14" bandsaw question

wilhurley

wilhurley

Joined
May 9, 2004
Messages
252
I already have a plain metal cutting bandsaw the ones with the 64 1/2 blades, but I was at an auction and picket up a 14" bandsaw, it is 3 speed, I think I can slow it up enough to cut metal, My question is I think it takes 93 1/2 blades, what sizes do you guys recommend. I'm gonna get a bi-metal blade. But 1/4" wide, or 3/8 or 1/2. and how many teeth. or whatever comments you have, or If I shoud even attept to cut metal with it? It is pretty solid 1hp mortor.
 
My 14" specs says it takes a 92.5 inch blade. I typically by 93" blades because of availability. I buy Bi-metal blades at 1/2 or 3/4 inch wide. The wider the blade, the better they cut straight. The narrow blades like 3/8 and under are better for cutting around curves like in the profile of a knife. 1/2 inch is a pretty good combination of tracking well for really straight cuts and flexable enough to cut some radii.

You should have a minimum of 3 teeth in contact with the material at all times. So for 1/8 inch stock you would need 24 teeth per inch. I just bought a 18 teeth per inch and she works good on annealed 1/8 1095. Alot better than my 10-14 varible did.

For a reference go to www.mcmaster.com and do a search for "bandsaw blade" The first page that comes up has a bunch of good info on it about blade types, tooth types, and recommend blades for material, etc.....Hope that helps.
 
:) Will if your saw is set up for wood it will most likely be to fast for metal. I think I still have an old gear reduction motor around somewhere. Lenox makes really good bi-metal blades. You can order them from carbide.com in any size you need.
 
On my 3 speed 14" band saw I have increased the speed a little as on high it was a little slow for wood, I use 1/2" blades wood cutting 6 teeth to the inch. always by the Best blade you can. Now I will get some flak for this, I cut brass, nickle silver and stainless steel for fittings on this set up I just don't go vary fast. Blade life is still good. Gib
 
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