Self-Excited Vibration of Circular Saws Cutting Aluminium

Summary

A theoretical discussion is given of how lateral vibration is excited in a saw during cutting. Waves travel in the rim of a saw in the direction of rotation of the saw, and also in the reverse direction. There is necessarily an integral number of complete waves in the whole circumference of the saw. In any given saw, each train of waves travels at a speed, relative to the saw, which is dictated by its wavelength. From these speeds and the number of teeth in the saw, it is possible to deduce the rotational speeds for resonance.

The surface profile, set up by vibrating teeth on the side wall of the saw-cut, is described, and the force due to the side-cutting action of each tooth is shown to supply positive excitation. Experimental methods for cutting tests are described, and results give support to the theory which is therefore proposed as a guide for saw design.