Symptoms
- Dark scorch marks along the cut, especially on rip cuts
- Burning smell while cutting
- Blade drags rather than slicing
- Cut edges feel hot to the touch
Likely causes
- CommonDull bladeDull teeth rub instead of cutting cleanly, generating heat.
- CommonFence not parallel to the blade, pinching the woodA slightly angled fence forces the back of the blade against the wood.
- CommonFeeding the wood too slowlySlow feeding lets the blade rub in one spot longer than it should.
- PossiblePitch and resin buildup on the bladeSticky residue increases friction against the wood fibers.
- PossibleWrong blade for ripping versus crosscuttingCrosscut blades with more teeth can burn during long rip cuts.
What to do
- Unplug the saw and inspect the blade for dullness or dark, gummy buildup.
- Clean the blade with a blade cleaner or soapy water and a stiff brush if buildup is present.
- Check the fence for parallel alignment to the blade using a tape measure at the front and back.
- Switch to a rip-specific blade with fewer, larger gullets if you're doing a lot of ripping.
- Feed the material at a slightly faster, steadier pace rather than slowly forcing it through.
- Test cut on scrap to confirm the burning stops after these adjustments.
Tools and parts
- Table saw
- Blade cleaner
- Tape measure
- Rip blade
Table saw rip bladeSearch: “table saw rip blade 24 tooth”
When to call a pro
If burning continues after cleaning the blade and checking fence alignment, a repair shop can check the trunnions for misalignment.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.