Trying to figure out the mechanics behind how a chainsaw functions? You have come to the right place, here you will find everything you can know about the different parts of a chainsaw!
Now you may own a chainsaw or might be thinking to purchase one, you should have a fair idea about how this power-tool works and what are the different parts. You must be wondering, how complicated it can be to use a chainsaw?
Well, you will be surprised to know that apart from the handles and engine it will be in your benefit to learn about what other parts are there and where they are situated.
Luckily for you, we have created this extensive review to help you understand all there is you can learn about the different parts of a chainsaw, how every part has its unique functionality and how they all operate together.
By the way, you should also check out the top-rated chainsaws in the market, in case if you are looking to purchase one.
Since, are different types of chainsaws, cordless, electrically, or gas-powered. While the power source might be different, they have the same purpose and operate the same way.
However, every manufacturer offers its design, and not every part will be in the same location in every chainsaw which you should keep in mind.
Therefore, when you are exploring the different parts of a chainsaw don’t panic when you can’t find a part where we said it is located.
Truth be told, in this review we have mentioned only the most important different parts of a chainsaw which we think you should know about and will benefit from learning.
Time to scroll below to find each intricate detail about the different parts of a chainsaw.
What are the Different Parts of a Chainsaw?
- Chain
Let’s start with the easiest part first, the chain is the most important part of a chainsaw because it is what does the cutting. It has sharp teeth which are at a distance (pitch) and also at a specific width (gauge.)
You should know that every chainsaw makes use of a particular sized chain and because chainsaws are not universal it is highly likely that the chain size variers from a chainsaw to a chainsaw.
- Chain Tensioner
We think you should get familiarized with everything you can when it comes to the chain before we start talking about the other different parts of a chainsaw. Now the chain tensioner is what controls the tension on the guide bar (you can read about it below.)
For instance, when the chain is loose there is a risk of it falling off and when the chain is too tight it can affect how fast it can spin. The chain tensioner is there to keep proper tension to ensure the chainsaw cuts smoothly.
- Chain Brake
A chain brake is a very imperative safety feature that is necessary and a requirement under the Safety Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA.) It is the chain brake that stops the chain from spinning in case of sudden kickback.
What is a kickback? It is a fast upward thrust of the blade towards the operator, this happens when suddenly the chain tip gets pinched or nicked.
The chain brake prevents serious injuries to the user. Now a chain brake can be automatic or manual. A manual chain brake involves a handguard that gets pressed when a kickback occurs and an automatic chain brake is inertia activated which is an automatic response dependent on force.
- Chain Catcher
Another safety requirement by OSHA is a chain catcher. It is a very imperative safety part in a chainsaw because it is designed as a special guard in a situation when the chain breaks while it is spinning. It is the chain catcher that protects the operator from serious injuries if the chain snaps.
- Guide Bar
You must be wondering what a guide bar is because we mentioned it above about a chain tensioner. On every chainsaw there is a guide bar, it is a metal bar on which the chain spins around without a guide bar a chainsaw won’t be a chainsaw.
It is an important part because it holds the chain in place when you are using a chainsaw to cut firewoods or for some other purpose. It also keeps the chain straight when the chainsaw is being used for seamless operations.
- Clutch
Now that you understand that the guide bar keeps the chain in place, you need to learn what a clutch does. A clutch is attached to the chain sprocket and it is the clutch that controls the spinning chain on the guide bar.
- Throttle
Every chainsaw comes with a speed control option, and it is the throttle that controls the speed of the chain. The throttle is also another safety feature requirement. If the chainsaw is gas-powered the throttle is responsible for regulating the amount of fuel reaching the combustion cylinders.
In an electrically or battery-powered chainsaw, the amount of amperage reaching the motor is controlled by the throttle. Just keep in mind, the more the fuel/amperage the more the speed/power.
- Throttle Interlock
Since we have mentioned the throttle above, you should also know about the throttle interlock. A throttle interlock is what prevents the throttle from accidental activation.
Before you activate the throttle, you have to unlock it by pressing the throttle interlock. It is one of the different parts of a chainsaw and another safety feature requirement under OSHA.
- Handguard
Another important part of a chainsaw and a requirement by OSHA. It is a shield that is designed to protect the hands of the person who is using a chainsaw from flying debris while the chainsaw is being used. Moreover, it is also an added protection from the spinning chain.
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- Anti-Vibration System
A chainsaw is a very powerful tool and comes with some safety-concerns when used.
The OSHA has some requirements that need to be followed by the manufacturers and an anti-vibration system is another feature that comes in all chainsaws.
It is designed to reduce the potential stress transferred to the operator’s hand when it is used. It absorbs the vibrations occurring by the engine and efficiently protects the operator’s hands, joints, and arms from stress.
- Bucking Spikes
Bucking spikes are also called “dogs” or “bumper spikes.” One of the many different parts of the chainsaw, bucking spikes help in digging the chainsaw into the wood to achieve straighter cuts.
This part also provides prevention in case if there is a kickback when the chainsaw is being used by the operator.
- Decompression Valve
A decompression valve is a part that is found in a gas-powered chainsaw and it releases the compression from the combustion chamber when it is being started. It makes the startup process easier and smoother when the starter-rope is being pulled by the operator.
In case if you are looking for a gas-powered chainsaw then we recommend you check out this fantastic buying guide on the best gas chainsaw for the money.
- Muffler
Another part that is found in gas-powered chainsaws. It is essential because it is the muffler that reduces the noise levels. We all are aware of the fact that chainsaws are an extremely noisy power-tool and gas-powered chainsaws are noisier in comparison to electrically-powered chainsaws which is why a muffler is necessary.
It will be impossible to operate a chainsaw without damaging your hearing if a chainsaw doesn’t have a muffler.
- Air Filter
An air filter is a part of the engine, it protects it from clogs by dirt or sawdust. It is present in both an electrically-powered and gas-powered chainsaw.
However, in a gas-powered chainsaw the engine requires a combination of air and fuel, the air filter helps in filtering the air to ensure clean air flows easily flows through the engine.
Conclusion
In this review of the different parts of the chainsaw, we have tried to mention some of the most important parts of a chainsaw that you should be aware of when you are about to use a chainsaw.
Chainsaws are a very powerful tool and having some knowledge will help you in operating it. Since chainsaws have a lot of different complex parts for their smooth functionality, it is impossible to go into the very tiny details of every part.
But, we have made sure you can get to know as much as possible!
