If you want to add a panel saw to your woodworking shop, then you can install a traditional table-mounted unit. However, you should also look at vertical panel saws as an alternative. How do these saws work and what are their benefits?

What Is a Vertical Panel Saw?

A table panel saw works horizontally. You put your wood flat down on the table and use the saw on it. Vertical panel units do the same kinds of sawing jobs but they work differently.

Here, the saw sits vertically rather than horizontally. You usually stand these saws up against a wall. When you want to use them, you attach the wood to the panel. You then use the saw on it in its upright standing position.

What Are the Advantages of Vertical Panel Saws?

One of the most useful features of a vertical panel saw is its size and configuration. If you don't have a lot of room in your shop, then you might not be able to easily fit in a standard table panel saw. You might have to cram machines too close together which isn't safe. Or, you might have to compromise and buy a smaller unit than you really need. Vertical panel saws take up less room. They stand against walls. So, you don't have to lose much floor space at all. You simply need some clearance and working space around the unit.

Vertical panel saws also have some worker benefits. If your workers use a table panel saw, then they will spend a lot of their time bending over the table as they work. This can lead to back strains and discomfort. Plus, you might need to put a couple of workers on some of your sawing jobs. You'll need two pairs of hands to move wood into the right positions and to hold it steady when you use a table panel saw.

If you switch to using a vertical panel saw, then things get easier. People don't have to bend over these saws when they use them, they can stand upright. They might need to squat down to make lower cuts; however, this movement shouldn't cause any back problems.

Plus, it's a lot easier for one operator to use a vertical panel saw. You won't need to allocate as much manpower to these jobs.

To find out more about vertical panel saws and how they might work in your shop, contact woodworking machinery manufacturers or suppliers. They can show you examples of vertical units and tell you more about their benefits.