BAND SAW

 

 

A bandsaw is a power saw with a long, sharp blade consisting of a continuous band of toothed metal stretched between two or more wheels to cut material.

Advantages include uniform cutting action as a result of an evenly distributed tooth load, and the ability to cut irregular or curved shapes like a jigsaw.

The minimum radius of a curve is determined by the width of the band and its kerf.

The bandsaw has two wheels rotating in the same plane, one of which is powered. The blade itself can come in a variety of sizes and tooth pitches (teeth per inch, or TPI), which enables the machine to be highly versatile and able to cut a wide variety of materials including wood, metal, and plastic.

The bandsaw is powered by an electric motor.

Safety Reminders

The following is a list of safety precautions to consider when cutting with a bandsaw:

  1. Keep your fingers out of the path of the blade
  2. Decrease the feed pressure as you approach the end of the cut
  3. Keep the wheel covers shut when the saw is running
  4. Adjust the upper guide approximately 1/4 in. above the workpiece before starting the saw
  5. Keep the blade guard in place
  6. Disconnect the bandsaw from the power source before changing blades
  7. Always wear eye protection when working with the bandsaw
  8. If the blade breaks or runs off the wheels, do not open the covers until the machine has come to a complete stop
  9. Stop the saw before removing small chips that have become stuck in the throat
  10. Use push sticks when necessary to avoid placing your fingers near the blade.
  11. Be sure the workpiece stays in contact with the table at the point where the blade exits.