5.3 Others
VARIABLES WHICH AFFECT BANDSAW BLADE LIFE
1 . The Operator - The operator is the most important variable at any test. He can make or break any
test and often has a great deal of influence over whose bandsaw blades are used. He can also be a
good source of information on what is going on, competitive situations, relationships with
manufacturers or distributors, etc. Don't ignore the operator.
2 . Number of Teeth in the Band - There should always be a minimum of three teeth in the work at all
times to avoid straddling. Nine to twelve is the optimum number and anything over 24 is probably too
high (although sometimes unavoidable).
3 . Tooth Style - Standard, skip, sabre , Si -Pitch or XL. The best tooth style for the material being cut
should be used.
4 . Tooth Set - Regular, Wavy, E.T.S., Si - Pitch, Maxi -Sharp. The proper band with the proper set
for the material being cut should be used.
5 . Band Tension - Band tension, as measured by Simonds Patented Simometer, is important to the
efficient running of a bandsaw blade. Too little tension can cause a blade to "wander" in the cut
while too much can actually pull the band apart.
6 . Band Speed - Start with Simonde speed and feed slide chart. Too high a speed can cause too much
heat lessening the life of the band. Too low a speed could cause overfeeding. Always reduce the speed
when cutting dry.
7 . Break - in Procedure - The normal feed rate should be reduced to about 1/2 for the first 50 square
inches or so to hone in the blade. A good example is that of a sharp pencil. You must not bear down
hard on it right away or you risk breaking the point. The same holds true for a bandsaw tooth.
8. Feed Rate - Set the feed rate by square inches per minute according to simonds speed and feed slide
chart. Watch your chips and adjust accordingly as both overfeeding and underfeeding cut bandsaw life.
9. Band Quality - Carbon steel blades vs. High Speed Blades, M-2 vs. M42, etc. All affect the life you will
get from the band. Once again choose the proper type band for the job. There are also differences in
quality among manufacturers.
Simonds has some of the highest quality standards in the world.
10. Machine Type - Different makes and models with varying horsepower available can affect life.
A well made heavy duty machine can greatly enhance band life.
11. Wheels - The Wheels carry the band and it is very important that they be properly aligned and that
the bearings be in good shape. Misaligned wheels and loose bearings can cause undue stresses on
the band and reduce fatigue life. Flanges should also be checked and if extremely worn, the wheel
should be replaced. Worn flanges are usually a sign of misalignment or bad bearings.
5 - 3
