Download a full presentation of this practical overview of band sawing basics. (PDF)
Summary
- The Operators – The largest variable
- The Number of Teeth in the Band – 3 minimum, 6-12 optimum, 24 maximum
- Tooth Style – Standard, Skip, Sabre, or Variable Pitch.
- Tooth Set – Regular, Wavy, Every Tooth Set, or Modified Raker.
- Band Tension – Measured with the patented Simonds Simometer.
- Band Speed – Start with the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- Break-In Procedure – Reduce normal feed rate by ½
- Feed Rate – Set rate by square inches per minute suggested by manufacturer
- Band Quality – Carbon vs. Bimetal or Carbide Tipped, one brand vs. another.
- Machine Type – Different makes and models, horsepower of motor.
- Wheels – Check alignment, bearings, flanges.
- Machine Condition – Old, new, well-maintained.
- Proper Vises – To hold the work firmly.
- Guides – Should support the band, roller guides should barely turn by hand.
- Guide Arms – Should be as close to the work as possible for support.
- Brushes – Aid in the cleaning chips from the gullet of the band
- Coolant – Should wash, cool and lubricate
- Material Machinability – The toughness of a metal can reduce tool life.
- Material Hardness – A Rc of 40 has a machinability approaching 0.
- Material Shape – Structural and small solids tend to be harder on the band.
- Production Requirement – Continuous vs. intermittent use.
- Room Temperature – Affects hydraulic fluids in the machine.
- Any one variable or any combination of the above variables can affect band saw life!