Knowing how a dog grooming clipper blade (A5 style) works is part of the science behind efficient and effective clipping. Not knowing how a blade should work will cost you time and money. Here are a few helpful tips from Dog Clipping Experts. 1. How the blade works
Depending on the clipper you are using, will depict the speed of the clipper blade. Once you start clipping, the hair is guided into the blade with the sole plate which acts as an attachment comb. At the point where the top cutting teeth meet the sole plate, this is point where the hair is cut. The hair then travels out of the blade between the front teeth and the back rail of the sole plate.
2. The blade is not sharpened correctly
Clipper blades do not have flat surfaces when you look at them, the teeth are slightly angled differently to the back rail to enable the teeth to cut along the front. If corrective sharpening is not undertaken by a professional engineer, you will experience dragging and snagging within the coat.
3. The tension is too tight
If the top cutter on the clipper blade won't move, then the tension could be too tight. How to check for correct blade tension is by moving the top cutter with your thumb. If the cutter does not budge or it is very difficult to move, then the tension is too tight. If however the top cutter moves very freely then the blade tension spring is under tension and can cause the same symptom as over tension.
4. Rattling blades
Over a period of time where your blade lever drives the clipper blade at very high speed, the ears on the blade can spread and cause rattling. The ears are the two pieces of metal that protrudes upwards and are the locating points when attached to the clipper. Take a pair of pliers and gently pinch the ears together to stop rattling.
5. Poor maintenance Not finding time to look after your equipment can cost you more in servicing and sharpening long term. Cleaning and oiling your blades daily will save you pounds in replacements and help you run a more efficient business.
Effective blade cleaning should be done every time you finish a dog or cat to safeguard against cross contamination. Use Clipit Ice Care spray for quick effective sterilisation. For a deep clean to remove blade plaque that builds up between the teeth you should soak for 10 mins in Blade Wash.
To keep your blades cool and smooth running, you need OIL! The easiest and most effective product on the market is Clipt Easi-Oil Spray.
It has quick cooling properties and a micro fine oil that will not leave an oily residue within the pet’s coat.
For further advice on clipper blades, please email us your concerns.
