Rating of mounting saws for metal

Updated: 02/19/2021 18:45:19

Expert: Konstantin Borisovich Polyakov

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Assembly saws have a wide range of applications in everyday life and the construction industry. The tool is valued by specialists for its high performance, accuracy and ease of use. Electric devices combine mobility and the ability to cut at different angles. Assembly saws are equipped with a work table on which a clamping device (vice) is installed. The Russian market offers a wide range of models with different prices and characteristics. To choose the most functional tool at an affordable price, you should listen to the recommendations of our experts.

Jet MCS-275 T

Main characteristics:

Power - 1000 W;
Voltage - 380 V;
RPM - 42-84 rpm;
Cutting width - 100 mm;
Cutting depth - 80 mm;
Disc diameter - 275 mm;
The bore diameter is 32 mm.

Working part. The body of the movable head of the machine is made of cast iron, which guarantees its reliability and durability. The drive is a gear reducer filled with oil to reduce friction, the level of which can be monitored through a special window.

The working element is a cutting disc with a diameter of 275 mm with a mounting hole of 32 mm, the choice of which will not pose any problems. Manual control. The built-in spring compensates for the operator's efforts when changing the position of the tool in the vertical plane.

Built-in spring Jet MCS-275 T.

Sawing table. The massive wide frame rests firmly on a horizontal surface and can be bolted to the base. It is equipped with a vice with a quick lock and a rotating mechanism that allows you to accurately set the angle of rotation of the workpiece in the range of 45° in any direction.

Vise with quick release and rotating mechanism.

Functionality and capabilities. The machine's power of 1000 W and the disk size are sufficient for cutting steel pipes with a diameter of up to 80 mm. The cut is made at a speed of 42 or 84 revolutions per minute. Optimal conditions for the operation of cutting edges are provided by an automatic coolant supply system with a 2.5-liter tank.

Pros of Jet MCS-275 T

Possibility of connecting to a network voltage of 220 and 380 volts.
Quick-clamping mechanisms of the vice and rotary platform.
Two speed modes.
Motor overload protection.
End stop for faster cutting of similar parts.
Comfortable handle with motor control button.

Cons of Jet MCS-275 T

High price.
The disc is not included in the package.

DeWALT DW 872

Main characteristics:

Power - 2200 W
Voltage - 220 V
RPM - 1300 rpm
Cutting width - 230 mm
Cutting depth - 140 mm
Disc diameter - 355 mm
Bore diameter - 25.4 mm

Working part. The movable head of this mounting saw consists of a 2200 W electric motor with a 388x25.4 mm cutting disc mounted on its shaft. Rotation speed 1300 rpm. The absence of a gearbox made the design as compact and lightweight as possible. The protective cover, which moves as the wheel is lowered, ensures the safety of the operator. The spring makes it easier to manipulate the rotating frame, which is especially important during monotonous work.

Spring for manipulation DeWALT DW 872.

Sawing table. The rectangular steel base of the machine rests firmly on the work table and can be secured with bolts. It contains a rotary vice with a quick-clamping mechanism that allows you to cut parts at a given angle.

Functionality and capabilities. The machine is connected to a standard electrical network with a voltage of 220 volts. It is capable of cutting steel workpieces with a width of 230 and a thickness of 140 mm. To protect the engine from overloads and prevent voltage surges, a soft start system is provided.

Pros of DeWALT DW 872

Compact sizes.
High power.
Spindle lock for easy disk mounting.
Easy replacement of motor brushes.
Fixation of the working head during transportation.
Equipped with a titanium disc with carbide teeth.

Cons of DeWALT DW 872

The vice is fixed only in several positions without the possibility of arbitrarily setting the required angle.
High noise level.
The control handle is located on the side, which often leads to a slight shift in the cutting plane.

AEG SMT 355

Main characteristics:

Power - 2300 W
Voltage - 220 V
RPM - 3800 rpm
Cutting width - 125 mm
Cutting depth - 120 mm
Disc diameter - 355 mm
Bore diameter - 25.4 mm

Working part. The machine is driven by a brush motor with a power of 2300 W, connected to a single-phase network with a voltage of 220 volts. A cutting disc with a diameter of 350 mm and a mounting hole of 25.4 mm is mounted on its shaft and rotates at a speed of 3800 rpm. The entire structure is extremely light, compact and easy to transport. Operator safety is ensured by a metal casing with a removable shield and a spark arrestor.

