Using a Band Saw Blade Steel Bar for Metal Fabrication
A band saw blade steel bar provides the support needed to ensure a precise, accurate cut and long blade life. To achieve these results, the bandsaw should be set up properly to avoid crooked cuts and vibration.
Band speed must be matched to the material; too fast and the blade overheats, softens, and dulls quickly. Too slow and the blade load increases, making spinning, tooth stripping, and work hardening more likely.
Steel
Cutting structural shapes and bundles is a challenge for any metal fabrication shop. Using a band saw for these cuts increases blade life and improves cut quality. But if you’re not careful, you can overwork a metal band saw and damage it. To prevent this, listen for unhealthy sounds coming from your saw: squealing or grinding-type noises are often a sign of a failing blade. If you hear these sounds, contact a metal fabrication expert to discuss your cutting needs and the best options for you.
There are several factors that affect the performance of a band saw blade, including its width, length, tooth pitch, gullet size, rake angle and material. Effective cutting of steel, stainless, nickel and titanium alloys requires a specialized blade. Choosing the right blade for your job helps you get the best possible results while minimizing maintenance costs.
The best choice for your material is determined by its physical properties: hardness, strength, resistance to corrosion, ductility and ease of machining. Softer metals are easier to cut, but they have a lower strength and durability than harder ones. A softer metal blade with a smaller teeth size will produce smoother, cleaner cuts than a larger blade with a coarser, sturdier tooth design.
Another key factor is the way the blade is maintained and used. A regular cleaning of the blade removes pitch, debris and contaminants Painted tinplate and promotes a smooth cut surface. A lubricant specially designed for band saws reduces friction and increases blade life. The lubricant should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The blade should also be inspected periodically for signs of wear or cracks. A good band saw blade service provider offers both blades and service, such as blade sharpening, to help you keep your cutting operation running smoothly.
Bi-metal
When cutting metal, there are a number of factors that impact quality and speed of cut. Among them are the type of blade, material compatibility, tooth pitch and blade width. A knowledgeable blade manufacturer will be able to provide you with a blade that is specifically designed for your materials and will give you the best results.
For example, if you are cutting aluminum or other non-ferrous materials, a bi-metal band saw blade is a good option. These are hard-wearing and have a long lifespan. They also work well for cutting hard and tough materials, such as tool steel and high-alloy steels.
Bi-metal blades can be used to cut round bars, square bars, tubing, bundles and special profiles. Compared to standard bandsaw blades, these are much more versatile as they are able to cut a Tinplate steel plate manufacturer wide range of materials. In addition, they are able to handle high impact cuts, such as those made when cutting bundles of metal shapes.
Another benefit of a metal cutting bandsaw is that they can run at higher speeds than standard blades. This can result in faster cuts and reduce production times. However, it is important to remember that higher feed rates tend to lower the lifespan of the blade. To make sure you get the most out of your metal cutting blades, always use proper feeding techniques and a lubricant.
A final benefit of metal cutting bandsaw blades is their heat resistance and durability. The tungsten alloy that makes up these blades can withstand temperatures that would melt most other materials. It is also important to lubricate and cool the blade effectively while cutting hard and tough materials, as this will extend its life.
When you receive a new metal cutting bandsaw blade, it is vital to break it in before using it. Failure to do so can cause microscopic damage to the tooth tips, resulting in reduced blade longevity. To break a blade in, start by slowing down the RPM and feed rate by 50% for the first 20 to 30 minutes of cutting. This will allow the blade to acclimate to the pressures of cutting and ensure that it is working properly.
Aluminum
Using an aluminum band saw blade for metal fabrication can provide a cost-effective way to cut the material. This type of blade has a higher cutting speed than other types of blades, which increases productivity. It also has a higher strength-to-weight ratio, which can help reduce the risk of injury to operators.
Whether your shop cuts copper, brass, stainless steel or another type of metal, the right band saw blade can ensure that the job gets done quickly and efficiently. However, to get the most out of your saw and keep it running smoothly, you must take the time to choose a blade that fits your needs and maintain the blade properly.
The most popular blade in fabrication shops is bi-metal, which offers a combination of hardness and flexibility that is ideal for metal cutting. It can withstand the impacts of cutting bundles and shapes as well as solid materials. It can even cut materials with a high Rockwell hardness.
For metals that require a higher degree of precision, a carbide-tipped blade can be an excellent choice. It is constructed with pocketed teeth that are formed into a backing material, with carbide welded into the pockets and ground to shape. Depending on the material, this type of band saw blade can deliver a smoother and cleaner cut than regular bi-metal blades.
To avoid a crooked cut, place the metal on the table in the working position and either wrap it with masking tape or tie it to string around where you want the blade to go. Then use the hydraulic arm capability on the machine to lower it into the workpiece. The blade can then be moved back and forth along the length of the tubing to make the required cut.
