An out-of-balance bandsaw wheel, whether upper or lower, can cause you problems in a number of areas. Determine whether your bandsaw wheel is out of balance. George provides a simple, low-tech way to identify the heavy side of your bandsaw wheel.
Twice in one week I was asked how I balance band saw wheels so I thought I would write something up on the subject. Balancing of the wheels is important on all band saws but it is essential on larger and higher speed saws. I have found that balancing the wheels while on the saw and running at their normal speed is much preferable than balancing off the saw.
If it stops in the same place, the wheel is out of balance, heavy on the bottom. Add some wire or an adhesive wheel weight at 12 o’clock. When the wheel stops at different places with each spin, it’s as balanced as you will need.
If a direct drive off the motor, you dont know if it is the wheel or the motor, mine had a belt from the motor to the wheel so I could separate the 2 and figure out what was causing it. First, you need data – I use a dial indicator attached to the bandsaw table, with the indicator point touching something else – like a wall or a nearby table – that way, when the BS shakes, you have a measurement of how much Start by putting blue tape, or even a magic marker mark, on one point on the wheel – add a temporary weight, then start the saw and write down the range of movement of the DI, then move the weight to the next spot on the wheel and record the results. To check wheel balance I always just spun the wheel.
how to balance bandsaw wheels Related Question:
Why does my bandsaw wobble?
The blade on a saw left idle for long periods of time can leave an impression in the rubber tire which might cause erratic tracking. Purchase and install aftermarket replacement tires. (Search for “bandsaw tire” at woodcraft.com.) If you still see a back-and-forth motion, the culprit is probably the wheel itself.
Why is my bandsaw blade vibrating?
Band saw tires are another likely source of vibration. Tired tires, caked with pitch and dust or full of cracks and missing chunks, can not only contribute to blade and saw vibration but can also cause major blade tracking problems.
How do you fix a bent bandsaw blade?
How to straighten a bandsaw blade? It is risky but if it’s absolutely necessary, a temporary fix to straighten a bandsaw blade can be done by placing it on an anvil and gently tapping it flat with a nylon head hammer/mallet or using a pair of gas pliers to straighten out the blade.
Why does my bandsaw blade keep falling off?
Blade Tension Is Too Loose The most common reason why the blade is slipping off is that there isn’t enough tension to keep it on. Blades can slowly become loose after years of wear and tear, and eventually, you’ll need to tighten or replace them.
Why is my horizontal band saw not cutting straight?
Make sure the blade is running in the correct direction. On machines powered by three phases power so it is common to get the wiring reversed and have the blade running the wrong direction. On all vertical blade bandsaws the working portion of the blade should go down. This forces the workpiece down into the table.
Why are my bandsaw cuts wavy?
The clasic cause for wavy lumber is pushing a dull blade past it’s limits. Sharp don’t get it.
What are bandsaw tires made of?
Tires are sold Individually. Rubber tires require bandsaw tire glue for installation. Luxite’s replacement rubber band saw tires are made of quality rubber and are compatible with most models of band saws such as Craftsman, Delta Tools, DeWalt, Grizzly, Parks, Makita, Milwaukee, Powertec, Ryobi, Skil and others.
How much tension should a bandsaw blade have?
For carbon steel toothed blades (cutting blades) this is typically 15,000 to 25,000 PSI. Slitting type blades typically are tensioned in the range of 12,000 to 20,000 PSI. In general bandsaw blades are never tensioned past 35,000 psi.
How much tension do you put on a bandsaw blade?
Bandsaw blades require tension and lots of it to consistently produce straight, uniform cuts, especially in thick or dense stock. Most blade manufacturers recommend 15,000 psi to 20,000 psi for a common carbon-steel blade.
How long should a bandsaw blade last?
On average your bandsaw blade should last 6 months to as long as a few years depending on what your cutting with it. Make sure to match your blade strength and quality to the project and material your cutting.