Battery-powered saw

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#2561814 10-Sep-2020 16:22

It's not too hard to figure out - the generator has to supply more than the load draws.

Power tool = 1400? Generator = > 1400

For headroom I suggest you look at 2 kW and up.

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geekIT

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#2562079 11-Sep-2020 10:36

elpenguino, thanks for the comment.

However, I've read that a generator, as well as delivering a tool's running wattage, needs to cope with the startup wattage, which apparently can be almost double the run figure.

Considering that this startup demand would occur on every run (rather than just once, as would happen with a bench saw that's started and left running), it would seem that a 2800w generator would be necessary.

As I said, I have no idea if this is correct, which is why I asked the question. Perhaps I need to ask Makita about the startup demand of my saw.

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EcosseTech

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#2562083 11-Sep-2020 10:38

If you need powerful tools in a remote location look at DeWalt FlexVolt tools.
I have used some of the Skill saws, hammer drills etc made by them with the FlexVolt battery. The skillsaw was not far off a 230V one..

If you need to blast thru pallets, get a chainsaw..

Cheers

elpenguino

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#2562097 11-Sep-2020 11:09

geekIT:

elpenguino, thanks for the comment.

However, I've read that a generator, as well as delivering a tool's running wattage, needs to cope with the startup wattage, which apparently can be almost double the run figure.

Considering that this startup demand would occur on every run (rather than just once, as would happen with a bench saw that's started and left running), it would seem that a 2800w generator would be necessary.

As I said, I have no idea if this is correct, which is why I asked the question. Perhaps I need to ask Makita about the startup demand of my saw.

Some electric motor start up currents can peak instantaneously at 6 times the load current.

It's less of a problem for you because you'll be starting your tool before loading the tool by cutting, and also probably/hopefully using a brushless motor with some kind of soft start control built into the tool.

But yes, a larger generator won't hurt and may even cost the same.

PS the word is power, measured in Watts.

Most of the posters in this thread are just like chimpanzees on MDMA, full of feelings of bonhomie, joy, and optimism. Fred99 8/4/21

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#2562100 11-Sep-2020 11:12

EcosseTech: If you need to blast thru pallets, get a chainsaw..

Cheers

Depends on the circumstances, there's a few places locally that leave pallets out for firewood but they expect them gone with no mess left behind and there's nothing like the noise of a chainsaw for getting unwanted attention.

tchart

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#2562210 11-Sep-2020 11:47

Bung:
EcosseTech: If you need to blast thru pallets, get a chainsaw..

Cheers

Depends on the circumstances, there's a few places locally that leave pallets out for firewood but they expect them gone with no mess left behind and there's nothing like the noise of a chainsaw for getting unwanted attention.

Ive got a 2 x 18V chainsaw, its quiet as!

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#2562215 11-Sep-2020 11:54

How much is 2000W+ generator going to set you back?

You can buy something like this if looking at the chainsaw route;

https://www.bunnings.co.nz/ozito-pxc-18v-chainsaw-kit_p3381168

Or even if you went for the 2 x 18V brushless one plus pabberies youd still get change from $500.

BTW Ozito is the same as Einhell which you mentioned.

1101

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#2562225 11-Sep-2020 12:09

cutting up pellets for firewood , a chainsaw is a better option , either petrol , batt or electric(mains powered).

tieke

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#2562227 11-Sep-2020 12:13

I would definitely suggest going brushless on a cordless circular saw - I saw a big improvement when I upgraded my old 165mm Makita LXT circular saw to the brushless version - it lasted better/was able to cut through thicker/wetter wood etc.

The Makita is a great tool - I haven't used my wired skillsaw since I bought it, and if you're using two batteries the second one will be charged by the time the first one runs out.

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#2562232 11-Sep-2020 12:24

The Makita I'm talking about is the DHS680Z. It doesn't come with a battery though, so you might have to look for a bundle deal, although I wouldn't get lower than a 5.0Ah battery. I've got a whole bunch of Makita LXT stuff and I think it's one of their best, although already having multiple batteries and chargers was obviously helpful.

