Timber iQ August - September 2020 // Issue: 50 August - September 2020 | Page 10

COVER STORY Here, a blade is being ground. batches of blades are produced at a time to maximise efficiency. The process starts with the particular high-grade of steel that is laser cut into the required body shapes. This is followed by the heat treatment process that could take as long as two days, which hardens the steel. This is then followed by tempering, which in simple terms is the heating and cooling of the steel to certain parameters to decrease the metal’s hardness, but increase its toughness. Tempering is an extremely important step since if it is not done or not done successful, the steel will be brittle and could shatter. Figure 1: Saw blade terminology. The blades then follow the manufacturing steps which include: straightening and tensioning, grinding and polishing, boring and then tipping, all of which follow strict quality guidelines to produce a long-lasting product, when used correctly. ABOUT HARRIS SAWING EQUIPMENT • HSE has roots that date back to 1920 and changed its name to Harris Sawing Equipment in 1979. • HSE is a third generation family business. • HSE not only manufacturers, they recondition saw blades and offer consulting services. • HSE manufacturing includes: TCT saws, food grade stainless steel blades, circular saw blades, plate saws and hot saws. • HSE can produce circular blades of 8mm up to 3 000mm in diameter. • HSE services a wide market from original equipment manufacturers, end users, various distribution networks throughout South Africa and also exports to the rest of Africa. Blade sharpening is the final step in the production process. CONTACT INFORMATION: For any queries, please contact the HSE team: Harris Sawing Equipment Tel: [phone] | Fax: [phone] Email: [email protected] 18 Third Street, Booysens Reserve, Johannesburg, South Africa 8 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020 // www.timberiq.co.za