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Details the technical specifications and key features of the HT14 Slab Saw, including dimensions and components.
Instructions for checking the saw upon arrival, verifying components, and initial setup steps before operation.
Guides on how to properly install the belt guard over the motor and pulleys for safety and operation.
Explains the type of coolant needed, the quantity required, and how to maintain the correct oil level for cutting.
Details when to sharpen the blade, how often, and signs indicating the need for sharpening for optimal performance.
Step-by-step guide on safely removing and installing a new diamond blade, including flange and nut tightening.
A checklist of essential tasks to perform before starting the HT14 slab saw for safe and effective operation.
Detailed steps for clamping material in the vise and initiating the first cut on the HT14 slab saw.
Explanation of the 'Safe Start System' and how to correctly start and stop the saw to prevent accidental activation.
Details the one-year warranty coverage for diamond blades and core bits, excluding specific types of damage.
Covers the 90-day warranty period for separately purchased polishing tools and motors.
Provides contact details, website, and YouTube channel for obtaining support, parts, and tutorials.
The Highland Park HT14 Slab Saw is a precision lapidary machine designed for producing consistent, high-quality slabs of gemstone material. It is engineered to provide uniform, flat, and smooth cuts when used with the appropriate blade and cutting fluid. A key advantage of this 14-inch slab saw is its narrower blade width compared to larger machines, which minimizes material loss during cutting.
The HT14 Slab Saw operates by using a diamond blade to cut through rough lapidary material. It features an automatic powerfeed system that moves the workpiece into the blade at a controlled rate, ensuring consistent slab thickness. A "Safe Start System" is integrated to reduce the risk of accidental startup, requiring specific steps to initiate operation. The saw also includes an automatic cut-off switch, adjustable via a trip chain, which shuts off the saw after a predetermined length of cut. Proper cooling of the blade and material is maintained by a mineral oil cutting fluid, which is essential for optimal performance and longevity of both the blade and the machine.
The HT14 Slab Saw arrives assembled, with the motor shipped separately for user installation. Before operation, users must install the motor, belt guard, and blade, and ensure the saw is securely mounted on a strong, level workbench capable of supporting its 145 lbs weight plus oil and rock. A critical step before first use is adding a low-viscosity (5 to 7cst) mineral oil cutting fluid, such as Highland Park HPCool Cut™, to the saw box. The oil level should immerse the bottom of the blade by 1½ inches and be maintained during use. Water or water-soluble oils are explicitly prohibited as coolants, as they can cause excessive heat, damage the blade and material, rust key components, and void the warranty.
To begin cutting, the hood is opened, and the carriage feed lever is disengaged to manually position the carriage. Rough material is secured in the vise, with wood shims recommended for irregularly shaped rocks to ensure secure clamping. The maximum rock size that can be cut is 4.5" X 7", with users advised to check for clearance to prevent contact with the arbor nut or flange. The crossfeed of the vise is moved to the maximum right-hand position by turning the handle counter-clockwise to prepare for the first cut. The slab vise bar is lowered to contact the rock, and thumb screws are tightened securely. For sloping rock surfaces, a "notch" cutting procedure is recommended, involving short, repeated contacts between the blade and rock to create a flat starting surface, preventing blade deflection and damage.
The "Safe Start System" requires closing the hood, setting the auto shutoff toggle switch to "on," and then pushing and releasing the green start button. The saw will run as long as the toggle switch is in the "on" position. If the toggle switch is turned off manually or by the auto shut-off chain, the green button must be pushed again to restart the saw. This system prevents accidental startup if the toggle switch is moved to "on" while loading or unloading. The green button is a safety interlock, not an emergency off switch; for emergency stops, the toggle switch must be moved to the "off" position.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the HT14 Slab Saw's performance and longevity.
The HT14 Slab Saw is backed by a one-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with specific exclusions for misuse, improper service, damage during transit, alterations, or use with unapproved materials or blades. Diamond blades are warranted for one year against material defects, while polishing tools and separately purchased motors have 90-day warranties.
General| Brand | Highland Park Lapidary |
|---|---|
| Model | HT14 |
| Category | Saw |
| Language | English |
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