2 Parts of the Table Saw
Table top
The table on a quality saw is made of cast iron, and is made up of three parts: a main table that is bolted to the saw base, and left and right extension wings that bolt to the main table. Cast iron is desirable as it is has a strong dampening effect that mitigates vibration. A properly manufactured cast iron table will also remain flat and stable. Some contractor saws have a cast iron main table and stamped steel extensions on the left and right sides as they are less inexpensive. The cast iron table must be flat as it forms the reference surface for all cuts made on the saw. The extension wings should be carefully leveled with the main table at the time of assembly, and checked periodically. They provide additional working surface area.
Mitre slot
Mitre slots are machined into the main cast iron table, and are perfectly parallel to saw blade. They are used to guide jigs such as the mitre gauge. Other manufactured or shop made jigs and fixtures are used in conjunction with the mitre slots to guide work (such as a tenon jig) or increase accuracy and safety (featherboards). There are two styles of mitre slots, plain and ‘T’ slots. The T style allows the use of hardware that will clamp in place, making it versatile for mounting fixtures or stops. Mitre slots usually measure ¾ inches wide by 3/8 to ½ inches deep.
Mitre gauge
The mitre gauge is used primarily for safe crosscutting, supporting the work at 90° to the blade. Or, the gauge may be set to cut angles from 0° to 45° or greater, depending on the gauge. The gauge will run in either mitre slot, and can be set in either direction relative to the 90° position. An auxiliary fence of plywood or MDF is recommended for both safety and quality. Sandpaper glued to the auxiliary fence can keep the workpiece from sliding during the cut. Mitre gauges are included as a standard accessory with all table saws. Some companies manufacture aftermarket miter gauges that are highly accurate and versatile, especially when used for mitres or complex angle work.
Throat plate or insert
The throat plate covers the opening in the saw table where the blade projects. It must be used for all cutting operations. The throat plate that comes as standard equipment from the manufacturer is usually made of aluminum, but may also be made of plastic or composite such as phenolic resin. Aluminum is used as it will not damage the carbide teeth of the saw blade if it contacts the blade.
Shop made throat plates are commonly used to provide zero-clearance cutting to the saw blade, or to allow the use of a dado cutter of any width. Having zero-clearance helps prevent small offcuts from getting lodged in the space between the blade and throat plate. They also increase the quality of the cut by preventing tear-out on the bottom of the cut where the blade exits the work.
The throat plate sits on four projections on the saw casting. It must be level with the surrounding table, and is adjustable by means o