How to tell when your bandsaw blade is nearing the end of its life?
Yes, it’s a pain when all you really want to do is get the job done; time has value, but then again so do good results, and a job well done. If your bandsaw blade is on its last legs, then it is unlikely to be performing at its best, and if it that is the case then neither are you.
Here are a few of the most common signs that your bandsaw blade is due to be replaced, if you notice one or more of them, don’t put it off, replace your blade.
Teeth Are Starting to Strip After a Long Period of Use
Slower cutting, a need for increased feed pressure or noticeable slowdown of feed rate can all mean that your bandsaw blade’s teeth are starting to strip. This issue also generally causes the blade to heat up significantly more than if its teeth were in good condition, and that points to one thing; it is definitely time for a change of blade before the excess heat and added stress cause other issues.
The Blade Becoming Noisy And Squeaky
If you have used your bandsaw for any significant amount of time, you’ll be familiar with its sound, its feel and the speed at which it does the jobs you need. If you start to notice it getting louder or squeaking, or cutting slower than it used to, that’s a sign that it might be time to think about changing your blade before it lets you down.
The Blade Doesn’t Move Consistently Whilst Cutting
This issue can combine with other unusual things you might notice whilst using your bandsaw, such as odd burning smells, or a greater degree of burn marks on wood and timber that didn’t burn before. It may be that a fatigued blade is not turning on its wheels as well as it used to, and a blade that is old and fatigued will not thank you for more tension, it might have had its day.
Hairline cracks appearing showing signs of stress and over use A dull blade will heat up much more than a blade in good condition, and typically with older and well used blades one problem can quickly lead to several more in a very short space of time. One of those problems is hairline cracks. If you notice hairline cracks in your bandsaw blade when visually inspecting it, bear in mind there are those who would not even consider using it, and with good reason! Time to seriously consider changing it ASAP.
Tips To Make Your Bandsaw Blade Last Longer
Bandsaw blades, sadly don’t last forever, and sooner or later you will undoubtedly need to purchase and fit a new blade. However there is a lot you can do to prolong the life of your humble bandsaw blade, regardless of the machine you use, the materials you are cutting and the type of blade itself. Much of it is good housekeeping and diligence, while some of it is good old common sense.
Follow these five simple tips to ensure you and your bandsaw blade enjoy the longest and most productive relationship possible:
Ensure That The Tension is Correct
Different blades have different optimal tension settings and there are as many different tricks and tips for getting the tension right as there are models of bandsaw. As long as the blade is not slipping on the wheels when cutting, and the cut is straight then the tension may be satisfactory. If you notice a bow in the stock being worked on, especially when cutting thicker stock, then more tension may need to be added. The majority of machines have a tension guide which, although not always accurate, can offer a useful baseline. Although there is no substitute for experience and getting to know your machine, its sounds and performance will generally tell you a lot.
Ensure That The Tooth Pitch is Correct For The Cutting Application
The tooth pitch of your blade must be suitable for the job in hand, if it isn’t then the quality of the cut can (and generally will) be adversely affected, and the lifespan of your blade drastically reduced. Whether you are cutting tube, solid, flat, I-beams you need the correct tooth pitch for these applications.
Always Make Sure That The Swarf is Cleaned Off The Blade After Cutting
In short, if you look after your equipment, then generally it will look after you and this is where good housekeeping and a little common sense pays dividends. Getting rid of swarf after every cut will prolong your bandsaw blade’s life, as well as the life of the bandsaw itself.
Make Mure That Your Coolant’s Concentration is Correct
A concentration that’s too low can lead to severe problems such as bacteria growth, corrosion and poor surface finish, all of which are bad news for the life of your hardworking bandsaw blade. Ensuring your coolant is mixed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and checked regularly is important.
Ensure The Blade Guides And Carbide Tips Are Clean And Set Correctly
With time and use, especially doing curved work, metal fatigue is inevitable which can lead to your blade snapping. The best way to mitigate this risk is by providing maximum support to the blade. Use the blade guides as close to the blade as possible and near to the work itself and ensure any swarf is cleaned off the tips after every use.