Ryobi RTS21 English Manual - Page 20

OPERATION APPLICATIONS You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:  Straight line cutting operations such as cross cutting, ripping, mitering, beveling, and compound cutting  Dado or molding cuts with optional accessories  Cabinet making and woodworking NOTE: This table saw is designed to cut wood and wood composition products only. Basic Operation of the TABLE Saw The 3-prong plug must be plugged into a matching outlet that is properly installed and grounded according to all local codes and ordinances. Improper connection of the equipment can result in electric shock. Do not modify the plug if it will not fit the outlet. Have the correct outlet installed by a qualified electrician. Refer to the Electrical section in this manual. CAUSES OF KICKBACK Kickback can occur when the blade stalls or binds, kicking the workpiece back toward you with great force and speed. If your hands are near the saw blade, they may be jerked loose from the workpiece and may contact the blade. Kickback can cause serious injury. Use precautions to avoid the risks. Kickback can be caused by any action that pinches the blade in the wood such as:  Making a cut with incorrect blade depth  Sawing into knots or nails in the workpiece  Twisting the wood while making a cut  Failing to support work  Forcing a cut  Cutting warped or wet lumber  Using the wrong blade for the type of cut  Not following correct operating procedures  Misusing the saw  Failing to use the anti-kickback pawls  Cutting with a dull, gummed-up, or improperly set blade AVOIDING KICKBACK  Always use the correct blade depth setting. The top of the blade teeth should clear the workpiece by 1/8 in. to 1/4 in.  Inspect the work for knots or nails before beginning a cut. Knock out any loose knots with a hammer. Never saw into a loose knot or nail.  Always use the rip fence when rip cutting and the miter gauge when cross cutting. This helps prevent twisting the wood in the cut.  Always use clean, sharp, and properly-set blades. Never make cuts with dull blades.  To avoid pinching the blade, support the work properly before beginning a cut.  When making a cut, use steady, even pressure. Never force cuts.  Do not cut wet or warped lumber.  Always hold your workpiece firmly with both hands or with push sticks. Keep your body in a balanced position to be ready to resist kickback should it occur. Never stand directly in line with the blade.  Use the right type of blade for the cut being made. cutting aids See Figure 17. Push sticks are devices used for safely pushing a workpiece through the blade. They can be made in various sizes and shapes from scrap wood and used in a specific project. The stick must be narrower than the workpiece, with a 90˚ notch in one end and shaping for a grip on the other end. A push block has a handle fastened by recessed screws from the underside. Use it on non-through cuts. CAUTION: Be sure the screws in a push block are recessed to avoid damaging the saw or workpiece. PUSH STICKS PUSH BLOCKS Fig. 17 20