Grizzly bandsaw GO555

Joined
Nov 25, 2002
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72
Hi there. Does anyone have the Grizzly GO555 14" bandsaw? I just received one, and am unsure what type of blade and how many teeth it should have. The primary purpose of this saw will be to resaw blocks of ironwood, maple, and other woods etc., into scales. Also, could this setup be used to cut micarta, or would I be better served using the Harbor Freight metal bandsaw? Thanks in advance for any responses I may receive!

Bill
 
I would use the widest blade you can get, to keep deflection to a minimum. I think those saws can take up to a 3/4" blade.
As for teeth, I just use a 6TPI. The 3/4" will work fine, unless you plan on cutting curves, then a 3/8" is better.
I generally use a 1/2" on mine, but will get a 3/4" soon, as I have a lot of wood to resaw.

On the Ironwood, you might be better served by using a metal cutting bandsaw for it(I do). Ditto, for the Micarta. Although a wood cutting BS works fine, it will produce a ton of toxic gasses, IE;phenol, and formaldehyde, because of the heat generated by the higher speed.

Micarta is a phenolic resin product, same for Pakkawood, Dymondwood etc.

Edited to add; check on one of the woodworkers supply sites, they list all the bandsaw blades they supply, and what is best for what.
http://www.pennstateind.com/

http://shop.woodcraft.com/Woodcraft/assets/html/homepage.asp
 
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