Problem
Blades dull earlier than expected when cutting materials.
Cause
The cutting speed or feed rathe may be incorrect, you may be using the wrong blade, or you may need to make adjustments to the blade.
|
You May Need To… |
Probability |
How-To Steps |
Need More? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Clean the bandsaw. |
High |
Examine the bandsaw for chip build-up between the blade and it's wheels. If necessary, clean it of chips. |
For information, see “ Machine Maintenance”. |
|
Adjust the feed rate. |
High |
Verify that the feed rate isn’t too high: lower the feed rate, and then do a test cut. Examine the behavior of the machine as it cuts. |
For information, see “ Change the Feed Rate”. |
|
Adjust the cutting speed. |
High |
Verify that the cutting speed isn’t too high: lower the cutting speed, and then do a test cut. Examine the behavior of the machine as it cuts. |
For information, see “ Change the Speed”. |
|
Examine the blade, material, and size of cut. |
High |
Verify that the blade’s TPI isn’t too fine or too course for the size and type of material being cut. If not, you may need to choose a new blade. Verify that the blade isn’t breaking too frequently. |
For information, see “ Choose a Blade” and “ Blades Break Too Frequently”. |
|
Follow the blade break-in procedure. |
High |
To maximize blade life, you must follow the procedure to break in the blade. |
For information, see “ Break in the Blade”. |
|
Replace the blade. |
Low |
Examine the blade for twists or kinks. If there are any, replace the blade. |
For information, see “ Change a Blade”. |
|
Adjust the position of the blade on the wheels. |
Low |
Verify that the blade is correctly positioned on the wheels: open the blade cover and examine the blade. If necessary, adjust the tracking. |
For information, see “ Mechanical Adjustments”. |