Do-it-yourself desktop jigsaw. DIY jigsaw table - Patchwork How to make a manual jigsaw at home

After the electric drill and grinder, the jigsaw takes third place in everyone’s arsenal. home handyman. This versatile tool frees you from exhausting work and turns work into pleasure. The use of a jigsaw improves the quality of the cut and the speed of processing the part. With the ability to use a tool, it becomes reliable assistant at a construction site and at the dacha, but this does not mean that sooner or later it will not need repairs. Fortunately, many problems can be corrected with your own hands.

Jigsaw device, application, additional features

A jigsaw is a tool designed for sawing materials using a special blade, which is driven by a reciprocating mechanism.

Jigsaw device

1. An electronic unit that performs the functions of soft start and speed control.
2. Electric motor, usually of the commutator type. Driven by alternating mains current, or DC battery
3. Start button with working position lock.
4. A gearbox that converts the rotation of the electric motor rotor into translational movement of the rod. At the end of the rod there is a socket for attaching a file.
5. Ventilation pipe for removal of sawdust and shavings during operation. The diameter of the nozzle matches the dimensions of the vacuum cleaner hose.
6. Support platform. The angle of inclination in the vertical axis is adjustable, making it possible to make cuts at any desired angle.
7. Pendulum device. Used for accelerated sawing of materials. Structurally, in addition to the movement of the saw in the vertical axis, vibrations are added in the horizontal plane. As a result, the cutting speed increases, although the quality may decrease.
8. Support roller. Serves to compensate for vibration and beating of the saw, and performs a stabilizing function.
9. The cartridge in which it is attached cutting blade. In many modern models A quick blade replacement system is used, with which replacement is carried out without the use of additional tools.
10. Working rod. It is a metal rod that transmits movement from the gearbox to the saw blade.

The first prototype of an electric jigsaw was assembled by the Swiss engineer A. Kaufman, who in 1946 had the idea to replace the needle in a sewing machine with a saw blade. Scintilla AG adopted the original invention, and already in 1947 the Lesto jigsaw appeared on the market. After 7 years, the company was absorbed by Bosch, and the name of the tool was changed to Bosch jigsaw.

Electric jigsaws are divided into two types:

• stationary;
• manual.

The first ones are installed on a frame and, compared to manual ones, have larger dimensions and productivity.

Stationary electric jigsaw "Corvette"

The second ones are lightweight and portable, widely used in construction and household. Manual ones can be mains or battery-powered, depending on the type of power supply.

Portable hand jigsaw

Manual jigsaws have a number of advantages that have made the tool so popular among users.

1. Wide range of applications. The industry produces a huge variety of saw blades various shapes, length and shape of the tooth. Thanks to this, the jigsaw has become an almost universal tool that can be used to process any materials - from wood to plastic.
2. Modern jigsaws are capable of sawing wood up to a depth of 160 mm, non-ferrous metals up to 30 mm, steel up to 10 mm. These are very good indicators, especially considering that the seam remains even and corresponds to the specified dimensions.
3. Possibility of curved cuts with an internal radius of 12 mm.
4. Thanks to the design, in which the blade is fixed at only one end, you can cut anywhere. The thickness of the blade allows you to work with any materials without the risk of breaking the file. If there is a need to make a cut without touching the edge of the workpiece, it is enough to make a hole to insert the file. And a file can cut into some soft types of wood even without drilling.

We also list the disadvantages that are inherent in this tool.

1. Presence of idle speed. The file works only when moving upward, in the direction where the teeth are “aimed.” Reverse stroke is idle. This results in reduced productivity (compared to tools such as circular saws, band saws or chain saws).
2. Risk of injury during work. The canvas cannot be hidden; it is always in open position. That is why it is necessary to be careful and not trust sawing to minor children.
3. The blade stroke is short, which makes it difficult to remove chips, especially when cutting thick workpieces. In an ordinary jigsaw, this stroke ranges from 16 to 24 mm. When processing wood parts, the sawing speed drops noticeably.
4. A jigsaw cannot achieve the same results as a hand tool. This is due to the fact that the file is attached to one end and cannot be as thin. As a result, the turning radius of a manual jigsaw is much smaller.

Equipment: types of replaceable files, their markings

In order to understand the great variety of files offered by manufacturers, you will have to take a closer look at their labeling. Fortunately, there are international standards, according to which each letter and number on the shank of the file conveys certain information.

