiece, and draw the saw into the work in recommended RAS way. Using the lead screw to move the motor head. All suggestions for further functional and safety improvements are welcome.
So, on the last part of JJs question. I think the front-located magnet idea is a good one. The shroud I made does a pretty good job of keeping chips on the table, but anything to better manage the chips is worth trying. I am thinking of two other modifications. A rubber flap, that could stay right on the surface of the material, might help, especially in front, where JJ is suggesting a magnet could be placed. Also, I am thinking of routing a slot through the table where the blade travels, and installing a pan underneath. That might better contain the chips that travel with the blade.
Now on the first part of JJs question. You might learn more about our family than you wanted. I already asked my brother in law what the prevailing practice is, and he told me. So if I go back to him and ask for documentation suggesting he might be wrong, that will make him grumpy. Then my sister will get involved, and then we have a problem. Right now I am trying to talk them into moving back to California, so the whole thing would be a mess. That's a long way of saying why I don't want to go back to him on the radial arm saw question, but not to brush off the question.
To get some perspective on RAS practice I explored a bit. It turns out there are dozens of good threads on the woodworking sites. The points we have discussed are there, and more. I was surprised to learn so many people continue to use - and debate - a tool I personally thought was obsolete a couple decades ago.
Well now I am going to go see if I can fit a laser to my donut and get it into the coffee cup more accurately.
So, on the last part of JJs question. I think the front-located magnet idea is a good one. The shroud I made does a pretty good job of keeping chips on the table, but anything to better manage the chips is worth trying. I am thinking of two other modifications. A rubber flap, that could stay right on the surface of the material, might help, especially in front, where JJ is suggesting a magnet could be placed. Also, I am thinking of routing a slot through the table where the blade travels, and installing a pan underneath. That might better contain the chips that travel with the blade.
Now on the first part of JJs question. You might learn more about our family than you wanted. I already asked my brother in law what the prevailing practice is, and he told me. So if I go back to him and ask for documentation suggesting he might be wrong, that will make him grumpy. Then my sister will get involved, and then we have a problem. Right now I am trying to talk them into moving back to California, so the whole thing would be a mess. That's a long way of saying why I don't want to go back to him on the radial arm saw question, but not to brush off the question.
To get some perspective on RAS practice I explored a bit. It turns out there are dozens of good threads on the woodworking sites. The points we have discussed are there, and more. I was surprised to learn so many people continue to use - and debate - a tool I personally thought was obsolete a couple decades ago.
Well now I am going to go see if I can fit a laser to my donut and get it into the coffee cup more accurately.
