Blade Speed
The Model G8976 blade speed is variable and can be adjusted from 50 to 2300 FPM. Blade speed adjustments are made by turning the blade speed knob below the power switch (Figure 35).
NOTICE
Most woodcutting can be performed suc- cessfully at the higher blade speeds. Slower blade speeds generally produce better results when cutting hardwoods, intricate curves, or when an exceptionally smooth cut is desired.
Figure 35. Blade speed knob.
Blade Selection
NOTICE
Cutting with the bandsaw without correctly adjusting the tracking and tension may result in the blade falling off the wheels, causing damage to the machine. Read and follow the directions in Section 5: Set Up after changing or adjusting the saw blade.
A combination of factors must be considered when selecting the correct blade for a particular cutting operation.
BLADE WIDTH
The Model G8976 can use blades from 1⁄4" to 3⁄8" in width. Blade width dictates the largest and smallest curves that can be cut, as well as how accurately it can cut a straight line.
•Curve Cutting — Use the chart in Figure 36 to determine the correct blade for curve cut- ting. Determine the smallest radius curve that will be cut on your workpiece and use the corresponding width blade.
Figure 36. Determining correct blade width for cutting various curve sizes.
•Straight Cutting — Use the largest width blade that you own.
G8976 3 Wheel 12" Bandsaw |