Clarification on best Kapex blade for ipe decking

[lindauer]

I found an old thread and blog post addressing this question:

http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-how-to/do-i-have-the-right-kapex-blade/

http://blog.festoolusa.com/post/2010/11/16/Perfectly-square-cuts-on-Ipe-using-the-Kapex.aspx

But the blog is ambiguous. It says to use the "laminate saw blade", then gives the product number of the "aluminum / plastic saw blade". Which of these do I want to buy for an Ipe deck project?

 

[Birdhunter]

I built a bunch of Ipe outdoor benches using my Kapex.

I used the standard (comes with the saw) Festool blade. I cut a lot of boards and my blade is still sharp..
If you already know this, please excuse me, but Ipe dust is bad stuff! Even on skin it is bad and much worse if inhaled. I showered at the end of each cutting period. I used the Festool vac on the Kapex and it captured most of the dust.

Also, the darn word will start to split almost as soon as it is cut. Treating the ends with wax or a commercial product helps prevent splitting.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Apologies, it looks like the blog post has an incorrect item number and link. It should be the laminate blade, 495386.

https://www.festoolusa.com/power-tool-accessories/miter-saws/blades/solid-surface-laminate-64-tooth-saw-blade-495386

Like I said in that post, I think that I recall a recommendation of a slower speed on the Kapex for Ipe. I know we have numerous forum members who have worked with Ipe and can likely give more assistance.

Shane

 

[lindauer]

Thanks for the quick replies. Birdhunter, were you using a dust vac? I guess I should definitely get one if I'm going to do this project out of ipe.

 

[WarnerConstCo.]

I use a sharp blade, have no preference as long as its sharp.

Never turned the saw speed down.

Dust has never bothered me.

 

[Birdhunter]

Yes, I was using a Midi hooked up to the Kapex. Not 100%, but pretty good. I had to change the bag a couple of times to maintain mammal vacuum.

I wore a long sleeve shirt, but the dust that got on my hands itched until I showered.

Some people are immune to poison ivy and other irritants and some people are highly sensitive to them. Ipe is one of the woods listed as being an irritant. I guess I'm moderately sensitive to it.