Rasps and files are both tools for shaping. In the case of rasps, the teeth are formed separately and are disconnected. Files, on the other hand, have a single set of diagonal rows of teeth, parallel to one another and extending across the working face of the file. Rasps produce coarse, while files more refined surfaces. You use rasps if you want to remove a relatively large superfluous part. The surface you get after rasping must further be refined by a file or sandpaper. Rasps and files are manufactured with different profiles and in various sizes. The rasp you can you for the most general purposes is the half round design. The common file shapes have flat, round, half round and triangle profiles. You use triangle files when sharpening saws.
(Rasps and files)
(Rasp and file edges)
So as to prevent tear burrs at the edges of plywood or the ends of strips, move the file in a slight diagonal motion. These parts are accessible for the file from the two sides. If one side is ready, turn the workpiece and file the other side in the same way. Finally, carefully file off the edge formed in the middle.
(Burring)
(Filng the first side)
(Filing the other side after turning the workpiece)
(Filing the edge formed in the middle as the last step)
Rasps and files must be carefully maintained. After use they get filled with resined wood dust. Hard wire brushes are not recommended for cleaning them; instead, use a hard scrubbing brush moving it in the direction of the teeth of the tool.
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