What is a Panel Saw and What is it Used For?

A panel saw is an essential tool in woodworking, designed specifically for cutting large sheet materials like plywood, MDF, melamine, and plastic. It ensures precise, straight cuts and is widely used in industries such as cabinetry, furniture making, and sign manufacturing. Panel saws come in two main types: vertical and horizontal, each with its advantages depending on workspace size and production needs.

Types of Panel Saws

1. Vertical Panel Saws

Vertical panel saws hold the material upright, making them a space-saving option for workshops with limited floor space. They operate in two ways:

Lower-cost models require the user to manually slide the material through the saw for lengthwise (rip) cuts.
Higher-end models allow the saw blade to move through stationary material, making the cutting process easier and more precise.

2. Horizontal Panel Saws

Horizontal panel saws feature a sliding feed table that pushes the material through the blade. These machines are ideal for high-volume manufacturing, as they offer faster and more automated cutting. Table saws without a sliding feed table can also cut sheet goods but require manual feeding.

History of the Sliding Panel Saw

The sliding panel saw was invented in 1906 by Wilhelm Altendorf in Germany, revolutionising the woodworking industry. Before its invention, traditional table saws required manual feeding, leading to inefficiencies and inaccuracies. The sliding table mechanism allowed for smoother, more precise cuts, setting a new standard in woodworking machinery.

Looking to buy a panel saw?
We stock trusted brands and a wide range of panel saws for sale in Australia — backed by expert advice, service, and Australia-wide delivery.

Key Features of Panel Saws

Scoring Saw Blade: Some panel saws include a secondary scoring blade that rotates in the opposite direction of the main blade to prevent chipping, especially when cutting laminated materials.
Computer Controls: High-end panel saws feature CNC automation, where the blade and fence move to preset values, increasing efficiency and accuracy.
Manual vs. Automatic Feed: Lower-end models require manual operation, while more advanced machines offer automatic feeding systems for increased productivity.

Benefits of Using a Panel Saw

Precision & Accuracy: Provides straight, consistent cuts, reducing material waste.
Efficiency: Speeds up the cutting process compared to handheld saws.
Safety: Materials are firmly held in place, reducing the risk of injury.
Versatility: Capable of cutting various materials, including wood, laminates, plastics, and aluminium sheets.

Common Applications of Panel Saws

Cabinet Making: Ensures precise cuts for cabinet doors and panels.
Furniture Manufacturing: Used for cutting components of tables, wardrobes, and shelves.
Sign Making: Cuts plastic and aluminium composite materials for sign blanks.
Construction: Assists in cutting prefabricated components for installation.

Choosing the Right Panel Saw

When selecting a panel saw, consider the following factors:

Workshop Space: Opt for a vertical panel saw if floor space is limited.
Production Volume: A horizontal panel saw is best for high-volume cutting.
Material Type: Ensure the saw is compatible with the materials you frequently use.
Budget: From entry-level models to advanced CNC panel saws, choose one that suits your needs.