What Does a Bridge Saw Do? What You Should Know

Cutting tools vary wildly in their designs. One of the most reliable options is the bridge saw. If you want to cut natural stone, this tool is one of the best additions to your inventory. Here’s what you should know about a bridge saw and what it does before buying or using this machine.

Defining Bridge Saws

A bridge saw is a large tool for cutting natural stone, such as marble and granite. They are equipped with a diamond blade to complete powerful, accurate cuts on work materials. The machine’s name comes from its shape.

The blade uses a bridge-like arm that spans across the machine, allowing you to set up your workpiece and make smooth cuts. You can’t easily erase mistakes on natural stone workpieces, so a great-quality bridge saw ensures clean cuts on the stone.

The Bridge Saw Axis

Bridge saws are available in various designs, and one differentiating factor is the axis. You can find these machines in 4-axis and 5-axis layouts. The axis refers to the range of movement you have for simultaneously cutting different parts of the stone. For example, a 5-axis bridge saw can move on the X, Y, and Z axes.

The rotating design of a 5-axis saw allows you to use the A and C axes to your advantage, too. More cutting capabilities like this enable you to make precise incisions in natural stone. Understanding what you should know about what a bridge saw does also requires breaking down CNC, or computer numerical control.

What Is CNC?

As you shop for bridge saws, you will notice a lot of information in their names. Although they may seem confusing, these terms will help you identify key details about a saw. CNC refers to how the saw operates when you’re using it.

Unlike a hand saw that you use for manual cutting, CNC saws use an automated system for completing tasks. The computer will carefully make cuts according to your predetermined specifications, ensuring a clean workpiece. Now that you are more familiar with what bridge saws do, you can browse the various used CNC bridge saws for sale at Stone Machinery Sales with a better idea of how they will impact your workflow.