Sawing table. The base is small in size. To increase stability and dampen vibration, rubber inserts are fixed in its corners. The vice allows you to cut workpieces at an angle of 90 and 45 degrees.

Vice AEG SMT 355.

Functionality and capabilities. The machine is capable of providing a maximum cutting width and depth of 125 and 120 mm, respectively. The design of the motor makes it possible to replace the brushes yourself, which saves the owner time and money. To simplify the installation of the disk there is a spindle lock.

Pros of AEG SMT 355

High performance.
Small dimensions and weight.
Availability of a spark arrester.
Manufacturer's warranty 6 years.
Reasonable price.
There is a designated place to store the key.

Cons of AEG SMT 355

Not the most accurate protractor.
Comes with a cheap disk, which is better to replace immediately.
A slight backlash.

Best Handheld Cutting Saws

Such models are small in size and convenient for suspended work. They do not have sawing tables, giving the operator greater freedom of action, so they are suitable for working with large structures or in hard-to-reach places.

Metabo TE 24-230 MVT CED

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The model is equipped with a shock absorber and a soft start system. This guarantees jerk-free operation and accurate cutting of the hardest materials. The safety shut-off mechanism automatically trips when there is a risk of overload, which extends the life of the tool.

The shaft revolutions per minute are 6600, the engine power is 2500 W. The kit includes a vacuum cleaner housing, a support flange, a diamond cutting wheel, and a plastic case. An additional handle makes it easier to hold the saw suspended and improves control during operation.

Advantages:

long cable;
rich equipment;
durability;
good vibration protection;
ease of maintenance.

Flaws:

high price.

Metabo TE 24-230 MVT CED is good for precise processing of mineral materials. It is ideal for cutting grooves and grooves.

Hitachi CM12Y

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

93%

buyers recommend this product

Features of the model include the presence of a soft start system. It prevents jerks at the start, increases the level of safety, guarantees accurate operation and extends the service life of the engine. The tool functions stably under intense load conditions.

The spindle rotation speed is 5000 rpm, the cutting depth reaches 10 centimeters. Small dimensions, balanced design and two ergonomic handles simplify operation. The kit includes a key for quick disc replacement and an adapter for the dust collector.

Advantages:

high performance;
fits comfortably in the hands;
vibration resistance;
smooth start;
durability.

Flaws:

heating during operation.

Hitachi CM12Y is suitable for regular work with various materials: concrete, stone, metal, etc.

Energomash PD-13125P

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

The tool uses two saw blades, which ensures a smooth and clean cut. They are covered with metal and plexiglass protective covers for greater safety. Easy access to carbon brushes makes it easy to replace them yourself.

The engine power is 1300 W, the spindle revolutions per minute reaches 5500. The comfortable handle with soft inserts does not slip out with any grip. The built-in lubrication system guarantees comfortable cutting of aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron and other metals.

Advantages:

light weight;
neat cut;
comfortable rotary handle;
maximum safety;
universal application.

Flaws:

short cable.

The Energomash PD-13125P saw will be useful for precise work in an awkward position (provided that there is an outlet or at least an extension cord nearby). An excellent choice for sawing ceramic tiles, metal, and wood.

Bosch GCO 14-24 J

Main characteristics:

Power - 2400 W
Voltage - 220 V
RPM - 3800 rpm
Cutting width - 196 mm
Cutting depth - 100 mm
Disc diameter - 355 mm
Bore diameter - 25.4 mm

Working part. This stationary metal cutting machine has compact dimensions and weighs only 18.1 kg. Its movable head is a rotating frame with a 2.4 kW motor mounted on it, on the shaft of which an abrasive disk measuring 355 mm with the most common mounting diameter of 25.4 mm is installed.

A built-in spring and an ergonomic handle with a start button make operation as convenient as possible. A metal casing with a shield that moves when lowered eliminates the risk of injury.

Built-in spring Bosch GCO 14-24 J.

Sawing table. The base is equipped with wide rubber feet for better stability. The vice is equipped with a thrust plate, the position of which is set using a hex key.

Functionality and capabilities. The saw can cut metal workpieces up to 196 mm wide and up to 100 mm thick. Processing is performed at a speed of 3800 rpm. There is a soft start system and protection against unintentional switching on. The unique design of the machine ensures maximum use of the disc until complete grinding.

Pros of Bosch GCO 14-24 J 0.601.B37.200

High power.
Compact sizes.
Quality materials.
Thoughtful design.
Increased security.
Sold complete with abrasive disc.
Affordable price.