The letters T and U indicate the shape of the file attachment. The first means that the mount is T-shaped, the second that it is U-shaped

Types of saw attachment: T-shank on the right, U-shank on the left

• 1-leaf length up to 75mm;
• 2-length up to 90mm;
• 3-length up to 150 mm;
• 7-length over 150 mm.

The following letters indicate tooth size:

• A - small tooth, inherent in all metal files;
• B - larger, usually this is the size they cut plywood, chipboard or fiberboard;
• C and D - files with large teeth, intended for preparatory cutting; the quality of the cut is low.

Additional information is contained in the letters written at the very end of the marking:

• F - bimetallic saws;
• R - saws that have a “reverse tooth pointing downwards;
• X - designation of a universal saw intended for sawing metal, wood and plastic;
• O - files for curved cutting, for example a circle, an oval, etc.;
• P - reinforced blades, the thickness of which is greater than standard, mainly for precise cutting.

In addition to this information, inscriptions are displayed on the blade that indicate the type of material for which the file is intended……..

And also - marking of the steel from which the blade is made:

• HM/TC - saw blades made of carbide materials;
• HSS - designation for tool or high-speed steel;
• BiM - bimetallic base material;
• HCS - marking of high carbon steel.

The choice of file directly depends on the material of the workpiece. The fabric should not be used for other purposes. This will negatively affect both the workpiece itself and the file.

Color coding Bosch blades

Separately from all modifications, it can be noted saw blade, intended for cutting tiles and ceramic tiles. Instead of traditional teeth, there is a coating of tungsten carbide chips on its working edge. Such a file will not “master” wood or metal. But it will cope perfectly with the function of a tile cutter.

Blade designed for cutting ceramics

Installation and replacement of files is carried out with the electrical appliance unplugged, so that accidentally pressing a button does not cause harm to your hands. Depending on the jigsaw model, there may be screw and quick-release chucks. As a rule, the majority modern instruments have a clamping chuck for the T-shaped shank of the file. The canvas is inserted into it by lightly pressing until the lock clicks into place. U-shaped models are equipped with a special screw clamp that requires hand tightening. Some experts consider this type of fastening more reliable. However, they can be found less and less often.

Fastening the blade with a screw clamp

How to check and set up a jigsaw before work, types of modes, speed switching, pendulum function

Before starting work, you need to check the functionality of the jigsaw, insert a file suitable for the given material, and set the mode that is optimal for solving the task. The best advisor in these matters will be the instruction manual included with the jigsaw. Depending on the model, there may be various nuances. However, the general process of preparing a jigsaw for work is as follows:

1. Installing the file into the rod lock.
2. Setting the speed of the saw using a switch on the handle.
3. Enable/disable pendulum mode.
4. Connecting power via a plug cord.
5. Press the start button, start the engine and start sawing.

If you need to change the speed or reduce/increase the pendulum frequency, you must remove your finger from the start button and wait until the engine stops completely. Only after this the desired mode is set.

Switching speeds and pendulum stroke without turning off the engine will very soon lead to gearbox failure and tool failure.

For those who are new to the operation of a jigsaw, it will be useful to know that high speeds are used for soft wood, but are not suitable for plastic (which can melt from friction of the blade) and for metal. It is best to start cutting with a medium mode, and then adjust it to specific needs - speed, cutting accuracy, etc. For particularly precise sawing, the pendulum device can be switched off completely.

What jigsaw accessories and tool improvements can you make yourself?

Of the most common home improvements for a jigsaw, two simple additions have worked well. Any user can do them independently.

The only drawback of this device is that when the saw moves upward, it lifts the part and therefore the workpiece must be held firmly in your hands. You can improve the design and add a pressure bar to the cutting unit.

Improved design homemade table for jigsaw

This design makes it convenient to connect a vacuum cleaner to remove chips.

The vacuum cleaner is connected through a hole in the table wall

Video: how to upgrade a jigsaw

In order for the jigsaw to work for a long time and you can always rely on it, it is important to follow simple rules.

