Firefighter Practice Exam

What type of blade is least suitable for cutting metal?

1. Carbide blade

2. Steel-cutting blade

3. Silicon carbide blade

4. Aluminum blade

The correct answer is: Aluminum blade

The aluminum blade is least suitable for cutting metal because it is specifically designed for cutting softer materials like aluminum and similar non-ferrous metals. These blades typically lack the hardness and durability necessary to cut through harder materials such as steel or iron effectively. The design and composition of an aluminum blade do not provide the teeth structure or cutting edge required to handle the rigors of cutting harder metals, which could lead to rapid wear or damage to the blade. In contrast, carbide blades, steel-cutting blades, and silicon carbide blades are engineered specifically for cutting metals, featuring materials and designs that allow them to sustain the stress and resistance associated with tougher metals. Their hardness and tooth geometry make them effective for various metal-cutting applications, setting them apart from a blade designed primarily for softer materials like aluminum.