What Is an Electric Rotary Cutter?
An electric rotary cutter is a cutting tool that uses electric power to cut wood, metal, plastic, cardboard, carpets, and other items that are difficult to cut by hand using ordinary cutters.
This does not include chain saws and circular saws but usually refers to multi-cutters and reciprocating saws. A multi-cutter has a disk-shaped blade that rotates vertically and is set at the end of the main body to cut by the rotational force of the blade. A reciprocating saw is set with a short saw blade at the end of the main body and the blade moves back and forth to cut.
Multi-cutters are used for cutting soft materials while reciprocating saws are generally used for cutting hard materials.
Uses of Electric Rotary Cutters
The main applications of multi-cutters and reciprocating saws are as follows.
- Multi-Cutter
Cuts materials with a disk-shaped blade that rotates vertically. It is suitable for cutting soft sheet materials. To use, insert the material to be cut between the blades. The rotating force of the blades cuts the material.
The cut line markings allow you to cut while checking the cutting position, thus enabling accurate cutting at the correct position.
The multi-cutter can cut sheet (plate) objects. The multi-cutter can also cut metal objects, such as wiring cords and wires. Furthermore, the blade does not need to be sharpened because it has an automatic sharpening function that uses the rotation of the blade. - Reciprocating Saw (Sometimes Called a “saber saw”)
The blade moves back and forth to cut materials. It has more cutting power than a jigsaw, which also cuts with a reciprocating motion. Reciprocating saws can change blades depending on the material to be cut. The long and narrow shape of the saw also allows it to work in tight spaces. It is ideal for demolition work in sheds and warehouses, cutting pipes, etc. Small reciprocating saws with a rechargeable battery can be worked with one hand. They are often used for pruning trees and demolishing large debris.
How to Choose Electric Rotary Cutters
Depending on the case to be cut, refer to the following:
- Metal
Check the type and thickness of the metal to be cut. There are differences in cutting thickness depending on the type of metal (steel plate, stainless steel, aluminum). Also, a certain amount of force is required even with electric power. Select a product equipped with safety measures (lock function and vibration reduction function) for cutting. - Lumber
When used for DIY purposes such as furniture assembly and pruning of garden trees, it is necessary to use the tool for a long period. Therefore, it is best to choose a product with a grip-shaped handle for easy operation and a long continuous operating time. - Plastic
Ease of handling is the key point. When used for cutting small parts, a compact and lightweight product is preferable. Lightweight products (around 2 lbs) are recommended so as not to become a workload. - Cloth and Leather
When cutting cloth or leather products, the material will sag, so you need to cut cleanly while keeping one hand firmly on the cloth. Choose a product (weight and shape) that does not tire your arm with one hand.
Overall, also check the availability of a cord (power, duration of use, and location of use), the type of replacement blade included, and the optional blade.