Have you ever found yourself frustrated by the short lifespan of your saw Carbide tipped saw blades (Carbide)? If you're working with metal, you know it can be tough on your tools, and constantly replacing blades can be both time-consuming and expensive. But don't worry - there are ways to maximize the life of your blades and get more use out of them. In this blog post, we're going to delve into the three key factors that can help you achieve just that. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this information is essential for anyone who wants to get the most out of their metal-cutting equipment. If you want to better parts and MORE money, keep reading!

Key Factor #1 - Material

When it comes to maximizing blade life, the type of material you're cutting is a critical factor. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Is your material straight and even? Any irregularities can lead to blade wear and tear.
  • Are you cutting the first waste material in short or long lengths? Short lengths can cause the material to move and chip the blade's teeth.
  • What is the “hardness” of your material? Cutting hard materials (iconel, stainless, titanium, tool steel, etc.) can greatly reduce the life of a blade.

Key Factor #2 - Machine

Now that we've covered the material being cut, let's move on to the machine itself. The band saw machine plays a crucial role in maximizing the life of your Carbide blade, and there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, it's important to make sure that you're using the correct machine for your Carbide blade. Machines designed for HSS blades will not work the same way and could damage the Carbide blade. You must also make sure the machine is in good working condition with periodic inspection and adjustments being made.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  • What size blade does your machine require?
  • Check that the band brush is working properly and in contact with the blade. Make sure the chips from the cut are not coming around with the blade back into the cut.
  • Make sure the cutting fluid is flowing properly over the blade and within the cut channel.
  • Is the vice clamp worn out? If so, look at either repairing or replacing.
  • Is the clamping pressure high enough to adequately hold the part in place during the cutting operation?
  • Are the saw guide inserts adjusted properly and aren’t worn? Check your machine’s operations manual for the proper gap between the blade and the insert.
  • Is the drive mechanism working with little to no noticeable vibration or “wobble”?

These may seem like small details, but paying attention to them can make all the difference in extending the life of your saw blade.

Key Factor #3 - Blade

Now let's talk about the blade itself - after all, it's the most essential part of the cutting process. Here are some things to keep in mind to make sure your blade is in good condition:

  • It is crucial to make sure that the blade you're using is appropriate for the material you're cutting. Consult with your band sawing expert at DoALL to properly size the blade, tooth geometry and number of teeth per inch to the material you intend to cut.
  • The finish on the cut part can be a concern. If this is a concern for you and your team, Carbide is a great choice and tends to leave a better finish than High Speed Steel blades.
  • Check the blade teeth for any signs of chipping. Any damage to the teeth can significantly reduce the lifespan of the blade and the finish on the cut part.
  • Understanding the amount of material you will want to cut in any given time period is important. Consult with your DoALL band sawing expert to properly select the correct blade based on your desired productivity.

By keeping these factors in mind and taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure that your saw blade lasts as long as possible.

Maximizing the life of your saw blades is crucial for efficient and cost-effective metal cutting. By keeping in mind the 3 key factors - material, machine, and blade - you can ensure that your blades are performing at their best. And when it comes to the best in metal cutting saws and blades, DoALL Sawing Products is the name to trust. Our unparalleled commitment to quality and customer service has established us as a leader in the industry. With a wide range of saws and blades designed to tackle various metal cutting tasks, you can be confident that DoALL has the perfect solution for your needs. So why settle for anything less than the best? Contact a DoALL Sawing Products Regional Manager today and take your metal cutting to the next level.