Parts of a Chainsaw
OSHA
#1 Chain Catcher- The chain catcher is a metal or plastic guard designed to prevent a broken or derailed saw chain from striking the operator. See figure 1 in the OSHA parts photo.
#2 Flywheel- The flywheel is a weighted wheel that controls engine speed and assists in cooling the engine. See figure 2 in the OSHA parts photo.
#3 Clutch- The clutch, attached to the chain sprocket, is the connector that controls the driving part of a saw. See figure 3 in the OSHA parts photo.
#4 Decompression valve- This important valve releases saw compression which allows easier starting. See figure 4 in the OSHA parts photo.
#5 and #7 Anti-vibration Handle System- This system of handle shocks is recommended by OSHA to limit ergonomic stress to the operator's hands, arms and joints. See figure 5 and 7 in the OSHA parts photo.
#6 Hand guard- The hand guard is a defensive plastic shield that protects a users hands from kickback. See figure 6 in the OSHA parts photo.
#8 Muffler- The muffler is a hearing protection device used on chainsaws to reduce engine noise. See figure 8 in the OSHA parts photo.
#9 Chain brake- Adding a chain brake to all saws was a safety requirement enabled in February, 1995. The function of the chain brake is to stop the chain if kickback occurs to prevent user injury. See figure 9 in the OSHA parts photo.
#10 Throttle- The throttle regulates a saw's RPMs by increasing or decreasing the volume of fuel to the cylinders. The chainsaw will stop the chain when pressure on the throttle is released. See figure 10 in the OSHA parts photo.
#11 Throttle Interlock This locking mechanism prevents the throttle from activating until the interlock is depressed. See figure 11 in the OSHA parts photo.
