When it comes to selecting the correct circular saw blade, you can notice that there are various types of blades and each type of blade has different tooth designs and tooth counts for different purposes. In this article, we’ll explain everything about circular saw blade teeth. Hopefully, you’ll have a sharpened understanding of the teeth and select the right blade for your next project.

Tooth Count

Tooth count is the number of teeth a circular saw blade has. Generally, having more teeth means smoother and cleaner cuts, but requires saw motors with more power. Tooth count varies depending on the applications and cutting materials. Therefore, when selecting a blade, you should determine the application of your blade and what material it will cut.

Ripping or crosscutting?

Ripping requires fewer teeth than crosscutting. The tooth count of a ripping blade is usually between 24 to 40, while the tooth count of a crosscutting blade is between 60 to 80. If you need a blade that can perform both ripping and crosscutting, you can choose a combination/general-purpose blade with a tooth count of 40 to 60.

Cutting materials

Hardwood requires a circular saw blade with fewer teeth and softwood needs a blade with more teeth for smoother cuts.

Tooth Grind 

Tooth grind refers to the design and shape of the tooth. Tooth grind is another crucial factor you should consider when selecting a blade. Different tooth grinds are designed for different purposes. The following are the most frequently used tooth grinds.

ATB – Alternate Top Bevel

ATB consists of teeth with alternately bevel tops. The angle of the bevel varies between 10 to 20 degrees. ATB tooth grind is often regarded as an all-purpose grind because it is a versatile grind and can be seen on many types of circular saw blades. It is perfect for crosscuts, and can also be used for rip cuts. ATB blades are suitable for cutting sold wood and veneered plywood.

ATBR – Alternate Top Bevel with Raker

ATBR tooth grind is also an all-purpose grind. It comprises repeating sets of 5 teeth: 4 ATB teeth with a flat-top raker/teeth. ATBR is also more suitable for crosscuts and works fine on rip cuts.

TCG – Triple Chip Grind

TCG consists of a trapezoid tooth followed by a flat-top tooth. This tooth design produces little sawdust and tear-out, making it a perfect choice for cutting MDF, laminates, chipboard, hardwood, plastics, solid surface, and non-ferrous metals.

FTG – Flat Top Grind

FTG tooth grind contains flat-top teeth and it is perfect for ripping. Blades with FTG are capable of making efficient and fast cuts. Since FTG teeth are completely flat, they are ideal for creating grooves.

Konetool is a reliable supplier of industrial-quality circular saw blades. We have rich experience in trading with clients all over the world. If you’re looking for a new supplier of circular saw blades for your business, please don’t hesitate to contact us at: [email protected].