FEIN AHKS 18-57 AS 18V Cordless Brushless AMPShare F-Iron Cut 150mm Circular Saw User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your FEIN AHKS 18-57 AS 18V Cordless Brushless AMPShare F-Iron Cut 150mm Circular Saw. Please read this manual thoroughly before initial use and keep it for future reference. This circular saw is designed for cutting metal materials with precision and efficiency.

2. Safety Instructions

Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. This tool is powerful and requires careful handling.

• Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and appropriate work gloves when operating the saw.
• Work Area: Ensure your work area is clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions. Keep bystanders away.
• Tool Condition: Inspect the tool, blade, and battery for any damage before each use. Do not operate a damaged tool.
• Secure Workpiece: Always secure the workpiece firmly to prevent movement during cutting.
• Proper Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands during operation.
• Swarf Management: The saw is equipped with a swarf collecting vessel. Ensure it is properly attached and emptied regularly to prevent accumulation of hot swarf.
• Battery Safety: Use only compatible AMPShare batteries. Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures or moisture.
• Dead Man's Switch: The saw features a dead man's switch for safety. The tool will stop when the switch is released.
• Restart Protection: Be aware of restart protection, which prevents the tool from automatically restarting after a power interruption.
• Temperature Shutdown: The tool has temperature-based shutdown to prevent overheating. Allow the tool to cool if this occurs.
• Pendulum Protection Cover: Ensure the pendulum protection cover is functioning correctly and not obstructed.

3. Product Components

Familiarize yourself with the main parts of your FEIN AHKS 18-57 AS circular saw.

Figure 3.1: Overall view of the FEIN AHKS 18-57 AS Cordless Brushless Circular Saw, highlighting its compact design and the battery interface.

Figure 3.2: Side profile of the circular saw, showing the base plate, blade guard, and ergonomic handle design.

Figure 3.3: Detailed view of the AMPShare battery connection area and the tool's control panel, including speed settings or indicators.

• Motor Housing: Contains the brushless motor.
• Handle: Ergonomically designed for secure grip.
• Blade Guard: Retractable guard for blade protection.
• Base Plate: Provides stability and guides the saw along the workpiece.
• Blade Clamp/Arbor: Secures the circular saw blade.
• Swarf Collecting Vessel: Collects metal chips and debris during cutting.
• Battery Interface: Compatible with AMPShare 18V batteries.
• Guide Rail Adapter: Removable adapter for compatibility with common guide rails.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation

1. Ensure the saw is switched off and the dead man's switch is disengaged.
2. Align the AMPShare 18V battery with the battery slot on the saw.
3. Slide the battery into the slot until it clicks securely into place.
4. To remove, press the battery release button and slide the battery out.

4.2 Blade Installation/Change

Always disconnect the battery before changing the blade.

1. Place the saw on a stable surface.
2. Locate the blade locking mechanism (if present) and engage it to prevent blade rotation.
3. Using the provided socket head wrench (5 mm), loosen the arbor nut.
4. Carefully open the blade guard and remove the old blade.
5. Install the new 150mm circular saw blade for construction steel, ensuring the rotation direction matches the arrow on the saw.
6. Tighten the arbor nut securely with the wrench.
7. Disengage the blade locking mechanism and ensure the blade guard moves freely.

4.3 Attaching Accessories

• Swarf Collecting Vessel: Attach the swarf collecting vessel to the designated port on the saw. Ensure it is fitted securely to collect up to 80% of hot swarf.
• Guide Rail Adapter: For straight, long cuts, attach the removable guide rail adapter to the saw's base plate. This allows compatibility with common guide rails (e.g., Makita, Bosch, Festool, Mafell).
• Parallel Stop: Utilize the parallel stop for consistent rip cuts. Insert it into the designated slot on the base plate and adjust to the desired width.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Powering On/Off

• To turn on the saw, depress the dead man's switch. The saw will begin to operate.
• To turn off the saw, release the dead man's switch. The efficient brake will stop the blade within approximately 0.2 seconds.

5.2 Making Cuts

This saw is specifically designed for cutting metal. Ensure the correct blade for construction steel is installed.

Figure 5.1: Demonstrates proper two-hand grip while cutting a metal sheet, ensuring stability and control.

Figure 5.2: Illustrates the cutting action on metal, showing the efficient removal of material and controlled spark generation.

Figure 5.3: Shows the saw being used with a compatible guide rail, enabling precise and straight cuts on larger metal pieces.

1. Prepare Workpiece: Secure the metal workpiece firmly to a stable surface using clamps or a vise.
2. Position Saw: Place the saw's base plate flat on the workpiece, ensuring the blade is aligned with your cut line. The pendulum protection cover will retract as you begin the cut.
3. Start Cut: Depress the dead man's switch and allow the blade to reach full speed before engaging the material.
4. Feed Rate: Apply steady, even pressure to feed the saw through the material. Do not force the saw; let the tool do the work.
5. Complete Cut: Continue through the material until the cut is complete. Release the dead man's switch to stop the blade.
6. After Cut: Wait for the blade to come to a complete stop before lifting the saw from the workpiece.

5.3 AMPShare Compatibility

The FEIN AHKS 18-57 AS is part of the AMPShare 18V battery system, powered by Bosch. This allows for flexible use of compatible 18V batteries across various professional tools, optimizing efficiency and reducing the need for multiple battery systems.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your circular saw.

• Cleaning:
  • After each use, empty the swarf collecting vessel.
  • Use a dry cloth or soft brush to clean dust and debris from the tool's ventilation openings and exterior.
  • Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect the circular saw blade for wear, damage, or dullness. Replace dull or damaged blades promptly to maintain cutting efficiency and safety.
• Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Do not store fully discharged batteries for extended periods.
• Storage: Store the saw in its L-BOXX case in a dry, secure location, out of reach of children.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Technical Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support for your FEIN AHKS 18-57 AS circular saw, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official FEIN website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

For further assistance, contact FEIN customer service through their official channels. Ensure you have your product model number (AHKS 18-57 AS or 71360461000) and purchase details ready.