How to use: operating instructions and safety precautions

1. If the cutting speed needs to be increased, there is no need to put pressure on the jigsaw handle and “adjust” it. It is better to adjust the rotation mode of the motor and pendulum. The correct selection of the file is also important.
2. The workpiece must be securely mounted on the workbench. You should never saw while holding the workpiece suspended in your hands. Good fasteners will give good results - cutting accuracy, speed and quality of sawed edges.
3. Straight cuts are made using a ruler that is included with the jigsaw (linear clamp).
4. Round holes and curved lines on thin plywood or plastic are cut better when the jigsaw is fixed with the blade up and the part is fed to cutting tool. Smooth circles can be made using a circle cutter.
5. Make an incision on a thin metal surface It is much more convenient if you put plywood under the sheet. This will prevent the edges of the metal from deforming.
6. If there is a noticeable decrease in sawing speed, it is recommended to immediately replace the saw blade. Prolonged use of a dull blade will cause overheating of the engine with all the ensuing consequences.
7. If the cut needs to be made at an angle, the support sole is shifted by the required number of degrees.
8. When working in cold weather, it is advisable to run the engine for 1–2 minutes. Idling. After this, you can work in load mode.
9. Take breaks from work whenever possible. Stop for 5-10 minutes every half hour.

We also list the basic safety rules.

1. When working, it is recommended to wear work clothing that does not have fluttering hems or dangling sleeves. Hair must be tucked under a headdress. Body position is stable.
2. Do not slow down the movement of the saw with your hands or a clamp.
3. It is unacceptable to leave a switched on and working tool unattended.
4. Use the tool only for its intended purpose. Do not hammer nails with a saw.
5. If you discover damage to the housing or other functional breakdowns, you need to stop working and fix the problem.
6. Turning on and off power cord Only performed when the engine is off.
7. Do not allow minor children to play with the instrument. Is it dangerous.

How to properly cut various materials with a jigsaw

With practice and experience comes knowledge. But at first, a novice user will need information on how and with what to cut different parts.

1. Wood, plywood and laminate are the main materials that a jigsaw is designed to cut. If the cut is rough, you can use high speeds and oscillations of the pendulum. This will increase speed but reduce quality and accuracy. Precise sections, depending on the density of the material, are sawed at medium speeds, with the pendulum turned off. This is especially true for laminate if it is precisely adjusted. On a six-point scale - 5.6.
2. Metal parts, including pipes, are cut at low speeds without turning on the pendulum (or use the pendulum at low speed). 1.2 speed. Corrugated sheets and sheet iron are sawed at speed 1, making sure that the edges do not curl. For aluminum and other non-ferrous metals, the speed can rise to 3–4 levels.
3. Plastic and plexiglass can be cut at high speeds, but care must be taken to ensure that the material does not melt. 4–6 on a six-point scale.
4. Ceramic tiles, as well as other hard types of stone cladding, are processed at speed 4–5. The pendulum is installed in the initial positions.
5. Drywall can be cut at high speed and with maximum swing of the pendulum. A natural limitation is the level of dust. If cutting occurs indoors, the dust from cutting can be very high. And therefore the speed is reduced.

Laminate is cut at high speed with the pendulum mechanism

Jigsaw maintenance and prevention

Like anything technical device, the jigsaw needs preventative maintenance. After the warranty period has expired, you need to carry out several simple operations and the shelf life of the instrument will again be extended by a year or two, depending on the intensity of use.

1. Replace the graphite brushes on the motor commutator.
2. Inspect current-carrying conductors, including the power cord. If damage or wear is detected, replace it.
3. Clean the internal cavity of the tool from dust, debris and chips.
4. Replace the lubricant in the mechanical components - bearings and gearbox.

Today, rarely does anyone sharpen files themselves. Especially if the blade has triangular teeth, which have increased maneuverability and chip emission. It is impossible to sharpen such a tooth at home. Moreover, such attempts can lead to the jigsaw starting to beat and the vibration level to increase. Following this, the saw holder socket will break, which will lead to the appearance of play in the drive rod. A dull file is simply replaced. Fortunately, their prices are affordable.

How to disassemble a jigsaw, see the video below.

Video: Disassembling and lubricating a jigsaw

If you do not feel confident in your abilities, it is better to seek the help of specialists.

Do-it-yourself jigsaw repair: faults and their elimination

When starting a DIY repair, it is recommended to clear the desktop of foreign objects, make good lighting and prepare a camera or notebook for sketches. The jigsaw parts are cleaned with a clean rag and washed with an alcohol solution.

Problems with the electric motor, repair or replacement of the motor

The commutator type engine is quite reliable in operation and can last for many years without failure. However, he is afraid of overheating and sharp changes voltage. And if it happens that the motor fails, it is necessary to carry out correct diagnostics. To do this, we will use a multimeter - electrical measuring instrument to determine current, voltage and resistance in a circuit.

