Looking for a Metal
Cutting Bandsaw?
Here are the basics of
what to look for.
It’s accepted that within the General Manufacturing industry
there will come a point when you will need some sort of metal cutting
machinery whether that be a circular saw, vertical band saw or horizontal band saw.
The variety of saws available on the market today are vast and
finding the exact one that meets your needs can be difficult, so we’ve put
together this article on band saws to help you in your selection. A guide on circular
saws will follow at a later date.
Why do you need a Bandsaw
Well, if you are cutting high quantities or large stock size
of metal, then both speed and accuracy is paramount, and these two reasons
alone are well worth the investment. Of course, it goes without saying that if
you work within a fabrication environment then investing in a reliable industrial
saw is crucial to the profit of your business going forward.
Horizontal or Vertical band saws?
Horizontal band saw machines are invaluable for accuracy,
ease and speed when cutting stock material but can take up a much larger
footprint than a vertical band saw. It all depends on what you are wanting the
machine to do. For curved or intricate work then a vertical option should be
your choice whereas a horizontal saw is ideal for cutting large amounts of
stock material.
Prices vary greatly between band saws depending on
specification and what you are expecting the machine to achieve for you. It
might be wise to consider asking yourself why you need a band saw and listing
the pro’s and cons of the options available, making note of the following:
·
Volume of
Work – this will determine the need for a band saw. If you are intending to
cut small amounts, is there a need to dig deep and buy one? If, on the other
hand volumes are high or material is difficult to cut then the next questions
to consider is. ‘what brand, which model and what capacity?
·
Budget
– will determine specification, i.e. how large and powerful a machine you will
be able to purchase and whether it will be second hand or brand new. It’s
always good to factor in consumable costs such as blades, lubricant and
servicing/repair costs and possible downtime.
·
Workshop
Space – always a significant factor to consider – where am I going to put
it and will it fit in the space? It might be an idea to consider purchasing the
largest machine you can to fit within the space as there might be a time when
you will need to cut something bigger.
·
Size of
the Job – Anticipate the biggest size of job and then add some more
capacity. You never know if there will come a time when the extra capacity will
come in handy.
·
Type of
Work – will determine your need for either a horizontal or vertical.
Horizontal if you are cutting stock material straight, horizontal mitre saws
can cut at angles and vertical band saws are used for curved or intricate work
generally.
·
Ease of
Use – Manual machines tend to require the operator to be on hand at all
times to oversee operations, whereas automatic machines with hydraulic down feeds
and cut-off switches enable the operator to get on with other tasks before
coming back to the band saw. Then you have industry 4.0 enabled machinery –
controllable from internet connected devices.
Key Features to Look For
Depending on what you want the machine to achieve for you
and what size and spec you’re after will determine some of the features you
need to look out for:
·
Rigid
Construction – Solid steel and cast-iron construction are very important factors
in which type of machine you choose. Why? Because how heavy and rigid the machine
determines how accurate it will be when cutting. Weight and size give the
machine vibration dampening qualities that aid in the accuracy of the cut.
·
Variable
Speed – variable speed options are always preferable over belt driven 3-4
speed types and will give you a greater flexibility when cutting various
materials. In addition you will have the overall benefit of your blades lasting
much longer.
·
Mitre /
Dual Mitre Cutting – This feature is what makes band saws stand out from
your powered hacksaws. Within the fabrication industry there can be times when
extensive angle cutting is needed so having a band saw that can mitre cut is
essential. Having a Dual Mitre option on your band saw is even more
advantageous as cuts on non-symmetrical materials can easily be made.
Desirable But Not Essential Features to Consider
·
Swivel
Head or Swivel Vice – If you are looking for accuracy in your cuts then
choosing a machine with a swivel head is a much better option than one with a
swivel vice
·
Coolant
System – It’s always best to consider a machine with this option as it does
prove to be vital in prolonging the life of your blade. However if you have a
smaller machine it’s always advisable to have coolant to spray on the job every
so often.
·
Hydraulic
Down feed – A consistent blade pressure is maintained during the automatic
functioning of the machine when this feature is included – greatly preferred
over the basic spring systems found on smaller machines.
Blades & Consumables
Blades - Making
the right decision as to what band saw machine to purchase is important but so
too is your choice of blades – a factor that sometimes is overlooked. Most
stock metal cutting blades will come with a standard tooth count (6, 10, 14
tpi) These blades will perform adequately but it’s best to purchase variable
pitch teeth blades (6-10tpi / 10-14tpi) which allow the blade to cut through
almost any material reducing the heat build-up whilst doing so
Roller Tables –
When cutting stock material, a roller table provides a stable structure that
supports the weight of the material whilst it’s being fed into the machine.
Coolant – If your
machine doesn’t have a coolant system fitted its always advisable to ensure
that you spray coolant onto the material to aid in the cutting process and
avoid heat build-up allowing for a more accurate cut and to preserve the life
of your blade.Conclusion
Many things need to be considered when making a band saw purchase but once you have considered all the options available to you, you will end up with a machine that will perform accurately time and time again (with the correct maintenance).Brands To Consider
Here at Addison Saws we have a large selection of world
renowned band saws both vertical and horizontal covering a huge range of
applications including IMET, KESMAK, ADDISON JUBILEE and EVERISING. Whatever
your application we have a band saw to fit.
Blades & Consumables
In addition we have a large selection of blades and
lubricants that will ensure your band saw will perform at its best.
Advice & Support
We have dedicated sales and support staff ready to advise on
which machine is right for you, so please contact us on 01384 264 950
with your questions.
To view the full range of machinery we have to offer, visit www.addisonsaws.co.uk.
