If more dust than sawdust is produced when cutting with a chainsaw chain, does this mean the chain is dull?

Yes, if more dust is generated instead of sawdust when cutting with a chainsaw chain, it usually indicates that the chainsaw chain has become dull. The design purpose of a chainsaw chain is to effectively cut wood and produce sawdust, which is a normal cutting product, indicating that the chain is smoothly separating the wood. When the chain becomes dull, its cutting ability weakens and it cannot accurately cut into wood and effectively segment wood fibers like a sharp chain. On the contrary, the chain will rely more on friction to forcefully push the cutting, which can cause the wood to be crushed instead of cut, resulting in more fine dust instead of clear sawdust.
This situation usually occurs when the cutting teeth of the chain have worn out to the point where they cannot maintain a sharp edge. The blunted chain cutting effect deteriorates, making it easy for the surface of the wood to be crushed, producing more dust or debris instead of regular sawdust. This not only means that the chain cannot function properly, but may also lead to higher friction and heat, thereby accelerating the wear of components such as the chain, guide plate, and sprocket.