Abstract

In previous work funded by the IRSST and the National Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), the Université de Sherbrooke’s Groupe d’Acoustique et Vibrations (acoustics and vibration group) developed a prototype circular saw that generated less noise than previously available models. As a patent for the technology underlying this prototype has been applied for, it appeared useful to confirm the new saw’s performance and apply the technology to other types of saws.

Noise levels during cutting operations were observed to decrease by 4 dB to 12 dB in companies participating in this study, indicating that the prototype’s vibro-acoustic behaviour in the field mirrors that in the laboratory. The manufacturing process for the new saw was also modified in order to minimise warping. Although significant improvements were achieved in this regard, warping remains at the upper limit of the tolerances of traditional saws. This problem is currently being studied with a saw manufacturer.