ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)Auto and Shop Information (AS)Medium
A woodworking student is cutting a piece of plywood using a circular saw. To ensure a smooth, clean cut and prevent splintering on the visible side of the workpiece, which side of the plywood should face upwards when cutting?
- AThe side that will be visible after assembly.
- BIt does not matter; both sides will splinter equally.
- CThe side that will be hidden from view.
- DThe side with the most imperfections.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The side that will be visible after assembly.
When using a circular saw, the blade teeth cut upwards into the material. This action tends to cause splintering on the top surface. Therefore, the visible or 'good' side should face upwards to minimize visible damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Splintering is not equal; it's more pronounced where the blade exits the material.
- C. If the hidden side faces up, the visible side will be on the bottom and will experience splintering as the blade exits the material.
- D. Facing the most imperfect side up might hide some flaws, but the cutting action will still cause splintering on the top, which might be the visible side.
Circular Saw Splintering
The tendency of a circular saw blade to tear wood fibers on the top surface of the workpiece as it cuts upwards.
- Blade teeth cut upwards.
- Splintering occurs on the top surface.
- Place good side up to reduce visible splintering.
Memory trick: Circular saws 'climb' up, so the good side goes high.