Overview of chain saws: design features, advantages, selection criteria, reliability rating
Multifunctionality, practicality, comfort in operation - thanks to these characteristics, the electric chain saw has gained popularity among the population. The tool is in demand, both on an industrial scale, and in numerous private farms (in dachas, garden plots, and so on). As an alternative to low power chainsaws, the power tool is designed for cutting all types of wood. Electric chain saws are successfully used on construction sites, for example, for the manufacture of a roof frame, in private households - harvesting firewood, cutting trees with a trunk diameter of no more than 40 cm, spring pruning of branches, and so on. We will figure out how to choose the right tool, consider the device of an electrical appliance, present a rating of reliable units, and also clarify other related issues.
One of the main advantages of the chain saw is the absence of exhaust gases during operation. This feature allows the use of the power tool in enclosed spaces without damage to the user's health.
Electric chain saw device
- electric motor;
- removable tire;
- chain with a drive sprocket;
- chain tensioning system;
- direct drive, if the motor of the unit is located transversely, or a bevel gearbox when the motor is installed longitudinally;
- lubrication system;
- brake system (safety shield, thermal relay);
- handles, power cord.
The conclusions of experts and consumer reviews eloquently indicate that chain saws with a transverse engine are preferable. Such a power tool is more comfortable to use and less tiresome to the user during work.
How to choose the right electric chain saw?
As part of the answer to the question of how to choose an electric chain saw, it should be noted, before purchasing a power tool, it is necessary to clearly understand in what conditions the operation is supposed. The cost of the tool ranges from 2 to 25 thousand rubles. Naturally, buying a unit from an unknown manufacturer from your hands is literally purchasing a disposable electrical appliance. It is also impractical to throw out a large sum on a professional tool, the potential of which is obviously never in demand. A long service life and a maximum indicator of continuous functioning are the characteristics by which professional and household appliances are distinguished.
The motor power of light electric saws for a summer residence with an indicator of 1800 - 2000 W is the best option. A lower value contributes to the loss of revolutions during loading and heating of the tool during prolonged use. Higher motor power - heavy professional models.
So, when choosing a power tool, you need to pay attention to the following details:
- It is preferable that the motor is located longitudinally - it will allow using the tool in different planes.
- The engine power must correspond to the operating conditions, but have a margin. This is necessary so that the tool can withstand fluctuations in the mains without consequences.
- Models with soft start a priori have a longer service life, as they protect the device at maximum current values at the moment the tool is turned on.
- The presence of a start blocking system will prevent accidental switching on of the tool.
- A thermal relay in the unit will protect the tool from overheating, as it will cut off the power supply to the engine in time.
- The presence of a chain brake will help to avoid the unpleasant effect called "kickback", which occurs due to the resistance of the material with the working part of the tool.
- A chain tensioning system is required - a large nut that fixes the tire. By loosening the nut, you can move the bar by tightening the chain.
- The presence of an automatic lubrication system is also desirable. A pump that runs in conjunction with the tool motor distributes oil evenly over the entire cutting surface.
The oil consumption for the electric saw chain is 1 liter during an hour of intensive use. Therefore, it is necessary to constantly monitor the oil level in the tool in order to exclude breakdown or rapid wear of the unit.
Chain saw reliability rating
The first place in the rating of reliability of electric chain saws used in private households is rightfully taken by the model Makita UC4020A. With a weight of 4.4 kg, the motor power is 1800 W. 40 cm bar length and 3/8 inch chain pitch ensure high performance. The chain is tensioned without the use of additional tools. The rubberized handle is comfortable to grip. The tool is perfect not only for personal needs with intensive use, but also for industrial use. The disadvantage is high oil consumption.
The main cause of tool breakage is overloading the machine. In order not to spend money on spare parts for the electric chain saw, in order to carry out repairs, you should monitor the sharpness of the teeth of the working part of the tool. It is the lack of sharpness of the saw that most often leads to an overload of the device.
The second place with an almost ideal weight-to-power ratio - 3.4 kg / 1500 W, is taken by the Echo CS-600-15. The 30 cm long chain bar allows you to use the electric chain saw when tending gardens and small groves, fishing and hunting (the compact model will easily fit in the luggage compartment of a car), hiking and so on. In addition, when creating this tool, innovative technologies were used:
- forged crankshaft;
- adjustable metal oil pump;
- condenser ignition system;
- smooth start.
The only drawback is that it is not recommended for use in winter.
The third place in the ranking of reliable power tools is occupied by the model of the famous Bosch brand AKE 30 S. With a mass of 3.9 kg, the motor power is 1800 W. The relatively small 30-cm chain tire for such a unit makes the device maneuverable, allowing you to significantly expand the capabilities of the power tool. The chrome-plated electric saw chain is tensioned without the use of additional tools thanks to the SDS system.
The domestic model ENERGOMASH PC-99160 completes the rating of reliability of power tools. The budget model has a weight of 2.9 kg and an electric motor power of 1600 W. The chain pitch is 3/8 ''. The tool is equipped with a chain brake and an automatic lubrication system. The advantages include small dimensions, minimal oil consumption, ease of operation and maintenance. The disadvantages are the rapid stretching of the chain and the position of the nut inconvenient for the operator, which is responsible for tightening the working blade of the power tool.