Device for determining current characteristics in a network

As you know, an engine consists of two main parts - a rotor and a stator. Each individual node is a coil that induces an electromagnetic field. If the insulation of the coils is broken, a short circuit (short circuit) occurs, which is called interturn. To identify exactly where the short circuit occurred, the resistance of the windings is checked. The multimeter contacts are installed on adjacent commutator lamellas, and the ohmmeter reading is recorded. If in any pair the resistance is significantly lower, it means that it is in this winding that the short circuit has occurred.

Sequential measurement of armature winding resistance

Replacing the armature or stator is possible provided that similar parts are commercially available. You need to buy parts from the exact company that manufactures the jigsaw.

To replace you need a set of screwdrivers, you may need spanners small sizes, pliers. To replace the rotor, you will need to remove the bearing from the working shaft. But you can purchase a shaft assembly for replacement. If this is not possible, a special puller is used to remove the bearing.

Before disassembling the jigsaw, you must make sure that the tool is unplugged.

If a conductor breakdown is detected in the stator, it must be disconnected from the jigsaw body. Fastening is carried out using screws. When installing new windings, it is important to correctly connect them to the electrical circuit.

Measuring the resistance of the coils with a multimeter, the stator windings are ringed

Video: Prevention and repair of jigsaws

Self-prevention of the instrument does not take much time. However, without it, the service life of the jigsaw is reduced.

Mechanical faults, unreliable fastening of the file, chuck repair

The two main mechanical components that are prone to malfunction are the gearbox and the saw holder. Moreover, these breakdowns are interconnected. A broken socket for fastening the blade leads to rapid wear and breakage of the gearbox. Therefore, it is important to carefully monitor the condition of the cartridge. IN different models apply various locks for files. Therefore, there are no universal recipes. One thing must always be remembered - if the file begins to hold poorly in the socket and flies out of it during operation, the saw holder cartridge must be replaced. How to do it? The video will tell.

Video: replacing the saw blade holder in a jigsaw

Other possible problems and their repair

Let's look at the typical types of breakdowns of an electric jigsaw.

Table of possible problems with an electric jigsaw

Signs of breakdown	Probable causes of failure	Troubleshooting
The jigsaw doesn't cut at all	1. Damage to external wiring. 2. Damage to internal wiring. 3. The start button is damaged.	1. Check the power cord. If necessary, repair or replace. 2. Checking the wires inside the instrument. If a break or unstable contact is detected, the wire is restored and the terminals are cleaned. 3. Power is supplied from the network directly to the electronic unit, bypassing the button. If the engine runs, then the button needs to be replaced.
The jigsaw cuts crookedly (provided that the blade is in working order)	The blade fastening cartridge is damaged.	The saw holder cartridge is removed and cleaned. If the problem cannot be resolved, the cartridge must be replaced.
The jigsaw beats during operation (provided that the pendulum mechanism is turned off)	Clogged or worn rod or pendulum mechanism	The casing is opened and the pendulum and rod are inspected. If there is excessive contamination, the mechanisms are cleaned. If the damage is mechanical in nature, the worn part is replaced.
The jigsaw does not cut under load	The electric motor is damaged. Does not develop rated power due to short circuit	The housing is disassembled, the stator and rotor of the electric motor are sequentially called. If a short circuit is detected, the damaged coil or the entire motor assembly is replaced.
High level of vibration during operation, extraneous metallic noises	1. Clogging of the gearbox, lack of lubrication on the gears. 2. Damage to the gear wheels of the gearbox.	1. The jigsaw body is disassembled. Having gained access to the gearbox, inspection and cleaning are performed. Before assembly, all parts are lubricated. 2. If the gears are damaged, broken or chipped, it is necessary to remove them from the gearbox and replace them with new ones. Clean the gearbox cavity from debris and chips and lubricate it.
During operation, the smell of burnt wiring appears, the engine speed is unstable, “floating”	Damage to wiring or motor	The entire electrical circuit of the instrument is inspected. The motor windings are checked with a multimeter. If a defect in the wires or contacts is detected, the terminals are cleaned or the conductors are replaced.
Excessive sparking of brushes on the commutator during operation	Engine brush wear	The brushes are removed from the brush holder and replaced.

