VerticalBandsaw
From Makerpedia
Overview
A vertical bandsaw features a continuous, vertically-oriented blade running over wheels, driven by a motor, and stabilized by guides above and below a flat, often tiltable, work table. This design enables precise contour and straight cuts through various materials like wood, metal, and plastic by changing the blade, and allows for resawing lumber. Its controlled cutting action and material versatility make it a valuable tool for intricate shaping and general cutting tasks in woodworking, metalworking, and other fabrication applications.
Safety Checklist
Before Operation
- Ensure machine is free of debris.
During Operation
- Always stay within reach of power controls.
After Operation
- Clean up
Training
Shop Safety Level 1 is required to vertical bandsaws. Before registering for this course, watch the instructional video below and complete this quiz.
Available Equipment
Terminology
- Blade: The toothed metal strip that performs the cutting action, forming a continuous loop.
- Blade Guides: Components above and below the work table that stabilize the blade, preventing it from twisting or wandering.
- Resawing: The process of cutting a thick piece of lumber into thinner pieces.
- Contour Cutting: Cutting intricate shapes and curves along a marked line.
- Work Table: The flat surface that supports the workpiece during cutting. Can be fixed, or adjustable, to make angled cuts.
- Throat Depth: The distance from the blade to the back of the saw frame, indicating the maximum width of material that can be cut.
- Blade Tension: The amount of force applied to the blade to keep it taut and straight.
- Blade Tracking: The alignment of the blade on the wheels, ensuring it runs smoothly and accurately.
- Tensioning Wheel: The wheel typically located above the work table that adjusts vertically to tension the blade.
- Drive Wheel: The wheel located below the work table that also drives the blade.
- Kerf: The width of the cut made by the blade.
- Variable Speed: A feature that allows the user to adjust the blade speed for different materials.
- Rip Fence: A guide that runs parallel to the blade, used for making straight, consistent cuts.
