Filter
Top Products
basic band saw operation
A band saw is basically a "curve cutting" machine. It
is also used for straight-line cutting operations such
as cross cutting, ripping, mitering, beveling, com-
pound cutting, and resawing. It is not capable of
doing inside cutting.
For general type scroll cutting, follow the pattern lines
by pushing and turning the workpiece at the same
time. Don't try to turn the workpiece while engaged in
the blade without pushing it; the workpiece could bind
or twist the blade.
A curve cut is best performed by keeping the pattern
line in-line with the blade while turning the workpiece
before the radius of the curve is cut. The blade
should cut in the middle of the pattern line (saw kerf)
since wood cutting band saw blades are thin.
NOTE: When cutting tight curves in metal feed the
workpiece at a slow rate. The blade may bind causing
the circuit protector to automatically shut off the
machine.
p_il #,. Saw '
Two..,,..
.....
Pattern Line
Blade
RIGHT - Planning ahead by turning workpiece for
cutting a curve.
Workpiece
Pattern Line
Blade
WRONG - Not planning ahead for cutting a curve
could bind or twist blade if workpiece is forced.
NOTE: Blade guard is raised and right hand removed
for clarity of picture only.
I ARNING: To avoid blade contact, adjust the]
upper guide assembly to just clear the work-
piece.
,
.
Use both hands while feeding the work into the
blade. Hold the workpiece firmly against the table.
Use gentle pressure. Do not force the work, but
allow the blade to cut.
The smallest diameter circle that can be cut out is
determined by the width of the blade. A 1/4" wide
blade will cut a minimum diameter of approximate-
ly 1-1/2". A 1/8" wide blade will cut a minimum
diameter of approximately 1/2".
Relief cuts are made when an intricate curve (too
small a radius for the blade) is to be cut. A relief cut is
made by cutting through the scrap section of the
workpiece up to the curved pattern line, then carefully
Workpiece
Blade
Pattern Line
Relief Cuts
back blade out. Several relief cuts should be made
for intricate curves, then follow pattern line as sec-
tions are cut off of curve "relieving" blade pressure.
NOTE: Blade guard is raised and right hand removed
for clarity of picture only.
maintenance
WARNING: For your own safety, Push knob
"OFF", lock-out switch and remove plug from
power outlet before maintaining your band saw.
TIRES
Pitch and sawdust that accumulates on the tires
should be removed with a stiff brush or scraped off
with a piece of wood. Do not use a sharp knife or any
kind of solvent.
GENERAL
Keep your Band Saw clean.
Remove sawdust from the inside frequerrrly.
Do not allow pitch to accumulate on the table, blade
guides, or thrust bearings. Clean them with
Craftsman Gum and Pitch Remover.
Apply a thin coat of automobile-type wax to the table
top so the wood slides easily while cutting. Also apply
wax to the inside surfaces of the trunnion.
18