Portable Table Saws - Portable table saws perform the same basic functions as contractor or cabinet table saws, but on a smaller scale. Portable table saws typically have a ligher motor, smaller workspace and wheel based legs.

Bench Top Table Saws - Bench top table saws are smaller saws designed to operate in more confined work areas. Bench top table saws can also be portable but they do not have the longer legs and wheels found on portable table saws. Similar to portable table saws, bench top models will have smaller work spaces and motors.

Contractor Table Saws - Contractor table saws are also designed to be portable for moving from jobsite to jobsite, however, these table saws are relatively heavier and heftier compared to portable and bench top table saws. Many contractor saws will have a solid cast iron table top and lighter table extensions to extend the saw’s work area.

Cabinet Table Saws - Cabinet saws are designed to meet the performance requirements of professional woodworkers. Cabinet saws are more substantial and durable than contractor saws. Cabinet saws are built using more cast iron and steel and have more powerful motors than other table saws. A cabinet saw will be quieter and vibrate less than other table saws.

Table Saw Base - The base includes the working parts of the saw, including the trunnions, arbor assembly, sector gears, and potentially the motor. The base can be a cabinet style base –like a cabinet table saw– which has a fully enclosed base or cabinet that extends along the length of the saw to the floor.

Table Saw Table - The flat area where the woodworking and sawing is performed.

Table Saw Extension Wings - Extra table space that can be bolted onto either side of a table saw to increase the work space available for sawing and cutting.

Rip Fence And Fence Rails - A system designed to guide and position wood or sheet metal as it is cut on the table.

Miter Gauge - A system that allows for crosscutting the wood or sheet metal, that is on the table, at angles typically between 30 degrees and 90 degrees.

Arbor Assembly - The arbor assembly raises and lowers the table saw’s cutting blade. The arbor holds the blade.

Trunnions - The trunnions hold the motor and arbor assembly in place and provide stability and vibration absorption to the table saw.

Published 11/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

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