What is the depth of cut on a jigsaw?
| Depth of cut or cutting capacity is the maximum depth a jigsaw can cut. It is determined by the stroke length of the jigsaw, as well as the length of the cutting edge of the blade. For more information see What is the stroke length of the jigsaw? Most manufacturers list the maximum depth of cut of their jigsaws for wood, steel, and non-ferrous metals. | |
 | ||
Tree | ||
 | The depth to which the jigsaw can cut wood ranges from 40 mm (1½ inches) to 150 mm (6 inches). Saws with greater depth of cut are much more versatile as they are able to cut a wider range of workpieces. | |
 | While a larger depth of cut is certainly beneficial in terms of adaptability, a deeper cut increases the chance of blade deflection, which will affect your cutting accuracy. | |
Non-ferrous metals | ||
 | Jigsaws are capable of cutting depths from 10 mm (⅜ inch) to 40 mm (approximately 1½ inches) in non-ferrous workpieces. | |
mild steel | ||
 | Since steel is harder than wood, and metals such as aluminum, the depth of cut of a jigsaw through steel is much less. The thickness of a jigsaw on steel is typically between 5 mm (about ¼ inch) and 15 mm (about ⅝ inch). | |
 | However, the cutting ability of a jigsaw does not necessarily determine the materials it can cut. The thickness and density of the processed material is determined by the engine power of the tool. For more information see What is the power of a jigsaw? | |
Posted
in