If the Start button is damaged, you can briefly get out of the situation by starting the jigsaw “directly”. To do this, the wires entering the button are connected to the outgoing ones. The instrument will be turned on and off by the plug. This is not convenient, so it is better to immediately replace the start button.

If the tool is under warranty, do not rush and repair it yourself.

Opening the casing entails the loss of all manufacturer's warranty obligations.

Video: DIY jigsaw repair

Tool storage

In order for a tool to serve for a long time and properly, it is important not only to follow the rules of its operation, but also to store it correctly. The best option The contents of the jigsaw in the case from the manufacturer are considered. This suitcase is convenient both for storing spare parts and for transportation. But the instrument is not always sold with a case. In this case, you need to know that a jigsaw, like any power tool, is afraid of water and excess air humidity. Therefore, it must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated place. Cardboard or wooden box will serve as protection against mechanical damage. If the warehouse is unheated, then in the cold season, before starting work, the tool must “thaw” in warm room 20–25 minutes. During this time, the gearbox lubrication will become elastic again.

Standard case for storing and transporting a Makita jigsaw

When using a jigsaw at home, you should not neglect the rules of personal safety. While working, you cannot be distracted, talk on the phone or do other things. To protect your eyes and respiratory system, it is recommended to use a respirator and safety glasses. Application homemade nozzles justified when they do not pose a health hazard and have successfully passed preliminary tests.

Era electric tool came not with the first electric drills, but when the electric motor became an attribute of a tool with a narrower focus: scissors, hacksaws, impact wrenches and, of course, jigsaws.

Moreover, the jigsaw became one of the first in this series. Today it is one of the most popular tools in the home (and not only) workshop. And first of all, we're talking about about hand tools.

But we consider in this article jigsaw machines, and these are practically stationary devices, which often have their own specific place in the workshop, because for comfortable work they require a base with given parameters: height, so that the hand placed on the work table has a 90º bend at the elbow and stability, so that it dampens vibrations of the machine itself .

What are jigsaws used for?

Jigsaw machines are primarily designed for cutting parts or elements of complex configurations in sheet material: wood, plywood, MDF, fiberboard, chipboard, plastic, aluminum. They are also used to cut out the internal contours of products with preliminary drilling of the sawn material.

Such a tool, unlike manual or electric jigsaws, leaves both hands free for the person working on it, which greatly facilitates the work and allows it to be performed with the greatest precision. Most jigsaws, provided correct selection and installation of nail files, allow sawing even in fairly thick workpieces, with strict adherence to an angle of 90º relative to the plane of the workpiece.

Also, many models have an inclined table, which makes it possible to perform complex patterns at strictly specified angles other than straight, which is almost impossible when using manual or electric jigsaws.

Except home use, they are widely used in furniture production and manufacturing enterprises musical instruments. True, quite often they are replaced by laser machines, but the burnt edges left by the latter do not make their use widespread.

General drawing, structural features of desktop jigsaw machines

The most common layout of jigsaw machines is as follows:

It includes:

• a frame (or body) on which all components and mechanisms are mounted;
• drive, often from an electric motor via a V-belt to a crank;
• a crank mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the electric motor shaft into the reciprocating motion of the saw;
• double rocker with tensioning device and attachments for saw blades;
• desktop, sometimes with a mechanism for rotating in the horizontal plane at a given angle.

Previously, miniature jigsaw machines with a somewhat simplified design were on sale, but it was precisely because of this, which led to the rapid failure of the files due to their short stroke, that their production was discontinued.

Most currently produced desktop jigsaw machines work with files 200–350 mm long and have a working stroke of 30 to 50 mm.

The differences between the machines mainly consist in the power of the electric drive (from 90 to 500 W for most models), as well as the type and methods of attaching the files. The optimal power, in our opinion, is 150 W.

And files, in addition to length, can vary in width (from 2 to 10 mm), type of shanks (with or without pins) and thickness (from 0.6 to 1.25 mm).

Some models can be equipped with the simplest, often called “Soviet”, saw blades for manual jigsaws, which is a big advantage. To realize just this opportunity, owners of jigsaw machines that do not have it often improve the fastenings of their devices by installing clamps from a manual jigsaw on them.

Most desktop jigsaw machines have 2 speed modes: most often 600 and 1000 rpm, which is very useful when working with materials of different thickness, hardness and viscosity. The presence of the already mentioned turntable for 99% of the work performed on the machine, the function is useless.

