Festool Track Saw 55 Blade – Master Precision Cuts & Extend Blade Life

Welcome to The Jim BoSlice Workshop! If you’ve invested in a Festool TS 55 track saw, you already know you’re holding a tool designed for unparalleled precision and efficiency. But let’s be honest: even the best tools are only as good as their accessories, and when it comes to a track saw, the blade is king. You might be struggling with splintered edges, slow cuts, or wondering why your cuts aren’t as clean as they should be. It’s a common frustration, especially when you expect perfection from your premium tools.

You see, the secret to unlocking your Festool TS 55’s full potential often lies right in front of you: the

festool track saw 55 blade

itself. This isn’t just any saw blade; it’s a finely engineered component designed to work in harmony with your saw and its guide rail system. Choosing the right blade, installing it correctly, and giving it the care it deserves can transform your woodworking experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to dive deep into everything you need to know about your

festool track saw 55 blade

. We’ll explore how to choose the perfect blade for any material, walk through installation and calibration, share expert tips for achieving flawless cuts, troubleshoot common issues, and even outline a robust care guide to keep your blades performing their best for years to come. Get ready to elevate your craftsmanship and make those frustrating cuts a thing of the past!

Understanding Your Festool Track Saw 55 Blade: Why Blade Choice Matters

When you look at a saw blade, it might seem like a simple circular piece of metal with teeth. However, for a high-precision tool like the Festool TS 55 track saw, the blade is a marvel of engineering. Its design directly impacts the quality, speed, and safety of your cuts.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Cut

Every aspect of a blade, from its diameter to its tooth count and grind, plays a role. The Festool TS 55 uses a 160mm (6-1/4 inch) blade, but that’s just the starting point.

Consider these key features:

• Diameter: The 160mm diameter is standard for the TS 55, dictating the maximum cutting depth.
• Kerf: This is the width of the cut. Festool blades typically have a thin kerf, reducing material waste and motor strain.
• Hook Angle: The angle of the tooth’s leading edge. A higher hook angle aggressively pulls the wood into the blade, while a lower or negative angle provides a cleaner, safer cut, especially for crosscutting.
• Tooth Grind: This refers to the shape of the cutting edge. Different grinds are optimized for different materials and cut types.

Matching the Blade to the Material: The Right Tool for the Job

Just as you wouldn’t use a chisel to drive a nail, you shouldn’t use a general-purpose blade for every cutting task. The right

festool track saw 55 blade

ensures a clean, splinter-free cut, reduces strain on your saw, and extends blade life.

Let’s look at common blade types:

• 48-Tooth (Universal/Fine Cut): This is often the default blade that comes with your TS 55. It’s an excellent all-rounder for crosscutting plywood, MDF, and other sheet goods, providing a very clean finish. It’s also suitable for general-purpose ripping in solid wood.
• 28-Tooth (Rip Cut): Designed for efficiently cutting *with* the grain of solid wood. The fewer, larger teeth clear chips faster, making rip cuts quicker and less taxing on the saw. You might sacrifice some smoothness compared to a 48-tooth blade, but for rough dimensioning, it’s ideal.
• 52-Tooth (Laminate/Fine Cut): If you’re working with delicate materials like laminate, melamine, or veneered plywood, this blade is your best friend. Its high tooth count and specific grind are engineered to minimize chipping and provide an exceptionally smooth finish on these brittle surfaces.

Choosing the right blade is the first and most critical step in achieving professional-grade results. Don’t underestimate its importance!

Choosing the Right Festool Track Saw 55 Blade for Your Project

Selecting the perfect blade isn’t just about avoiding frustration; it’s about optimizing your workflow and achieving superior results. Think about the material and the type of cut you’ll be making.

Decoding Blade Specifications

Every

festool track saw 55 blade

has specifications printed on it. Understanding these will help you make informed choices.

Here’s what to look for:

• T-number (Tooth Count): As discussed, more teeth generally mean a finer cut, fewer teeth mean faster, more aggressive cuts.
• FTG (Flat Top Grind): Often used for ripping solid wood, providing a flat cutting edge.
• ATB (Alternate Top Bevel): A very common grind where teeth alternate in bevel direction. Excellent for crosscutting and general-purpose work, providing clean cuts in plywood and other sheet goods.
• ATBR (Alternate Top Bevel with Raker): Similar to ATB but includes a flat-top raker tooth for chip clearance, often found on combination blades.

Practical Blade Selection Scenarios

Let’s consider some real-world examples for your

festool track saw 55 blade

needs.

