1. Introduction to Power Tools
NCCER Core Curriculum
Module:

2. After completing this module you should be able to do the following:
OBJECTIVES
After completing this module you should be able to do the following:
Identify power tools commonly used in the construction trades
Use power tools safety
Explain how to maintain power tools properly

3. SAFETY
Many of the power tools that we have in the carpentry shop are can hurt you. You should never operate a power tool that you have not been trained to use safely. One of the most important rules concerning power tools is to always disconnect the power source before you replace parts such as bits, belts, blades or discs. Always disconnect power tools prior to performing maintenance. Always make sure that the power switch is in the off position before you plug any tool into an electrical outlet.

4. SAFETY
Some tools are equipped with a trigger lock. When the lock is engaged to tool will continue to run even when you take your finger off of the trigger. NEVER activate the trigger lock on any tool.

5. Types of Power Tools
Electric Tools – Any type of tool that must be plugged into an AC power source such as a wall outlet. These tools are powered by electricity. Ex.: Circular Saws
Pneumatic Tools – These tools are powered by air. They must be plugged into an air compressor to be used. When using one of these tool, such as an air wrench, be sure to keep your body stance balanced.
Pneumatic tools are typically used when there is no source of electricity. Ex.: Pneumatic Drill or Nail Gun.
Click here for a video concerning pneumatic tools
Hydraulic Tools – Tools that are powered by fluid pressure. Hand pumps or electric pumps are used to produce the fluid pressure that is needed. Ex.: Jack Hammer, Pipe Benders, Jacks
Click here to see a video of hydraulic rescue tools in action

6. Types of Drills Electric Drills Cordless Drills Hammer Drills
Electromagnetic Drills
Pneumatic Drills (Air Hammers)
Electric Screwdrivers

7. Parts of the Power Drill

8. Parts of a Drill
Gear selector – controls the speed of the drill. Students should keep the drill in 1st until they get the hang if using a drill
Trigger – the harder you pull the trigger the faster the chuck will turn
Forward & Reverse Switch – Controls the direction that the chuck spins
Chuck – Bits are held in place by the chuck

9. Click Here to see how to change a drill bit in a cordless drill

10. Click Here to see how to change a drill bit in an electric drill

11. Types of Drill Bits

12. Safety & Maintenance Material to be drilled should be firmly clamped
Be sure to hold the drill at a right angle to the material to be drilled.
Hold the drill with both hands and apply moderate pressure
Reduce pressure when the bit is about to come through the other side of the material
To prevent electrical shock only use tools that are double insulated with proper ground fault protection using a GFCI.
Always find out what is on the other side of the material that you are drilling through before you drill.
Make sure that the drill bit is tightened in the chuck before you use the drill
If the drill gets caught in the work release the trigger and reverse the motor until the bit is free.
Keep the drill’s air vent clear using a small brush or stick

13. Electromagnetic Drill
An electromagnetic drill is a portable drill press that is mounted on an electromagnetic base. Click here to see a video of an electromagnetic drill in use.

14. Click here to see a video of a pneumatic drill in action

15. Pneumatically Powered Nailers (Nail Guns)
These tools are very common and they increase jobsite production greatly.
The first step when using one of these tools is to read the manufacturers instructions
Always wear proper PPE.
Ensure that the compressor is set to the proper pressure for the nailer.
When using, hold the tip of the nailer firmly against the material and pull the trigger.
If there is ever a problem with a pneumatic nailer be sure that you disconnect the air hose before attempting to fix it.

16. Pneumatic Nailers Staplers Sheathing Decking Roofing Framing
Finish Work
Constructing Cabinets
Sheathing
Decking
Roofing
Installing Insulation
Installing Ceiling Tile
Installing Paneling

17. Porta-Power
A Porta-Power is a hydraulic tool that consists of a lever operated pump, a length of hydraulic hose and a cylinder. They have a variety of uses and can generate tremendous force
This porta-power is being used to straighten the chassis of a car.

18. Circular Saw Safety

19. Circular Saw Safety Always wear Safety Glasses Hold the Saw Firmly
Always start the saw before making contact with the material
Keep the cord clear of the blade to avoid cutting it
Check the condition of the blade and be sure it is secure before starting the saw
Never use a circular saw that does not have an upper guard because the guard keeps you from touching the blade
Be sure the blade guards are in place and working properly
Set the blade only deep enough to cut through the stock

20. Circular Saw Safety
Check the stock for nails and any other metals before cutting it
Allow the saw to reach maximum speed before starting the cut
Keep your hands clear of the blade
If the saw binds in a cut, stop immediately and hold it in position until the blade stops then back out of the cut.
Stop the saw and lay it on its side after finishing the cut
Do not hold the stock in your hands while ripping. Secure the material to saw horses with a nail or clamp
Always support the work in such a way that one part will fall away from the blade when the cut is complete.