Cons Bosch GCO 14-24 J 0.601.B37.200

It is difficult to accurately set the required angle.
Slight play in the vice.

Scope of application

A metal cutting saw belongs to the category of high-performance power tools.

The main purpose of this equipment is to perform cross cuts of rolled metal blanks and products made of various alloys and metals.

Disc machines are most widely used when creating workpieces from the following types of materials:

channel;
profile pipe with round and square cross-section;
I-beam;
rod;
metal strip;
corner.

Assembly saws for metal are actively used in the metalworking industry. You can also meet them in factories specializing in the production of metal structures. In this equipment, the function of the cutting element is performed by a circular saw.

Machine-type machines have a number of the following advantages::

Easy to use.
Ergonomic control.
High cutting quality.
Simple design.

A person can learn to operate a machine even without special training.

When equipping band-cutting machines for metal, the function of the cutting element is performed by a long toothed saw, which looks like a closed band. This working unit is made of high-speed steel. The cut created using this machine has a minimum width, which not only minimizes material consumption, but also ensures high cutting accuracy. Such equipment has become widespread in large and mass production.

Hacksaw varieties of cutting machines perform the cut using a hacksaw blade, which is fixed on the sawmill. This equipment comes in two types: manual and electromechanical . Hacksaw machines are actively used in small enterprises, as well as in workpiece shops.

Makita 2414NB

Main characteristics:

Power - 2000 W
RPM - 3800 rpm
Cutting width - 233 mm
Disc diameter - 355 mm
Bore diameter - 25.4 mm

Working part. This mounting saw has a convenient rotating mechanism with a spring force compensator. It has a reliable 2000 Watt motor. All conductive parts are double insulated. A specially designed metal guard protects the operator from the risk of accidental contact with the rotating disc. The ergonomic handle with control key is suitable for gripping with any hand.

Metal protective cover Makita 2414NB.

Sawing table. The wide rectangular base with rubber feet on the edges makes it easy to find a stable position when installing. The part to be cut is secured with a vice at any angle, which can be adjusted using a universal wrench.

Possible angle of Makita 2414NB vice.

Functionality and capabilities . The machine works with disks of a common diameter of 355 mm with a mounting hole of 25.4 mm. When replacing it, the shaft is blocked. Direct drive made the design extremely light and compact. The maximum cutting depth of 115 mm is suitable for most metal work.

Pros of Makita 2414NB

Good performance.
High-quality materials of main components and parts.
Comfortable handle.
Safety.
Additional carrying handle.
Relatively low price.

Cons of Makita 2414NB

No soft start.
There is no provision for fixing the start button in the working position.
When cutting at an angle, there is a slight displacement of the disc.

Recommendations for selection

Power

. Mounting saws are equipped with electric motors of different power.

Saws with powerful motors (2.5-3.5 kW) are most often used in professional activities. Models with a three-phase electric motor have maximum performance. A distinctive feature of powerful saws are large discs.
If you plan to use the tool in the country, it is better to choose a mobile device with a power of 1.5-2.5 kW.

Maximum disc diameter

. The depth of cut and productivity of the tool depend on the diameter of the saw blade. In production facilities you can find equipment with a diameter of up to 400 mm. For domestic needs, a disk with a diameter of 180...305 mm is selected.

Bore hole size

. Mounting saws use shafts of different sizes. When choosing a cutting blade, it is important to consider the bore diameter. It should match the size of the hole on the disk. If the disk has a large bore diameter, then the use of adapter bushings is allowed. Household models have a mounting diameter of 22.2-25.4 mm. The industrial tool is equipped with discs with a hole of 25.4-32 mm.

Safety.

During operation of a mounting saw, a lot of sparks, chips and abrasive are generated. When the disc is fed sharply at high speed, there is a risk of the blade breaking, which is a very dangerous incident for others. Therefore, a protective casing is a mandatory safety element. Many modern models are equipped with sliding covers that change their position depending on the height of the saw blade.

Additional options.

To increase the service life of the saw, as well as for convenience during operation, manufacturers equip the tool with a number of additional options.

A laser marker helps you cut the workpiece accurately.
Soft start allows you to reduce the load on the electrical network by reducing the starting current. The impact on the tool is reduced and its service life is extended.
The presence of electronic motor protection saves the mounting saw from failure when the cutting blade jams. This option will protect the motor from combustion in a number of emergency situations.
The spindle lock is used to secure the shaft for changing the cutting blade.

