Bandsaw tensioning After I built my home made bandsaw, I wanted to get a better idea of how much tension I was putting on the blade. “Bandsaw blades can take 15,000 PSI of tension. A greater limit is how much force your bandsaw can take. From my measurements, given the limitations of a typical bandsaw, it’s just about impossible to over-tension any but the narrowest of bandsaw blades. 70 pounds is more than my 14” bandsaw is capable of. Home made tension gauge Because clamping a caliper to a bandsaw blade is awkward and can damage the blade, I built myself a simple bandsaw tension gauge using some birch plywood and a dial indicator.
On a machine with screw over spring tensioning, the most common on smaller machines, only really dependable way to set the blade tension is with a blade tension gauge. The machine manufacturer will provide a chart showing how much blade force is generated by any air pressure, and the blade tension in typical blade sizes. Over tightening the blade will shorten the life of the blade wheel rubber, bearings, and blade.
band saw blade tensioning gauge Related Question:
How much tension should there be on a bandsaw blade?
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.
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.
What is tension gauge?
Push & Pull Tension Gauge This is a multi-purpose dynamometer to measure compression and the competence tension of the measured object by using a head or hook.
What causes bandsaw blade drift?
Drift is cause because the blade buckles under the load. You can see that by stretching a ribbon between 2 points and applying a pressure to one of the edges, it will turn sideway easily. A sharp blade and high blade speed will help a lot with that.
Why does my bandsaw bounce?
A lack of straightness in either the blade or weld could be causing the blade to bounce. Next, it is important to check the blade tension and make sure that it is high enough to keep blade bounce to a minimum. That way, your blade won?t take as much damage.
What’s the formula of tension?
Tension formula is articulated as. T=mg+ma. Where, T= tension (N or kg-m/s2) g = acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s2)
What are dial tension gauge used for?
It enables you testing the measuring force of dial indicators. You can also use it for adjusting tension and compression springs. A divided dial plate allows you to make measurements in both directions.
Why won’t my bandsaw cut straight?
Band Saw: Why won’t my band saw cut straight? When the band saw cuts crooked, a dull blade, improper feeding, loose blade tension or not using a work piece guide could be the cause. Use the rip fence or miter gauge to guide the work piece uniformly through the cutting blade to make straight cuts.