Workshop practice — hacksawing and kerf control In metalworking with a hand hacksaw, the slot (kerf) produced during cutting is __________ the actual blade width because of tooth set and clearance. Choose the most accurate relation.

Introduction / Context:
The term kerf refers to the width of the material removed by a cutting tool. In hand hacksawing and power sawing operations, understanding why the kerf exceeds the blade's nominal thickness helps in precision fitting, minimizing material waste, and avoiding jamming of the blade in the cut.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard hand hacksaw blade with set teeth.
• Workpiece is a typical metal bar or plate.
• Normal cutting conditions with proper tension and lubricant (if used).

Concept / Approach:
Hacksaw teeth are given a tooth set (alternating left–right or wave set). This set displaces teeth slightly sideways relative to the blade body, creating a cut wider than the blade thickness. The kerf must exceed blade thickness to prevent binding from thermal expansion, chips, and minor misalignment, thereby ensuring free blade movement and straighter cuts.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify that tooth set spreads the cutting edges outwards from the blade body.Recognize that two flanks cut simultaneously, producing a slot wider than the blade stock.Conclude that kerf width > blade width under normal, sharp-tool conditions.

Verification / Alternative check:
Measuring a cut with feeler gauges or calipers typically shows kerf larger than blade thickness; manufacturers specify set values that directly add to kerf.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Equal to: ignores tooth set; Less than: physically impossible with set teeth; Cannot be predicted / depends only on cutting speed: kerf primarily depends on set geometry, not speed alone.

Common Pitfalls:
Using a worn blade with lost set causes rubbing and deviation; over-tensioning the frame can also distort the cut.

Final Answer:
greater than