Bandsaw Blades & Accessories

When choosing a bandsaw blade, consider the material type, thickness, and the desired cut quality. The width of the blade determines the minimum radius it can cut, with narrower blades suited for intricate curves and wider blades for straight cuts. The TPI is another consideration that affects the cut speed and finish – fewer teeth cut faster but rougher, while more teeth create a smoother cut but are slower.

The width of the bandsaw blade affects its ability to make straight cuts and its stability during cutting. Wider blades are better for straight, long cuts and resawing, while narrower blades are ideal for curves and intricate shapes. The TPI influences the cut speed and finish; higher TPI blades make smoother cuts but are slower, and lower TPI blades are faster but produce a rougher finish.

To install and tension a bandsaw blade, first, ensure the saw is unplugged. Place the blade on the wheels and adjust the tension until the blade is snug but not overly tight. The blade should deflect no more than about 1/4 inch when pushed. Once tensioned, align the blade to run centrally on the wheels and adjust the blade guides.

When handling bandsaw blades, always disconnect the power to prevent accidental start-ups. Wear protective gloves to avoid cuts from sharp teeth. Ensure the blade is tensioned correctly and tracked to prevent slippage or breakage during use. Keep your fingers away from the blade path, and use push sticks or feather boards for small pieces. Before operating the saw, double-check the blade's alignment, tension, and guide settings. Always work in a well-lit area and avoid distractions to maintain focus while cutting.

Bandsaw blades should be sharpened when they lose efficiency, which is typically signalled by a decrease in cutting speed, difficulty in maintaining a straight cut, or when the blade starts producing rough finishes. Other signs include excessive noise or vibration during cutting and needing more force than usual. The frequency of sharpening depends on the blade's material, the type of wood or material being cut, and the intensity of use. Regularly inspect the blade for dullness, and sharpen or replace it as necessary.

Yes, bandsaw blades can cut various materials besides wood, including soft metals and plastics, provided the appropriate blade type is used. Metal-cutting blades typically have finer teeth and are made of stronger materials like bi-metal or carbide to handle the hardness of metals. When cutting non-wood materials, it's important to adjust the saw's speed accordingly and ensure the blade suits the material's hardness and thickness. Ensure to use suitable extraction for the material you are cutting.

To maintain bandsaw blades:

1. Store them in a dry environment to prevent rust.
2. Hang them on a dedicated rack or coiled correctly on a shelf.
3. Avoid hanging them where they can be knocked or where they might uncoil and cause injury.
4. Keep them away from heat sources and chemicals that could damage the metal. If storing blades coiled, ensure they are coiled correctly to prevent kinks or bends that could damage the blade.

Maintain your bandsaw blade by cleaning it regularly to remove pitch, sap, and sawdust buildup that can affect performance. Regularly check for and replace worn or damaged tires on the wheels. Ensure proper blade tension and alignment for optimal cutting and to reduce wear. Lubricate the blade guides and pivot points as needed. Inspect the blade regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or broken teeth, and replace it when necessary. Following a maintenance routine helps prolong the blade's life and ensures consistent cutting performance.

Carbon steel bandsaw blades are ideal for general woodworking and softer materials. They are less expensive yet still durable, especially when used on more challenging materials. Bi-metal blades have high-speed steel teeth and a flexible back, offering higher durability and the ability to cut harder materials like metal. They retain sharpness longer and can handle more intensive use. The choice between carbon steel and bi-metal depends on the materials you plan to cut and the frequency of use.

Bearing guides on a bandsaw supports the blade, keeping it stable and reducing blade deflection during cutting. To set them up, adjust the guides so they are just behind the gullets of the teeth without touching the blade when idle. Ensure the bearings are aligned with the blade and rotate freely. Properly adjusted bearing guides improve the accuracy of cuts and extend the blade's life by reducing wear and heat buildup.

Upgrading to a high-rise bandsaw fence is beneficial for resawing and cutting thicker materials. A high-rise fence provides greater support and stability for the workpiece, allowing for more accurate and controlled cuts. It's particularly useful for maintaining a consistent thickness when resawing or slicing veneers. The taller fence also offers better guidance for the workpiece, ensuring straighter cuts and reducing the likelihood of blade drift. For woodworkers who frequently work with larger, thicker materials, a high-rise fence is an invaluable addition to enhance the capabilities of their bandsaw.

To align a bandsaw blade so it runs true, first, ensure the blade is properly tensioned. Adjust the tracking by tilting the upper wheel with the tracking knob until the blade sits centrally on the wheel's crown. The blade should run smoothly without rubbing against the guides. Next, adjust the guide assemblies so they are close to, but not touching, the blade. The blade should be free to move slightly without excessive deflection. Regular blade alignment is crucial for accurate cuts and prolonging the life of the blade and the bandsaw.