Power tool kickbacks
A kickback is a sudden upward movement that can occur if the tool or material being worked on binds or pinches unexpectedly. Such a rapid tool reaction could lead to potential serious injuries or worse.
The best way to avoid kickbacks is to follow standard practice when setting up your working environment and tool. Never use the tool in the kickback zone, and always refer to the operator's manual for proper operation.
X-Halt™ Blade Brake Operation
The Husqvarna X-Halt™ blade brake function is an electronic braking system capable of stopping the rotation of the blade within a fraction of a second. If the X-Halt™ algorithm detects abnormal blade speed, the software signals the motor to shut down.
Remember: X-Halt™ cannot fully prevent personal injury. Only a safe working technique can.
PRIME™ products access the X-Halt™ function by connecting to the PP 8 or PP 70 power pack (with update). X-Halt™ is included with the following PRIME™ products: K 7000, K 7000 Ring, K 7000 Flushcut Chain and K 7000 Chain.
The K 1 PACE high-power battery cutter and the K 540i feature the same X-Halt™ blade brake function.
Different types of kickbacks
Rotational kickbacks occur when the cutting blade can't move freely in the kickback zone. Moving the tool when it's rotating can also create unexpected gyroscopic forces and kickbacks. If the kickback zone is used for cutting, the reactive force drives the blade to climb up in the cut. To avoid climbing kickbacks, do not use the kickback zone. Always use the lower quadrant of the blade.
Pinching kickbacks occur when the cut closes and pinches the blade. If the blade is pinched or stalled, the reactive force will be strong, and you might be unable to control the power cutter. If the blade is pinched or stalled in the kickback zone, the reactive force will push the power cutter up and back towards the user in a rotating motion, potentially causing severe or even fatal injury. Be alert for potential movement of the workpiece. If the workpiece is not supported correctly and shifts as you cut, it might pinch the blade and cause a kickback.
Special care should be taken when cutting in pipes. If the pipe is not supported correctly, the blade might be pinched, and a severe kickback may occur.
