Finding You The Best Metal Band Saw For Your Needs

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Steps On Using A Metal Band Saw

Sunday, November 29th, 2009

The Metal Band Saw – The Perfect Tool for Any Handyman or Metalworker

A Bandsaw for the Occasional Handyman

If you only need a band saw once in a while, then probably an 8 inch metal band saw will fit your particular needs.  This type of band saw is lightweight and is made for metal crafting that is done occasionally. If you’re relying on a saw to assist you with basic cutting, then this is the type of band saw you want to pick. Make sure that your blade guides are made so they’re fully adjustable and you’ll be doing so much cutting, you’ll want to make an upgrade.

The 14-inch Band Saw

If you’re in the market for a little bigger size among wood or metal cutting band saws, then you might want to choose a 14-inch saw model. You’ll probably see a greater variety of models in this size of band saw than any other. The 14-inch saw, when used for woodworking or metal cutting, does an excellent job of making curve cuts as well as producing cuts for more intricate designs.

Note the Construction and Durability of the Saw

When considering any horizontal or vertical metal cutting band saw, you’ll also want to look at the construction. Make a note of the durability of the saw, the amount of possible repairs as well as the ease of obtaining parts for the saw you have in mind. It’s best, then, to choose a band saw whose replacement parts are readily available. You don’t want to select a saw that becomes discontinued, only to find out that you can’t locate parts when it needs repair. If you happen to pick a larger band saw, then, in most cases, you’ll also be obtaining a cast iron table with your band saw purchase. If you do buy a band saw with this kind of table, then make sure that the table also comes with brackets and supports to allow for any additional weight.

Larger Band Saws for the Professional Woodworker or Metalworker

If you work as a professional woodworker or metalworker, then, no doubt, you’ll be the most interested in buying band saws that are sized 17 inches, 19 inches, 21 inches or 24 inches. Most commercial woodworkers or metal cutters like to use the 17-inch saw because it can be purchased at a more reasonable price. All large band saws are good pieces of equipment to use for resawing as well as cutting curves into metal and wood materials. If you’re really serious about woodworking or metal cutting, the larger models are definitely the best band saws to use. These saws come with lots of added features that the smaller saws don’t feature. For example, saws come with tension release levers and a table tilt option too.

Keep the Future in Mind

To make an informed purchasing decision, think about your cutting needs now and for the future. Therefore, you’re not necessarily saving money by initially buying a smaller machine when you know and anticipate you’ll be expanding your woodworking or metal cutting operation.

Use the above information to assess your needs and determine the best approach for obtaining a band saw that is sturdy and reliable and falls within your budget.

What Exactly Is A Metal Band Saw?

Sunday, November 29th, 2009

The Metal Band Saw – Making Safety Key

Metal Band Saw Blades

Using a metal band saw to cut metal is a whole different proposition than using a band saw for wood cutting purposes. For one thing, the metal band saw blade has smaller teeth than its wood blade counterpart. A wood band saw blade has larger teeth that are spaced out further apart. Also, when you use a band saw to cut metal, you need a vice or clamp to hold the metal in place. If you don’t have any kind of vice or support, you shouldn’t even think about using this kind of machinery. Not only will you be putting your own safety in jeopardy but you’ll be risking the safety of others. A metal band saw, given that it cuts metal at a high rate of speed, throws out a lot of sharp, metal debris. Therefore, safety must be made a priority whenever you’re using this kind of machinery.

Wear Goggles

For one thing, you should always wear goggles or the proper safety glasses before you operate the machine. As stated, you can get metal in your eyes if you don’t wear the appropriate eyewear. In addition, make sure you have hearing protection available as well. Not only does the machine produce a great deal of dust, whether you’re cutting wood or metal, it also can be quite noisy. Therefore, it’s imperative that you protect your hearing and wear earplugs or similar kinds of protection.

Preventative Measures

It’s best to implement certain measures then before you begin any project. Make certain you understand everything you read in the owner’s manual that comes with your metal cutting band saw machine. Inspect the saw for any type of damage. You should also make the proper adjustments and examine the guides, bearings and electrical plug and cord. If you find any problems, don’t use your band saw until they have been fixed. It’s also beneficial to affix a red “Do Not Use” tag on the saw when the replacement of parts or repairs are being made.

Safety Measures

When operating your band saw, wear, as stated, the proper safety gear. In addition to the appropriate eyewear and ear protection, you’ll also want to wear a dust mask. Don’t wear any loose sleeves or jewelry around the equipment. Also, don’t start a band saw with your cutting piece next to or touching the blade. Keep your fingers at least a couple inches from the blade of the saw too. Because approximately 90% of band saw accidents result in finger and hand injuries, this is a vital piece of information to know. In addition, make sure you fully shut off the band saw and wait for the blade to completely stop before cleaning the saw. Unplug the electricity or the cord before working on the machine and making adjustments. Cleaning the band saw and the surrounding area after you’re done with your project is also is helpful in making the environment more safe and secure.

Whether you are using a horizontal or vertical band saw made for cutting metal or wood, make safety key to its operation.