Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What speed bandsaw blade for wood?
A common speed for bandsaw blades used for cutting wood is around one thousand feet per minute. While wood can be cut at higher speeds, it is generally safer to keep the speed slower for wood cutting purposes.
2. How many teeth should my bandsaw blade have?
The number of teeth on a bandsaw blade depends on the material being cut. For wood and soft materials, aim for 3 to 6 teeth in the workpiece. For metals and harder materials, aim for 6 to 24 teeth in the workpiece. The number of teeth determines the cutting efficiency and performance.
3. How do I choose the right bandsaw blade?
When choosing a bandsaw blade, consider the cuts you will be making. For cutting curves, choose the widest blade possible, as the width determines the smallest radius that can be cut. Smaller width blades are suitable for smaller radius cuts, while larger width blades are better for resawing or near straight line cuts.
4. What are the three main types of bandsaw blades?
The three main types of bandsaw blades are Bi-Metal, Carbon Steel, and Carbide. Each type has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different cutting applications.
5. What is the best speed to cut wood?
The recommended tooth speed for cutting hardwood depends on the species and whether it is green or dry. For ripping cuts, a tooth speed of 50-70 m/s is recommended. For cross-cutting and docking hardwood, the optimum tooth speed is around 45-55 m/s.
6. What is the 4 inch rule for bandsaw?
The 4-inch rule for bandsaw safety recommends using a push stick for cuts that would bring your hands within 4 inches of the blade. It is important to cut only as fast as the blade can properly remove material and to keep fingers and hands from passing through the plane in which the saw blade is.
7. How many teeth per inch to cut wood?
The number of teeth per inch (TPI) on a bandsaw blade depends on the material being cut. For cutting wood or other soft materials, a blade with a TPI of 6 up to 20 is suitable.
8. Is 24 TPI better than 32 TPI?
The choice between a 24-teeth per inch (TPI) blade and a 32-TPI blade depends on the cutting job. For medium-duty cutting like thin wall electrical conduit, a 24-TPI blade would be better. For cutting light metals like aluminum, a higher TPI blade, such as 32-TPI, would provide a smoother cut.
9. What is the most useful bandsaw blade size?
A 3/8-inch, 6-teeth per inch (TPI), hook-tooth, high-carbon-steel bandsaw blade is considered a versatile all-purpose blade. It has enough width to handle most rip cuts in material up to 2 inches thick without deflecting and is narrow enough to cut mild curves. It is also suitable for quick crosscuts.
