The jig works by measuring the amount of stretch in the bandsaw blade as force is applied by the bandsaw tension spring. Every 0.001″ of blade stretch is equal to 5,800 psi of tension over 5″ of blade. “When resawing, blade manufacturers recommend a blade tension of 15,000 psi. Therefore, you would need 0.0026” of blade stretch in order to reach the recommended amount of tension.
I tension it by feel then turn it on and off, if it doesn’t cost about 6″ of blade travel it’s too tight and too loose if it travels more.
We’ve seen various methods for setting bandsaw blade tension, from fancy gauges to plucking the blade like a guitar string. Turn the tensioning handwheel until the tension gauge is at or a little above the recommended tension for your blade width. With the saw running, slowly release the tension-about 1⁄2 turn of the tensioning wheel at a time-until the blade starts to flutter, as shown at right.
how to measure bandsaw tension Related Question:
How much tension should a bandsaw blade be?
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 do you tension a Timberwolf bandsaw blade?
Shut the motor or engine off and wait until the blade comes to a full stop. Add another 10% of tension to the blade by turning the screw-tensioner approximately 1/8 to 1/4 turn. The “flutter test” is now complete and you are now at appropriate tension for that particular blade.
Why do bandsaws wander?
If the wheels are worn and do not have a distinct top to the crown then the blade will not know where to go, and may wander around. This of course can cause poor cut quality and difficulty in setting the guides.
Why does my bandsaw blade 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.
How fast should a sawmill blade run?
Re: Speed of band blade or Rpms Wood Mizer likes the blade to run at 5800 Surface Feet Per Min. The LT70 Super is the first mill for Wood Mizer than you can adjust the band speed through engine RPM. Frozen and extremely hard and dense wood MAY cut better with a slower band speed.