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#2562262 11-Sep-2020 12:54

The other thing that I suggest when buying a power tool.

You watch a few videos from AvE and Project Farm.

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geekIT

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#2562443 11-Sep-2020 16:39

Thanks for all the comments, guys.

Weighing up all the options, I think the generator option might be best. The one below looks OK, though freight from ChCh to Invergiggle won't be cheap.

Thing is, as as ex-builder from way back, I've always bought best-of-the-range gear, so the Milwaukee Fuel 165mm cordless would be my choice. But it's probably gonna cost me $800-$900 with a couple of big batteries. Whereas the generator would probably be around $600 delivered.

Also, a generator is something I might use again for something other than pallet cutting, or I might hire it out.

But I really don't need another power saw for home use - I already have several very adequate corded saws and a Tanner bench saw.

https://www.savebarn.co.nz/6-5hp-petrol-generator-3-0kw-240v-50hz-1x15a-18l-gasoline-power-generators-525

It's been an interesting exercise, though. If I was back in the trade, I'd definitely invest in the Milwaukee Fuel saw range.

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#2562451 11-Sep-2020 16:57

Why not use a trailer to pick up the pallets and bring back to your place. Even if you have to hire a trailer for a day it will still be cheaper.

Edit: Or just hire a Generator for the day.

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#2562900 12-Sep-2020 14:19

djtOtago:

Why not use a trailer to pick up the pallets and bring back to your place. Even if you have to hire a trailer for a day it will still be cheaper.

Edit: Or just hire a Generator for the day.

I've cut up 300-400 pallets at my place over the last few years, but I now have more and closer neighbours, so I'm trying to make less racket.

Re the hire option, the closest depot is about 50K, around 2 hrs there and back, plus the same again to return it. Not practical.

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#2562929 12-Sep-2020 16:35

I have used the a makita 18v (LXT not brushless) circular saw. Did ok, but noticeably weaker then a 230v circular saw. Most brands offer more expensive, higher voltage cordless option (sometimes using two 18v batteries to maintain comparability with peoples existing battery eco-system.

Havn't used a Reciprocating Saw, so can't comment on them.

In general the nicer battery tools are better value if you buy into one of the brands ecosystems and have two batteries, a charger and multiple skins. Often drill, driver, battery charger kits are sold relatively cheap to attract people into a brand ecosystem.

Regarding preference for trade quality tools, but not being able to justify the price, you could consider buying used. This auction closes in 3 days, and is likely to sell for well below your generator budget. (It is likely one battery will be enough, but if not you can add another later, possibly a "compadiable" one to keep costs reasonable.

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/marketplace/building-renovation/tools/power-tools/saws/listing/2774222345

Regarding generators, the non-inverter types have rotational inertia, so are reasonably good at stating stuff. You could go smaller if you wanted. Be aware that the open frame 3000RPM generators are pritty loud. Also at 45kg + fuel it is best lifted by two people. Personally I would want to avoid owning a cheap unbranded generator.

Other option you could consider is a big inverter to run off your car battery (with engine running). For example $321 buys this 2000w modified sine inverter (4000W peak). These inverters are have non momentum so are really fussy about starting current, but my gut feeling is 4000W should be sufficient. Under 1/2 the price of the generator, and with minimal storage & mantaince requirements this looks good on paper. - I don't know if this comes with battery clips or if you would need to make them up. Haven't tried to run a saw off an inverter myself.

geekIT:

djtOtago:

Why not use a trailer to pick up the pallets and bring back to your place. Even if you have to hire a trailer for a day it will still be cheaper.

Edit: Or just hire a Generator for the day.

I've cut up 300-400 pallets at my place over the last few years, but I now have more and closer neighbours, so I'm trying to make less racket.

Re the hire option, the closest depot is about 50K, around 2 hrs there and back, plus the same again to return it. Not practical.

If at home, you could run an extention cord, and use your existing electric saws. Generally these are not obnoxiously loud if used at a reasonable hour. If you already have a trailer, this will most likely be the cheapest and easiest option.

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