Band saws are stationary

Stationary band saws: how to choose and use them

A band saw is a stationary or portable tool that uses a steel band with teeth closed in a ring as a cutting element. The main advantage of the device is the ability to make precise, smooth and continuous cuts, including curved and shaped lines. Band saws are used in wood and metalworking, construction, and manufacturing.

Unlike circular saws, band saws provide minimal material loss, less stress on the workpiece, and a cleaner cut. The circular saw is best suited for straight longitudinal cuts, while the bandsaw is best suited for curved, radius or complex curved cuts.

A jigsaw can also make curved cuts, but is inferior to a band saw in terms of accuracy and power. Reciprocating and miter saws are designed for other tasks, such as cutting in length and at an angle.

What is the difference between a wood and metal band saw? The first version of the tool operates at high speeds (up to 1000 m/min), has a large tooth and a wide blade width. It is suitable for cutting solid wood, plywood, MDF and even raw logs.

The metal band saw is slower (20 - 150 m/min), has a fine tooth and a reinforced blade. It is used for cutting steel, aluminium, pipes, and profiles.

How does a band saw work?

In this tool, the blade is driven by two pulleys, which are closed in a ring. The toothed belt continuously rotates at high speed, ensuring a smooth and precise cut. The main construction elements are an electric motor, guide pulleys, a work table (for stationary models) and a blade tensioning system.

The saw's movement ensures that the teeth are in constant contact with the workpiece along the entire length of the cut. This ensures that the material is cut continuously, without jerking, with minimal heat and low vibration. Depending on the model, you can make both straight and curved cuts and cut thicker workpieces. Let's take a look at how materials of different stiffness are cut:

• Wood - a wide blade with a large tooth and high feed rate is used for fast and clean cuts in both dry and wet wood.
• Metal - a blade with a fine tooth is used, work is carried out at a reduced feed rate and speed, and special coolants are used.
• Plastic - the choice of blade depends on the density of the material, but in general, universal blades with a moderate feed and medium tooth are used to avoid overheating and melting.

Let's compare the band saw with other types of tools. For example, a circular saw is faster for straight cuts, but limited in depth and radius capabilities.

A jigsaw is more affordable, but less accurate and slower for curved cuts. A saber saw is good for dismantling and rough cuts, but not suitable for precision work. And the band saw itself is versatile, precise, and economical in terms of material, but requires adjustment and more space.

What types of band saws are there?

You can buy band saws for wood, metal, and battery-powered ones. Let's look at the features of each type of tool.

Wood band saw: features and benefits

A band saw for wood provides precise, smooth cuts with minimal material loss. Its features include high speed, the ability to cut large workpieces and make curly cuts. This tool is widely used in furniture production, carpentry and tartan work.

Band saws for metal: what kind of work is it suitable for?

A metal band saw is suitable for precise, clean cuts in pipes, profiles, sheet metal and structural metal. When choosing this tool, it is important to consider power, cutting speed, blade type and the presence of a cooling system. A reliable fence and smooth start ensure safe and stable operation.

Cordless bandsaw: what is it suitable for?

The cordless band saw is a mobile and self-contained tool for cutting metal, plastic and wood in the field or in the assembly area. Its advantages include

• no wires
• compact size
• convenience when working at height or in confined spaces.

Modern models are equipped with brushless motors. The tool provides stable traction and precise cuts, is easy to transport and charges quickly.

How do I choose a band saw for different jobs?

When choosing a bandsaw, it is important to consider the motor power (from 300 to 2000 W, depending on the task), type of power supply (mains or battery), length and width of the band, and cutting height. A cooling system is important for working with metal, and a high cutting speed is important for wood. Pay attention to easy blade replacement, smooth start-up, and the presence of stops and protective guards.

Band saws in the VADA online store

The specialised online store VADA presents band saws for wood and metal work from the brands Makita, DeWalt, Metabo, Einhell, and others. There are models with different power, cutting depth and type of power supply.

Why is it worth contacting VADA to buy the presented tool? Among the advantages: original products, a mandatory warranty, convenient delivery and expert advice.