For example:

• Cutting a full sheet of ¾” birch plywood for cabinet carcasses: You’ll want a 48-tooth or even a 52-tooth laminate blade for the cleanest, splinter-free edges on both sides. The 48-tooth is a great balance of speed and finish.
• Dimensioning rough-sawn lumber for a tabletop: A 28-tooth rip blade will be more efficient. It cuts faster and handles knots better, leaving a surface that will be jointed and planed anyway.
• Cutting kitchen countertops made of laminate: Definitely go for the 52-tooth laminate blade. It’s specifically designed to prevent chipping on these delicate, brittle surfaces.

Always prioritize the blade type that matches your primary material and desired finish. This is one of the most effective

festool track saw 55 blade tips

you’ll ever receive.

Installation and Calibration: Getting Started with Your New Blade

Proper installation isn’t just about putting the blade on; it’s about ensuring it’s seated correctly and the saw is calibrated for optimal performance. This is a critical part of

how to festool track saw 55 blade

effectively.

Safety First: Unplug and Secure

Before you even think about touching the blade, make sure your Festool TS 55 is **unplugged** from the power source. This cannot be stressed enough. Always wear appropriate safety gloves when handling saw blades.

Step-by-Step Blade Change

Changing the blade on a Festool TS 55 is designed to be straightforward, but precision is key.

Here’s the process:

1. Unplug the Saw: Confirm the saw is completely disconnected from power.
2. Engage Blade Lock: Press the spindle lock button, usually located near the blade housing, to prevent the blade from spinning.
3. Remove Arbor Screw: Use the provided hex wrench to loosen and remove the arbor screw. Remember, it’s often a left-hand thread, so “righty-loosey, lefty-tighty.”
4. Remove Outer Flange: Once the screw is out, carefully remove the outer blade flange.
5. Remove Old Blade: Gently slide the old blade off the arbor shaft.
6. Clean Arbor and Flanges: Use a brush or compressed air to clean any sawdust or debris from the arbor shaft and both inner and outer flanges. Debris here can cause blade wobble and inaccurate cuts.
7. Install New Blade: Place the new blade onto the arbor, ensuring the teeth are oriented correctly (usually an arrow on the blade indicates the direction of rotation, which should match the arrow on the saw housing).
8. Replace Outer Flange and Screw: Reinstall the outer flange and tighten the arbor screw firmly, but do not overtighten.
9. Disengage Blade Lock: Release the spindle lock.
10. Test Spin: Plug in the saw briefly and let it spin up to ensure there’s no wobble and it runs smoothly.

Calibrating Your Splinterguard (Zero Clearance Strip)

The splinterguard is one of the standout

benefits of festool track saw 55 blade

system. It provides a zero-clearance edge, drastically reducing tear-out.

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Attach Track: Place your saw on the guide rail.
2. Set Depth: Adjust the cutting depth so the blade will just score through the splinterguard strip, plus about 2mm into a sacrificial piece of material underneath.
3. Make First Cut: Power on the saw and slowly push it along the track, cutting through the splinterguard. This creates a perfect, custom-fit edge for your specific blade.
4. Verify: Once cut, the edge of the splinterguard should be perfectly aligned with your blade’s kerf, ready for tear-out-free cuts.

This initial calibration is vital for achieving the clean, precise cuts Festool is known for.

Mastering the Cut: Festool Track Saw 55 Blade Tips for Precision

Getting a perfect cut isn’t just about the blade; it’s also about your technique. These

festool track saw 55 blade tips

will help you get the most out of your setup.

Setting Up for Success

Preparation is half the battle. A well-prepared workspace and material lead to flawless results.

Consider these points:

• Clean Track and Workpiece: Ensure your guide rail and the surface of your material are free of dust and debris. Even a small chip can throw off your cut.
• Secure Clamping: Always clamp your guide rail securely to your workpiece. Festool clamps are designed to fit perfectly into the track’s grooves. This prevents any movement during the cut, which is a primary cause of imprecise cuts.
• Support Your Material: Use sacrificial material or foam insulation boards underneath your workpiece to prevent tear-out on the bottom side and to protect your work surface. This also gives the blade a clean exit, preventing binding.

Execution: The Art of the Perfect Pass

Once everything is set, the actual cutting technique comes into play.

Follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Set Correct Depth: Adjust the cutting depth so the blade protrudes about 2-3mm below your workpiece. This ensures a clean exit cut and reduces splintering.
2. Start Slowly: Begin the cut by allowing the saw to reach full RPM before engaging the material. Gently plunge the blade into the wood.
3. Consistent Feed Rate: Maintain a steady, consistent feed rate throughout the cut. Pushing too fast can lead to rough cuts, burning, and increased motor strain. Pushing too slow can also lead to burning, especially with dull blades. Let the blade do the work.
4. Follow Through: Continue the cut completely through the material and past the end of the workpiece to ensure a clean break-off and prevent snipe.
5. Listen to Your Saw: Pay attention to the sound of your saw. A strained or struggling sound often indicates a dull blade, too fast a feed rate, or an incorrect blade for the material.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Take your time, focus on consistency, and you’ll quickly master the art of the track saw cut.

Common Challenges & Troubleshooting Your Festool Track Saw 55 Blade

Even with the best tools, you might encounter issues. Knowing how to diagnose and fix them is part of being an expert woodworker. Let’s tackle some

common problems with festool track saw 55 blade

performance.

Splintering and Tear-Out

This is perhaps the most common frustration, especially with delicate sheet goods.

Here’s how to address it:

• Incorrect Blade: Are you using a low tooth-count rip blade on plywood? Switch to a 48-tooth or 52-tooth fine-cut blade.
• Dull Blade: A sharp blade makes clean cuts. A dull one rips and tears. See our care guide below.
• Splinterguard Issue: Is your splinterguard worn or improperly cut? Recalibrate or replace it.
• No Sacrificial Material: Always use a sacrificial board or foam underneath to support the fibers on the exit side of the cut.
• Too Fast Feed Rate: Slow down! Let the blade work.

Burning or Scorching the Wood

Burning is often a sign of friction and heat buildup.

Check these:

• Dull Blade: This is the number one culprit. A dull blade rubs more than it cuts.
• Wrong Blade for Material: Trying to rip thick hardwoods with a high-tooth count blade can generate excessive heat.
• Too Slow Feed Rate: While going too fast causes issues, going too slow can also cause burning as the blade spends too much time in contact with the wood.
• Resin Buildup: Pitch and resin on the blade can cause friction. Clean your blade regularly.
• Misaligned Blade/Saw: Rarely, a bent arbor or blade wobble can cause excessive friction. Check for true spin.

Blade Wobble or Excessive Vibration

This is a serious issue that affects cut quality and safety.

Inspect these areas:

• Loose Arbor Screw: Ensure the arbor screw is tightened securely.
• Dirty Arbor/Flanges: Even a tiny piece of sawdust caught between the blade and the flange can cause wobble. Clean thoroughly during blade changes.
• Damaged Blade: A bent, warped, or missing-tooth blade can vibrate. Inspect the blade carefully.
• Worn Bearings: If the problem persists with a new, clean blade, the saw’s arbor bearings might be worn. This is a job for a qualified service technician.

Addressing these issues promptly will keep your cuts precise and your workshop safe.

Extending Blade Life: A Festool Track Saw 55 Blade Care Guide

Your saw blade is an investment, and proper care will ensure it performs at its best for years. This

festool track saw 55 blade care guide

will help you maximize its lifespan and maintain peak performance.

Cleaning Your Blades: A Simple Yet Essential Step

Pitch and resin buildup are the enemy of clean cuts. They increase friction, cause burning, and make your blade work harder.

Here’s how to clean your blades:

1. Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection.
2. Remove Blade: Take the blade off your saw (remember to unplug first!).
3. Apply Cleaner: Use a specialized blade cleaner (like CMT Formula 2050, Simple Green, or even oven cleaner for tough buildup). Spray it on both sides of the blade.
4. Soak (Optional): For heavy buildup, let the cleaner soak for 5-10 minutes.
5. Scrub: Use a stiff nylon brush (never wire!) to scrub off the softened pitch. A small brass brush can also work for stubborn spots, but be gentle around the carbide teeth.
6. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the blade thoroughly with water and immediately dry it completely to prevent rust.
7. Protect: Apply a light coat of rust preventative (like Boeshield T-9) to the blade body, avoiding the carbide teeth.

Clean your blades regularly, especially after cutting resinous woods like pine or pressure-treated lumber.

Sharpening Your Blades: When and Why

A sharp blade is a safe and efficient blade. You’ll notice when your blade starts to dull: more effort required, rougher cuts, burning, and increased splintering.

Consider these points for sharpening:

• Professional Service: Saw blades, especially carbide-tipped ones, require specialized equipment to sharpen correctly. It’s almost always best to send your festool track saw 55 blade to a reputable sharpening service.
• Cost vs. New: Weigh the cost of sharpening against the cost of a new blade. For high-quality Festool blades, sharpening is almost always worthwhile, often extending the blade’s life through multiple sharpenings.
• Don’t Wait Too Long: Sharpening a slightly dull blade is easier and often cheaper than rehabilitating a very dull or damaged one.

