Thread: Band saw for cutting aluminum
View Single Post
  #9   Spotlight this post!  
Unread 28-09-2007, 13:35
lbarger's Avatar
lbarger lbarger is offline
Senior LRI NC District
AKA: Lee Barger
FRC #0587 (The Hedgehogs)
Team Role: Mentor
  
Join Date: Dec 2005
Rookie Year: 2001
Location: Hillsborough, NC
Posts: 81
lbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud oflbarger has much to be proud of
Re: Band saw for cutting aluminum
I bought the small Jet horizontal/vertical metal cutting band saw for my own uses as well as helping my team. I have been happy with it. Two minor problems to report: 1) The table for use in the vertical orientation was bent in shipping and had to be hammered out, 2) Does not always make perfectly square cuts*.

If possible, lay eyes/hands on each model before choosing. Pay attention to the bearings that hold the blade straight and how the material is clamped. You want roller bearings, not bushings or pads for most accurate cutting. See how close to the blade you can clamp a piece as this will limit the size of some cuts.

Also, check on price and availability of replacement metal blades. They only break when you are using the saw so ALWAYS have spares on hand.

*I've been told a trick, but have yet to test it regarding straight cuts on a band saw. Many blades are stamped and as such have a lip on the trailing edge of the blade. Holding a wet stone to the trailing edges (before cutting) in theory will break this edge and provide straighter cuts.

Regards,
Lee
Reply With Quote