TPI means teeth per inch
TPI describes tooth spacing along the cutting edge. It does not describe blade length, width or thickness. A variable-pitch designation such as 10/14 TPI indicates a changing tooth pitch, not a single averaged value.
Match the teeth to the work
Coarser tooth spacing provides larger spaces between teeth for chip removal. Finer spacing provides more teeth over a given distance. The suitable pitch depends on the material, the thickness of the section being cut and the blade design.
Thin-wall tubing and a thick solid section of the same material can need different tooth configurations. Follow the blade maker’s material and section-thickness chart instead of selecting from TPI alone.
Size first, cutting specification second
- Confirm the saw’s required length and supported width and thickness.
- Choose a blade material and tooth form suitable for the workpiece using the blade manufacturer’s guidance.
- Check the recommended pitch and the saw’s speed settings in their respective documentation. Do not assume every same-length blade suits wood, metal and every portable saw.
For model-specific requirements, use the Finder and follow the manufacturer documents linked on the model page.