Also, most jigsaw machines are equipped with additional accessories, such as:

• compressor for blowing chips from the cutting line;
• lighting of the sawing area;
• drilling block, etc.

These devices cannot be called useless, but it is still not worth relying on their presence when choosing a tabletop jigsaw machine, since these same functions can be successfully performed by:

• a compressor for an aquarium, with a blowing power selected by you, often more efficient than the standard one;
• a table lamp or carrier with a light output that is comfortable for your eyes;
• electric drill or screwdriver.

Even more complex devices, such as engraving drills, which can be equipped with your machine, generally cause some confusion, but let’s say right away that it is better to have such tools not tied to a jigsaw (or any other) machine. Their mobility is often more expensive than the advanced functionality of this very machine. In addition, all this is far from free.

Choosing a jigsaw manufacturer

Most often, Russian consumers choose jigsaw machines from Proxxon, Dewalt, Hegner, Xendoll, Zubr, JET, Enkor Corvette and Croton. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Based on reliability and compliance with the characteristics declared by the manufacturer, we would highlight the machines German company Hegner. And their line of this equipment is longer than many, but be sure to insist on sea trials when purchasing, regardless of which company’s machine you are planning to buy.

And even if it is possible to choose from 2 identical machines, demand that both are turned on. Buy one that has less operating noise and vibration.

DIY jigsaw machine

Finding a drawing of such equipment on the Internet is a rather trivial task, but we do not consider it advisable to single out any specific one from them, due to completely different approaches to implementation, both the very idea of ​​​​building such a machine, and the selection of materials, type of drive, etc. We will offer several concepts for a homemade jigsaw and briefly analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each so that you can figure out what is best for you.

• First: the easiest to implement, suitable for performing most tasks in the manufacture of parts with a rather complex contour at home.

There are many options for attaching a manual jigsaw to a table top that serves as the machine’s work table. Choose any, or offer your own and share with the readers of our site, for which we will be grateful.

The video also shows techniques for making a complex contour using a not-so-thin file. And the main disadvantage of this design is the impossibility of using thin files, which makes it difficult to manufacture openwork parts.

• Second: wooden. It is interesting due to the fact that the material is accessible, easy to process and repair.

In our opinion, the interesting thing about it is the use of the same manual jigsaw, which is rational for two reasons:

• if necessary, it can also be used as independent instrument, as it was made;
• the drive has built-in speed control, oscillation amplitude, and eliminates additional mechanisms that reduce the reliability of the design.

However, for those who like to tinker, there is alternative options manufacturing a wooden jigsaw machine.

When using a drill or screwdriver with an adjustable speed of rotation of the output shaft as a drive, it will also be possible to smoothly regulate the frequency of movement of the saw.

Moreover, control of this process can be transferred to the pedal using a simple device, which will make the work even more comfortable and the cut more accurate. Such jigsaw machines need to be well strengthened with braces and stringers and securely fastened to the floor so that they do not move during operation.

• Third: metal. There is no doubt that this particular concept is the most reliable and durable (subject to the exception serious mistakes during manufacture), but also the most expensive. It makes sense to implement it if there is work a large number of and you will be able to save a sufficient amount by using the materials you already have. Otherwise, there is not much point in making such structures with your own hands, given that inexpensive factory-made jigsaw machines can be purchased for less than 4 thousand rubles.

Of course, the latter does not matter if you are interested in the process of technical creativity itself.

Dear readers, if you have any questions, please ask them using the form below. We will be glad to communicate with you;)

By making a jigsaw with your own hands, you will not only be able to purchase a practical tool, but also save money. cash: it will be much cheaper than the factory analogue, while possessing a full range of functions. A homemade jigsaw will allow you to create products of complex shapes from wood, plastic and other materials, the production of which with hand tools in normal conditions would take a lot of time and effort.

A homemade jigsaw allows you to make cuts of complex shapes.

You should consider the structure and sequence of manufacturing a simple tabletop electric jigsaw, assembly features and the procedure for working with it.

How does a tabletop jigsaw work?

As the name suggests, this tool is designed to be placed on the surface of a desktop or workbench. Compact dimensions allow you to work with a jigsaw both in a workshop or garage, and at home. The electric jigsaw is an indispensable tool for making complex wood decorations, figured plywood carvings and similar works.

Kinematic diagram of the jigsaw drive.

