Notching is a process of creating a narrow groove or indentation in a surface for a variety of purposes.

Uses:

• Joining: Notching is commonly used in joining timber beams and rafters together, known as mortise and tenon joints.
• Attachment: Notches can be used to attach brackets or other hardware to surfaces.
• Routing: Notching is used in routing operations to create grooves for fasteners, electrical wires, or other components.
• Molding: Notches can be used to create molds for casting or shaping materials.
• Decoration: Notching is used in decorative applications, such as creating intricate patterns or reliefs.
• Structural reinforcement: Notches can be used to reinforce structural members, such as beams and columns.

Methods:

• Hand notching: This is the traditional method of notching using a sharp knife or axe.
• Machine notching: Modern machines, such as routers and saws, can perform notching operations with greater precision and speed.
• Electrical notching: Electrical tools, such as laser cutters and plasma cutters, can be used for precise notching.

Types:

• Straight notch: A simple perpendicular notch.
• Dovetail notch: A notched shape used in dovetail joints.
• Through-and-through notch: A notch that extends completely through the thickness of the material.
• Half-notched: A notch that only partially penetrates the material.
• Step notch: A series of notches of different depths.

Materials:

Notching can be performed on a wide range of materials, including:

• Wood
• Stone
• Metal
• Concrete
• Plastic
• Composite materials

Examples:

• Notched beams and rafters in construction.
• Notches for attaching brackets to walls.
• Notched grooves for electrical wiring.
• Notched patterns in decorative molding.
• Notched holes for fasteners.