In this article, we will explain the benefits of carbide tipped band saw blades and when to use them. Band saw blades can be divided into three general types: carbon, bi-metal and carbide tipped. It’s commonly understood that carbide tipped blades should only be run on new, high end band saw machines.
A bandsaw will generally have a larger capacity than a cut off saw. Even if you can wedge it into the cut off saw, it ain’t going to be happy cutting big stuff. 4-500 isn’t going to buy you much bandsaw new above and beyond the HF 4×6, all 4×6 are basically the same, go to HF. The Grizzly 5×6 miter bandsaw that was just posted about here at $700 looks to be about the best deal on a smaller saw with the added bonus of mitering.
The first photo shows a tooth on a carbide tip band saw blade , you can clearly see the added piece of carbide that’s brazed in place. During the manufacture of these blades, the teeth are impregnated with the carbide particles , a process the company discovered while developing the Woodsaver Thin-Kerf Carbide Resaw blades. To keep a smooth, clean and cool cut, the coating on the teeth on a band saw blade cannot be extremely thick , certainly not as thick as the pieces of carbide in tipped blades.
Bi-Metal Saw Blades:Bi-metal band saw blades cover the broadest range of sawing applications. Carbide Saw Blades:Carbide band saw blades are your solution to cut through materials bi-metal and carbon steel blades just won’t cut. Hopefully, you found the above information helpful in determining which type of band saw blade to use for your application.
I like the cut and minimal sparks when cutting, can sometimes loose a carbide tip, so eye protection is a must, I only recommend full face type face shields and rarely anymore wear just the eyeglass type. Air saws, nibblers, shears, electric nibblers cut off wheels angled and extended reach, plasma, I want a bandsaw next. Used to cut with a torch years ago, can’t even remember the last time I cut with a torch now.
carbide vs band saw Related Question:
Are carbide saw blades better?
Carbide-tipped blades are much harder and more heat and impact resistant, making them deal well with steel and lasting up to 200 times longer than the basic carbon steel blade.
Are carbide tipped bandsaw blades worth it?
The less-expensive blades do the job and last an OK length of time provided you don’t hit a rogue steel fragment buried in your timber. The carbide-tip blades last longer, cut faster and will polish off a few errant gun shot slugs without problems.
What are carbide saw blades used for?
Carbide saw blades are used by woodworkers and craftsmen for precision cuts for projects that require minimal to no tearout, such as cabinet making or furniture building. Circular carbide tip blades are generally used with miter and table saws.
Can a bandsaw cut hardened steel?
Carbide band saw blades provide high wear resistance and toughness when cutting a variety of applications such as: case hardened steels, spring steels, high speed steels, nickel based alloys, case hardened steels, composite graphite, high nickel alloys, titanium, inconnel, and other exotic metals.