It is necessary to consider the structure in more detail table jigsaw factory production. This will allow you to understand the main features of the device and apply them in a homemade model.

The components of an electric jigsaw can be divided into 3 parts:

• movable frame with saw;
• fixed base;
• Electrical engine.

The operating principle of the tool is as follows: an electric motor rotates a crank mechanism, which converts rotational movements into reciprocating movements. The movements are transmitted to a movable frame on which the saw is tensioned.

The homemade device works using the same principle. To simplify the design, the movable frame can be replaced with a regular hand jigsaw.

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Parts for electric jigsaw

When assembling an electric jigsaw, it is important to find a suitable motor that will drive the working tool - the saw. A motor from a drill, blender, etc. is perfect for this purpose. food processor or other equipment of the same type.

It is better to make the jigsaw frame from aluminum pipe.

The movable frame is made from metal profiles, wooden planks or slats made of durable plastic. It is most convenient to work with aluminum tubes of square section, since they are easy to process, have low weight and a significant margin of safety.

To fix the jigsaw in the desired position, you should make a reliable frame for it from wood or metal. The dimensions of the frame do not have much impact on the operation of the jigsaw. They depend only on which version of the tool you need - a compact tabletop or a full-size one installed on the floor.

The jigsaw table is made from a thick sheet of plywood, in which a small diameter hole is made where the file will move (Fig. 2).

A gasket made of elastic material - rubber or leather - is placed between the body and the table, which will dampen vibration.

There is also a simpler option on how to make a homemade jigsaw. It consists in the fact that a hand-held electric jigsaw is mounted in a vertical position on a table-stand, while its file is attached tightly to movable guide bars - levers.

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Assembling a table jigsaw

Construction homemade jigsaw begins with assembling the body, which can be made of plywood, chipboard or metal. The most simple model This tool can be used without a housing, but in this case strong vibrations occur, which can significantly affect the ease of use. In this case, two holes are made in the jigsaw - one for attaching the crank to the tool, the second for movably fixing the jigsaw itself to the table. After starting the engine, the jigsaw begins to produce reciprocating movements that facilitate sawing of the material.

Such a spring will provide the necessary tension on the jigsaw saw.

A more sophisticated model includes two separate strips with wing nuts installed at the ends. At the opposite end, the planks are pulled together by a strong spring, ensuring constant tension on the saw. Such a device operates from a separate motor or, for example, from a drill.

There is a vertical bar running inside the case, which is fixedly attached to its bottom or one of the walls. Two holes are made in it, the distance between which should be 2-3 cm less than the length of a standard file. Bolts or pins are inserted into the holes, onto which strips are placed that hold the file.

The engine is built into the housing and is attached to the bottom bar by means of a disk with a connecting rod mechanism. A table with a hole for a file acts as a cover for the case.

The main disadvantage of a jigsaw with a separate motor lies in its most intricate part - the crank mechanism. The file with it makes not only vertical, but also oblique movements, which cannot but affect the cutting accuracy. If you need to get a precise tool, then it is better to replace the motor with an inexpensive factory-made manual jigsaw. It is attached under the surface of the body and a file is passed through the table, clamping it with one end in the jigsaw and the other in the upper bar of the structure. This design ensures sufficient cutting accuracy, bringing this parameter closer to factory models.

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Advantages of using an electric jigsaw

A jigsaw allows you to make complex cuts very accurately.

Unlike hand tools, an electric jigsaw has clear advantages, including:

• more high speed work;
• the ability to work with two hands, which increases accuracy;
• safety - with proper organization of work, a stationary tool is much safer, since it cannot break out of your hands.

Besides, self-production An electric jigsaw will save money, since factory machines of this type are quite expensive.

Today I want to tell you how to make a jigsaw table with your own hands. Perhaps some will say: why can you saw on any table? With such success, we can ask: why use an electric jigsaw, after all, you can cut it with an ordinary, manual one.

When you cut with a jigsaw, you move the file to the side. I looked on the Internet and initially I wanted band saw, there is no way to buy it, and making it is very difficult and expensive. So I decided to make a table for an electric jigsaw.

First of all, let's decide on the material for the table and its size.

I found chipboard in the garage, so I’ll use it to make a table and a lid for it. I will make the bar itself from profile pipe the size of which is 25 × 25 × 25, height 110 mm, length 515 mm, length of perpendicular corner 20 mm.