Proper Storage: Protecting Your Investment

How you store your blades is just as important as how you clean them.

Best practices for storage:

• Blade Cases: Keep blades in their original packaging or dedicated blade storage cases. This protects the delicate carbide teeth from chipping and prevents rust.
• Dry Environment: Store blades in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Vertical Storage: Storing blades vertically can prevent them from warping under their own weight over time.

Following these

festool track saw 55 blade best practices

will ensure your blades are always ready for action, delivering those signature Festool-quality cuts.

Sustainable Practices: Eco-Friendly Choices for Your Workshop

As woodworkers, we often connect with nature through our craft. Embracing sustainable and

eco-friendly festool track saw 55 blade

practices aligns with this connection, benefiting both your wallet and the planet.

Sharpen, Don’t Always Replace

The most significant sustainable practice for saw blades is simple: **sharpen them!** Many woodworkers automatically replace a dull blade, but a high-quality carbide-tipped blade can be sharpened many times. This drastically reduces waste and conserves resources.

Here’s why it matters:

• Resource Conservation: Less demand for new blades means less raw material extraction and manufacturing energy.
• Waste Reduction: Keeps old blades out of landfills.
• Cost Savings: Sharpening is typically much cheaper than buying a new Festool blade.

Seek out local sharpening services that specialize in carbide blades. Many will pick up and deliver, making it incredibly convenient.

Recycling Old Blades

When a blade finally reaches the end of its useful life (e.g., too many missing teeth, body warped beyond repair, or too thin from repeated sharpening), don’t just toss it in the trash.

Consider these options:

• Metal Recycling Facilities: Most municipal recycling centers accept scrap metal. Check with your local facility for guidelines on recycling carbide-tipped saw blades. The carbide tips are a valuable material.
• Specialized Recycling Programs: Some tool manufacturers or blade companies may have take-back or recycling programs. It’s worth inquiring.
• Creative Reuse: While not for cutting, old blades can be repurposed for workshop art, clock faces, or even decorative elements. Just be sure to render them safe first!

Making mindful choices about your tools and their lifecycle is a small but impactful way to contribute to a more sustainable woodworking practice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Festool Track Saw Blade

We get a lot of questions about optimizing track saw performance. Here are some of the most common queries regarding the

festool track saw 55 blade

.

What’s the best general-purpose festool track saw 55 blade for plywood?

For excellent results when crosscutting and ripping plywood, MDF, and other sheet goods, the Festool 48-tooth universal blade (often supplied with the saw) is an outstanding choice. It offers a great balance of speed and a very clean finish.

How often should I clean my festool track saw 55 blade?

The frequency depends on the materials you’re cutting. If you’re working with resinous woods like pine, clean your blade after every major project or a few hours of use. For less resinous materials, cleaning every 10-20 hours of use or when you notice performance degradation (burning, more effort) is a good practice.

Can I use non-Festool blades on my TS 55?

While some third-party blades are available in the correct 160mm diameter, 20mm arbor, and thin kerf, it’s generally recommended to stick with genuine Festool blades. They are engineered to work seamlessly with the saw’s electronics, motor, and the guide rail system, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and splinterguard compatibility. If you do use a third-party blade, ensure it meets all specifications precisely.

My cuts are burning, even with a clean blade. What’s wrong?

If your blade is clean and still burning, it’s very likely dull and needs sharpening. Other potential causes include an incorrect blade for the material (e.g., using a high-tooth count blade for thick ripping), or a feed rate that’s too slow, causing excessive friction. Always ensure your blade is sharp and appropriate for the task.

Is it worth sending my festool track saw 55 blade for sharpening?

Absolutely, for high-quality Festool blades, sharpening is almost always worth the investment. A professional sharpening service can restore the blade to near-new condition multiple times, significantly extending its lifespan and providing excellent value compared to repeatedly buying new blades.

Final Thoughts: Elevating Your Craft, One Cut at a Time

The

festool track saw 55 blade

is more than just a cutting tool; it’s a precision instrument that, when understood and cared for, can transform your woodworking projects. From achieving perfectly splinter-free edges on delicate veneers to efficiently breaking down full sheets of plywood, the right blade and the right technique make all the difference.

Remember, mastering your tools is a journey. Take the time to understand your blades, practice safe and consistent cutting techniques, and commit to a regular care routine. Not only will you extend the life of your valuable tools, but you’ll also elevate the quality of your craftsmanship with every single cut.

So, go forth, apply these tips, and watch your woodworking precision soar. Stay safe, stay creative, and keep building amazing things!