The Mastercraft Wet Tile Saw, model 55-6829-4, is a power tool designed for cutting ceramic tiles with precision and ease. It operates on a 120 V AC, 60 Hz, 3.5 A motor, delivering a no-load speed of 5000 RPM. This allows for efficient and clean cuts through various types of tiles. The saw utilizes a 4 1/2" diamond-tipped tile cutting blade, specifically chosen for its durability and effectiveness in cutting hard materials like ceramic. Its maximum cutting capacity is 1" (2.5 cm), making it suitable for most standard tile thicknesses. The tool is equipped with an 8-foot, 3-prong power cord for safe and reliable electrical connection. Weighing 13 lb 3 oz (6 kg), it is relatively portable for a tile saw, allowing for easier transportation and setup. The Mastercraft Wet Tile Saw is ULUS listed, with certification number E222919 7VA7, indicating it meets recognized safety standards.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Mastercraft Wet Tile Saw is to cut ceramic tiles. Its "wet" designation means it uses water to cool the blade and minimize dust during operation. This feature is crucial for prolonging blade life, preventing overheating, and creating a cleaner, safer work environment by suppressing airborne dust particles. The saw is designed for both straight and angled cuts, including bevel cuts, offering versatility for various tiling projects.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Number: 55-6829-4
- Motor: 120 V AC, 60 Hz, 3.5 A
- Speed (no load): 5000 RPM
- Blade: 4 1/2" diamond-tipped tile cutting blade
- Cutting Capacity: 1" (2.5 cm)
- Power Cord: 8', 3-prong
- Weight: 13 lb 3 oz (6 kg)
- Certifications: ULUS listed (E222919 7VA7)
Usage Features:
The Mastercraft Wet Tile Saw incorporates several features to enhance its usability and precision:
- Work Table: The saw features a work table, with a stationary left side and a tilting right side. The tilting table is removable, facilitating blade installation/removal, water compartment access, and bevel cuts.
- Blade Guard: A blade guard assembly is included for user safety, ensuring the blade is covered during operation. It consists of a metal support and a plastic guard, secured with a bolt and knob.
- Adjustable Work Fence: An adjustable work fence slides along ruler grooves on the side of the work table. It is secured by fence knobs and is used to position and guide the workpiece for accurate cuts. It can be moved to either side of the blade for flexibility.
- 45° Mitre Gauge: A 45° mitre gauge is provided to assist in making precise angled cuts. It helps push the tile towards the blade, ensuring consistent angles.
- ON/OFF Switch: A clearly marked ON/OFF switch (I for ON, O for OFF) controls the power to the saw.
- Water Compartment: The saw has a water compartment in the base, which is filled via a port on the tilting table. A water level gauge indicates the maximum fill line, ensuring adequate water for cooling.
- Drain and Plug: A drain plug at the bottom of the water compartment allows for easy draining of water after use.
- Securing Mechanism: Two plastic sliding blocks and s-clamp supports are used to secure the saw to a work surface, preventing movement during operation.
- Bevel Cutting: The tilting table can be raised to one of three positions, supported by braces, to enable bevel cuts.
- Power Cord Storage: The power cord can be stored in a dedicated compartment on the bottom of the saw, promoting tidiness and protecting the cord.
- Drip Loop: The manual emphasizes creating a "drip loop" in the power cord to prevent water from reaching the electrical outlet, enhancing electrical safety.
Maintenance Features:
Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity and safe operation of the Mastercraft Wet Tile Saw:
- Lubrication: The tool is factory-lubricated. When necessary, only dry silicone spray should be used on pivoting or moving parts. Motor bearings and internal parts require servicing by qualified technicians.
- General Inspection: Before each use, a thorough inspection of the blade, blade guard, switch, power cord, and extension cord is recommended. Users should check for loose screws, jamming, improper mounting, broken parts, or any other condition affecting safe operation. Unusual noises or vibrations require immediate attention and correction.
- Cleaning: After each use, the water compartment must be emptied, and all areas of the saw should be cleaned and dried with a dry, clean rag.
- Chemical Avoidance: It is crucial to avoid using flammable or combustible solvents, harsh chemicals, petroleum-based products, brake fluid, thinners, and ammonia detergents for cleaning, as these can damage plastic and insulated parts.
- Replacement Parts: When servicing, only identical Mastercraft® replacement parts should be used to prevent product failure or hazards. A detailed replacement parts list with key numbers is provided in the manual.
- Professional Servicing: Any servicing beyond basic cleaning and lubrication, especially involving internal components, should be performed by a qualified service technician.
Safety Guidelines:
The manual stresses the importance of safety, including:
- Reading and understanding the entire instruction manual before operation.
- Wearing eye protection (safety goggles) and a face mask/dust mask.
- Avoiding loose clothing, gloves, neckties, or jewelry.
- Keeping the work area clean, well-lit, and free of bystanders.
- Ensuring the saw is properly grounded and using appropriate extension cords.
- Never operating the tool "free hand" and always using the adjustable work fence.
- Keeping hands out of the line of the saw blade and never reaching over the cutting area.
- Turning off the saw before making adjustments, changing parts, or cleaning.
- Never leaving the saw running unattended.