For the part of the device where the saw clamp is located, in other words the lock, I used two bearings. I secured the metal bar with a “lamb” so that it would be possible to adjust the level of elevation in height of the part that we are cutting.

Let's move on to making the table. Table size: length 540 mm, width 400 mm, base 435 mm, depth 350 mm. and height 250mm.

I attached a jigsaw under the table with screws and washers. I left the front part of the table open so there should be access so that, if necessary, I could replace the file, adjust the speed or amplitude, in a word, to make different settings for the jigsaw. Of course, in the future I plan to improve the table by adding doors to it, this is not only for aesthetics, but then the noise will be reduced.

For greater convenience when cutting, I made a ruler-stop. I made it small because when we drink at the table special effort not included (compared to a circular saw, where you need a stronger ruler to cut the parts evenly). The structure of the ruler is very simple; here I used an 8-inch furniture nut, and on the other side a screw that can be easily tightened with a screwdriver. You can screw it to the table manually, but if we do this with a screwdriver it will be more reliable.

The ruler moves freely on the table, which is convenient when cutting.

The table-machine for the jigsaw is ready, you see there is nothing complicated in its manufacture.

Step-by-step manufacturing of a jigsaw table

What to do when you need a jigsaw but don’t need to buy one? You can make a jigsaw with your own hands. There are many ways to make or repair such a tool. Let's look at the simplest and most accessible of them.

Manual jigsaw - simple, fast and affordable

How to make a jigsaw quickly from available and inexpensive materials? Here's the easiest way.

List of tools and materials:

• plywood sheet (10 mm);
• plywood sheet (4 mm);
• steel sheet (2 mm);
• bolts and nuts;
• drill;
• chisel;
• sanding paper;
• file.

The base of the manual jigsaw is a bracket; it should be made from a plywood sheet (10 mm). Next, it is recommended to make thickenings for the tool handle from more thin plywood(4 mm). These thickenings must be glued to the handle on both sides, which will ensure more convenient operation in the future. Treat the bracket and handle well with sanding paper and a file. It is necessary to cut out the steel plate with a chisel, and then clean the clamping jaws with a file. After this, drill slots in the jaws with a drill, and then use a sharp chisel to cut notches inside the clamping jaws. In the left clamping jaw, modify the slot for the bolt; for this you need to make a thread. Attach the jaws to the bracket, then screw the bolts into the left clamp, securing them with nuts.

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Table jigsaw: two manufacturing options

The desktop fixture can be made either new or by modifying or repairing improvised means.

Making a new benchtop mechanical jigsaw will require the following tools and materials:

• duralumin pipe;
• plastic base;
• clamps;
• screws;
• copper sheet;
• drill.

First you need to prepare the frame; for this purpose it is better to use an aluminum pipe. When making the frame, it is necessary to provide a passage through which the cord will be laid to provide power. A copper sheet should be taken to make a U-shaped frame, which will subsequently need to be attached to the frame itself. At the junction of the frame with the jigsaw handle, screw the frame with screws. In the plastic base, use a drill to drill a hole for the file, as well as slots for fasteners. Attach the jigsaw to the prepared plastic so that the file passes through the hole. Using clamps, attach the finished tool to flat surface, for example, to the table.

A hand-held device based on sewing machine, This perfect option, if repair sewing machine is not as important as making such a tool. List of tools and materials:

• sewing machine (you can use either a foot- or hand-operated model);
• file;
• needle file;
• drill.

After unscrewing the bolts at the bottom of the sewing machine, you should remove the entire threading system. Next, knock out the metal fastening rod and remove the drive shaft of the thread weaving system. The panel covering the sewing machine parts can be easily removed by unscrewing 2 more bolts. Carefully remove the needle. Needle slot required minor repairs- it should be expanded so that a file can be placed in it. To do this, it is better to cut the hole using a needle file, focusing on the dimensions of the file itself. After this, adjust its size to the maximum possible needle size by cutting top part files. After grinding down the upper teeth with a file and the lower part on the tip, you can proceed to the next step. The prepared file must be placed in the place of the former needle - in the needle holder. After this, you should turn the wheel and check:

• so that the saw does not come into contact with the panel and the presser foot;
• so that in the upper position the plywood passes freely under the saw;
• so that the material can be drawn smoothly.

This jigsaw is suitable for working with materials made of plywood, balsa wood and plastic, and if you use an electric machine, you will get an electric jigsaw.