The editors of expertology, together with the Rankquality.com service, selected 11 of the best mounting saws for review. All these models are implemented in the Russian retail chain. When allocating places, the editors of the expertology magazine relied on the opinion of the expert community and reviews of Russian consumers.

Which mounting saw is better to choose?

When choosing a power tool for cutting metal, it is necessary to evaluate the build quality of the most important components, the materials used in the manufacture of parts and the convenience of the entire design for long-term operation. Let's look at what basic elements of the machine and its functionality you need to pay attention to.

What you need to know about engine types

Metal saws are equipped with two main types of electric power units.

Asynchronous motor

The asynchronous electric motor is most widely used in modern technology. It is reliable, relatively easy to manufacture, and has a long service life. It has a low starting torque and significant current during acceleration. It should be started at idle speed, after which it can be subjected to work loads. The absence of carbon brushes in the design guarantees long-term maintenance-free operation of the engine.

Sectional view of an asynchronous motor.

Brushed motor

Commutator motors incorporate graphite brushes that transmit current to the windings of a rotating rotor. Such models are usually smaller in size, easy to manufacture and repair, and inexpensive. They have limited power, low efficiency and require more frequent maintenance. They are not designed for long-term operation at high speeds. When choosing a machine with an electric motor of this type, it is advisable to make sure that you can replace the brushes yourself, so as not to resort to the services of after-sales services.

Cross-section of a commutator motor.

What types of drive can be used

The transmission of torque from the electric motor to the cutting heads of mounting saws is realized in two ways.

Belt drive

Belt drive is more typical for professional high-performance machines. It may cause a slight loss of power, but it protects the engine from overloads. The presence of several pulleys allows you to change the cutting speed mode and use discs of different diameters.

Belt driven metal assembly saw.

Drive via gearbox

Drive through a gearbox is more common in household and semi-professional tools. The gearbox transmits power without losses, but increases the load on the engine if the material resistance increases excessively. This negatively affects the service life of the entire machine.

Assembly saw for metal driven through a gearbox.

What you need to know about power

Engine power is directly related to the technical capabilities of the metal mounting saw. The vast majority of models are equipped with motors consuming from 700 to 2600 W. This indicator is selected depending on the intensity of use and the nature of the operations performed. Leading manufacturers equip their products with overload protection and electronic speed stabilization systems that improve performance under high loads.

Type of disk used

When cutting and processing metal workpieces, you can use discs of various designs and materials. There are two main types of consumables used in mounting saws.

Abrasive discs

Abrasive discs are made from solid components and have internal reinforcement. During operation, they gradually wear out, which does not greatly affect the cutting efficiency, but reduces the possibilities for cutting volumetric parts. Their life cycle amounts to several dozen cuts.

Mounting machine with abrasive disc.

They are prone to displacement and slight changes in shape, and this is a significant drawback with increased requirements for cutting accuracy. Such wheels are better suited for processing materials with high hardness, but wood, plastic or non-ferrous metals are difficult to cut.

Which saw to choose and what to pay attention to

This article is not intended to in any way change the buyer's opinion or advertise a particular brand. We rely exclusively on the reliability of the tool and quality that has been tested in practice. In addition to professional units, we included in the rating assembly saws, which are more often used at the household level (in home workshops, garages, etc.). But this does not mean that such cutting machines are of lower quality. It’s just that, as a rule, models with lower engine power, and therefore lower productivity, fall into the category of household saws.

Cutting disc for metal Makita 355 mm (B-10665-5) Source rozetka.com.ua

To decide whether to buy a saw for a home workshop or for large-scale production, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

Cutting depth. This is one of the main parameters by which household and professional saws differ. For a home workshop, as a rule, 50-70 mm is sufficient, while for a large enterprise this possibility will reach up to 200 mm.
Automation in control. The “smart saw” allows you to achieve high precision in cutting workpieces. In addition, such control maintains a constant disk rotation speed, but this requires sufficient power.
Availability of soft start. This option is present in the vast majority of modern cutting power tools (even grinders). Its absence can cause not only inconvenience, but also problems when working with metal.
Reaction to engine overload. Such a sensor protects tool components from overheating, therefore increasing the service life.
Type of cutting disc. Cutting metal differs from other materials because the process of melting the edges occurs here. Therefore, the disk must be resistant to mechanical loads of this type.