A carbide chainsaw chain is a chainsaw chain that has small, sharp pieces of tungsten carbide welded to the cutting edge of each tooth.
Carbide chainsaw chains are used when cutting through hard materials, such as metal or concrete, and need to be sharpened less often than standard chainsaw chains.
However, even carbide chainsaw chains need to be sharpened occasionally and can be sharpened with a standard chainsaw chain sharpener.
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Why sharpen your chainsaw chain?
There are many reasons to sharpen your chainsaw chain. A sharp chain will cut through wood more easily than a dull chain, and it will also be less likely to bind up while you’re cutting.
In addition, a sharp chain is less likely to kick back when it comes into contact with a hard object. Finally, a sharp chain will last longer than a dull chain, so you’ll save money in the long run.
How to sharpen a chainsaw chain with a manual sharpener
A chainsaw chain is dull when it no longer cuts wood as easily as it did when it was new. A chainsaw with a dull chain is more difficult to use and can be dangerous. You can sharpen a chainsaw chain with a manual sharpener.
To sharpen a chainsaw chain with a manual sharpener, you will need:
- A chainsaw chain
- A manual sharpener
- A vise or clamp
Steps:
- Place the chainsaw chain in the vise or clamp so that the cutting edge of the chain is facing up.
- Insert the point of the sharpener into the groove on the side of the cutter and push down until the blade touches the cutter.
- Draw the blade of the sharpener towards you while still pushing down on the cutter with your other hand.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the chain has sharpened to your satisfaction.
- Turn the cutter around and sharpen the other side of the chain. 6. Repeat the process with the remaining chain.
How to sharpen a carbide chainsaw chain with an electric sharpener
When it comes to chainsaw maintenance, sharpening the chain is one of the most important steps. You can use an electric sharpener to get the job done right. Here are the steps:
- Make sure that the chainsaw is unplugged and cooled down before you start sharpening.
- Open up the chain guard and remove the bar and chain from the saw.
- Layout your sharpening stones in order of coarseness, starting with the finest on one end and progressing to the coarsest on the other end.
- Place the chain on the stone so that all of the teeth are touching it.
- Push and pull the chain along the stone in a forward motion 10-12 times, making sure to keep it flat against the stone at all times.
- Repeat step 5 on the other side.
- Now pat the chain dry and place it back in the saw, making sure that all of the teeth are touching the bar at all times.
- Place the bar on the stone and repeat steps 5 & 6.
- Repeat step 8 on the other side of the chain.
- Finish by patting dry again, then place back into the saw with all of the teeth touching the bar at all times.
- Tie a knot at the end of the chain.
- You’re all done! Let it sit in the saw with all of the teeth touching the bar for 24 hours to make sure that any grit from your workpiece doesn’t settle on it and cause rust.
Things to avoid while sharpening your chainsaw chain
Chainsaw chains can become dull quickly if they are not properly taken care of. One of the biggest mistakes people make when sharpening their chainsaw chain is doing it wrong. There are a few things to avoid while sharpening your chainsaw chain in order to get the best results.[1]
Don’t over-tighten the chain
A chainsaw is a powerful tool that can make short work of cutting down trees or large branches. However, it is important to keep the chain sharpened so that it cuts smoothly and efficiently. One way to ensure the chain stays sharp is to not over-tighten it.
Don’t use the wrong file size
The wrong file size can cause your chainsaw chain to become dull and ineffective. A chainsaw chain with a dull blade will make it more difficult to cut through wood, and can also be dangerous. In order to keep your chainsaw chain sharp, you should use the correct file size for your specific saw.
Don’t sharpen in the wrong direction
When sharpening a chainsaw chain, it is important to sharpen in the correct direction. If you sharpen in the wrong direction, the chain will not cut properly and could damage the saw. To sharpen a carbide chainsaw chain, you will need a chainsaw file, a chainsaw sharpener, and some patience. First, adjust the chainsaw sharpener to the correct angle.
Don’t sharpen too much at once
When it comes to sharpening a chainsaw chain, there are a lot of things to consider. One of the most important is how often you sharpen it. You don’t want to sharpen too much at once, as this can wear down the chain and make it difficult to cut. You also don’t want to sharpen too little, as this can cause the chain to become dull and ineffective.
Don’t use the chainsaw while it’s sharpening
A chainsaw is an essential tool for many homeowners, but it’s important to keep it in good condition. One way to do that is by sharpening the chain regularly. You can do this with a grinding wheel or a chainsaw file.
Always use caution when sharpening a chainsaw chain. Never use the chainsaw while it’s sharpening. Also, be sure to wear proper safety gear, including eye protection and gloves.[2]
Don’t sharpen with a dull file
It’s no secret that a sharp chainsaw chain is important for a safe and efficient cutting experience. In fact, a dull chainsaw chain can be downright dangerous. This is why it’s so important to keep your chain sharp by using a quality chainsaw file. However, using a dull chainsaw file to sharpen your chain will only make the problem worse.
Final Thought
Sharpening a carbide chainsaw chain is not difficult. There are a few steps that need to be followed in order to get the best results.
Make sure to use the right tools and take your time. With a little practice, you will be able to sharpen your chainsaw chain like a pro!
You might like our guide on A Simple Guide On How To Untangle Chainsaw Chain.