Sawmill Operation
Cutting the Log
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3-29 doc072221 Sawmill Operation
3.24 Cutting the Log
The following steps guide you through normal operation of the LX50 sawmill.
1. Once the log is placed where you want it and clamped firmly, position the blade close to the end of
the log.
2. Use the blade height scale to determine where to make your first cut. Set the blade to the desired
height. Make sure that the blade will clear the clamps and side supports.
3. Make sure all covers and guards are in place and secured. Start the motor/engine.
4. Feed the blade into the log slowly. Once the blade completely enters the log, increase the feed rate
as desired. Always try to cut at the fastest speed you can while keeping an accurate cut. Cutting too
slowly will waste blade life and lower production!
5. As you get to the end of the log, slow down the feed rate. When the teeth exit the end of the log:
release the safety handle to stop the blade (electric sawmill version), or disengage the tensioner
handle and set the throttle lever in SLOW position (gas sawmill version). Remove the slab that you
have just cut from the log.
6. Return the saw head to the front of the sawmill Always disengage the blade before returning the saw
head for the next cut.
7. Repeat until the first side of the log is cut as desired. Set aside the usable flitches (boards with bark
on one or both sides). You can edge them on the mill later.
8. If the leveling wedge was used, remove it from the sawmill bed. Release the clamps and turn the log
90 or 180 degrees. Make sure the flat side of the log is placed against the side supports if the log
was turned 90 degrees. If the log was turned 180 degrees, its flat side should rest on the bed rails.
If the log was turned 90 degrees and it is necessary to level it on the bed, follow the leveling
instructions below.
9. Repeat the steps used to cut the first side of the log until the log is square. Then cut boards from the
cant.
Example: Remember that the blade cuts a 2 mm (0.08") wide kerf. If you want to get 25 mm (1")
thick boards, lower the carriage 27 mm (1 1/16") for each board.