21. Circular Saw Overview

22. Circular Saw Safety

23. Circular Saw Overview The blade size for a Circular Saw is 7-1/4”
Circular Saws are the most commonly used saws in the construction industry
There are several types of cuts that can be made with a circular saw
Crosscut – cutting across the grain
Rip-Cut – Cutting in the direction of the grain
Mitering - Cutting across the board at an angle
Pocket (Plunge) Cuts - Lowering the blade down into the wood
Bevel Cuts - Cuts made with the saw blade set on an angle
The blade size for a Circular Saw is 7-1/4”

24. Circular Saw Overview
When you are cutting with a circular saw it is important that you always cut on the correct side of the line that you mark. The reason for this is that the blade is about 1/8” thick. If you cut in the wrong side of the line your board will be short by the thickness of the blade (1/8”).

25. Saber Saws – There are two types of Saber Saws
Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall)
Jig Saw or Saber Saw

26. Jigsaw or Saber Saw
A Jigsaw or Saber saw has a fine blade that makes it suitable for doing delicate & intricate work.
Different types of blades are available so that the jigsaw can be used for many types of materials & work.
Very useful for making straight or curved cuts in wood, metal, plastic, wallboard or other materials.
When plugging a Saber Saw in be sure that the switch is in the OFF position.

27. Reciprocating Saw Sometimes referred to as a Sawzall.
Similar to a Saber Saw but more rugged
Mostly used in demolition work.

28. Portable Band Saw
Has a one piece blade that runs in one direction around guides at either end of the saw.
Mostly used for cutting metal pipe.
Especially useful for cutting heavy metal.

29. Power Miter Saw
Power Miter Box
Compound Miter Saw

30. Power Miter Saw
Power Miter Box
Compound Miter Saw
Saw blade pivots horizontally from the rear of the table and locks into position to cut angle from zero to 45 degrees.
Similar to a Power Miter Saw with the difference being that the blade can be tilted vertically.
Frame and Trim Saws
The power miter saw combines a miter box with a circular saw, allowing it to make straight and miter cuts

31. Frame and Trim Saw
Sawbuck combine the features of a radial arm saw and a power compound miter saw.

32. Abrasive Cut-off Saw Sometimes referred to as a chop saw.
Used to make straight of angled cuts through angle iron, flat bar or channel.
Especially useful for cutting heavy metal.

33. Grinders Angle Grinders End Grinder Detail Grinder
Used to grind away hard, heavy materials.
Smaller grinder that is used to smooth the insides of materials such as pipe.
Used to smooth or polish intricate metal work.

34. Saws Hacksaw – used to cut metal with a replaceable blade.
Backsaw(miter saw) – most commonly used with a miter box. The saw has a strong back with very fine teeth.
Dovetail saw
Compass (keyhole) saw – is used for making rough cuts in drywall, plywood, hardboard, and paneling. Used to cut holes for piping and electrical boxes.
Coping Saw – has a thin fine-toothed blade and is ideal for making curved and scroll cuts in moldings and trimwork.

35. Saws

36. Planes Block Plane Jack Plane Smoothing Plane Jointer Plane
Used to plane small pieces, edges, and joint surfaces when small amounts of wood need to be removed
Jack Plane
A bench plane used to plane rough
work
Smoothing Plane
Plane small work to a smooth, even surface without moving much material
Jointer Plane
Used to plane and true long boards such as the edges of doors.

37. Bench Grinder
Usually have two wheels, one is for grinding and the other is for buffing.
Great for sharpening & renewing tool edges.
The tool rest should be a maximum of 1/8” from the wheel

38. Clamps Hand-screw clamp Locking C-clamp Spring clamp Quick clamp
Holds beveled and tapered pieces together
Locking C-clamp
Spring clamp
Quick clamp
Web(strap) clamp
Used to secure round, oval, and oddly shaped work.
Pipe clamp

39. Routers Main function is to cut patterns in wood. Types of Cuts
Chamfer Cut
Bevel Cut

40. Transits and Levels
Builders Level
Transit Level

41. Transits and Levels
Line Levels are used to level long spans. Consist of a glass tube mounted in a sleeve that has a hook on either end.
Water levels consist of a length of clear plastic tubing.
Builders level is a telescope with a spirit level mounted on top. It may be rotated 360 degrees, but cannot be tilted up and down. Used to check grades and elevations and to set up points over long distances.
Transit levels are similar to builders levels, but may be tilted up and down 45 degrees.
Laser level are used to perform all tasks that a conventional transit level may do.

42. Introduction to Power Tools
The End
Introduction to Power Tools
NCCER Core Curriculum
Module: