THE VERTICAL BANDSAW
The Bandsaw performs many sawing operations. The saw itself is a flexible band of steel with teeth cut along one edge. It can be used for straight sawing as well as for cutting curves. The size of the saw is measured by the diameter of the wheels around which the band runs. In schools the wheels are usually from 14 to 30 inches. A Bandsaw can cut a range of materials, from wood to plastic to some metals, however each use requires a special blade. It is usual for a Bandsaw in a workshop to be dedicated to working with one material only, such as wood.
Bandsaws are particularly suitable for cutting curves in flat material, but the minimum radius is determined by the width of the blade that is fitted. A blade with a width of 1/2 inch can cut a minimum diameter curve of 6 inches while a blade with a width of 1/4 inch might cut a curve with a diameter as low as 1 1/8 inches. Narrower blades cut tighter curves but are also easier to break.
The Bandsaw is also suitable for cutting timber both along and across the grain, though cuts across the grain are limited in length to the distance between the blade and the support column of the frame (the throat). Long lengths of timber are usually handled with the assistance of another person or by the placement of some sort of temporary table extension such as spaced rollers. It is also suited to the cutting of sheet material, limited once again by the distance across the throat.
Bandsaws are particularly suitable for cutting curves in flat material, but the minimum radius is determined by the width of the blade that is fitted. A blade with a width of 1/2 inch can cut a minimum diameter curve of 6 inches while a blade with a width of 1/4 inch might cut a curve with a diameter as low as 1 1/8 inches. Narrower blades cut tighter curves but are also easier to break.
The Bandsaw is also suitable for cutting timber both along and across the grain, though cuts across the grain are limited in length to the distance between the blade and the support column of the frame (the throat). Long lengths of timber are usually handled with the assistance of another person or by the placement of some sort of temporary table extension such as spaced rollers. It is also suited to the cutting of sheet material, limited once again by the distance across the throat.
MAIN PARTS OF THE VERTICAL BANDSAW
SAFETY PROCEDURES
- Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles).
- Use both hands and keep fingers at least 4” from the blade at all times.
- Keep upper guides less than 1/4" from the material being cut. Adjust the guides before turning the saw on.
- Plan your cuts carefully. Saw curves gradually. Sudden twists may cause the blade to bind or break. Use relief cuts when necessary.
- Ensure that the blade is running at full speed before starting a cut.
- Keep your hands beside or behind the blade. Never in line with the blade. Use a push stick on small pieces.
- If the blade breaks, immediately turn the power off and step back. Inform the teacher right away.
- Always make short cuts first. Avoid backing out of cuts with the power on. Backing out of a cut may cause the blade to come off of the drive wheels.
- Do not cut cylindrical stock without the use of a V block and clamp.
- Remove scrap pieces from the table only after the blade has stopped.
- Do not leave the band saw until the blade has stopped.
- Ensure the blade is tracking correctly and runs freely in the upper and lower guide rollers. Ensure the blade is under proper tension
- Hold stock firmly and flat on the table to prevent the stock from turning and drawing your fingers against the blade.
AT ALL TIMES – IF IN DOUBT, SEE YOUR INSTRUCTOR
VIDEO
|
|