SECTION 6: OPERATIONS
Keep loose clothing out of the way of machinery and keep hair pulled back.
Disconnect power to the machine when perform- ing any adjustments or maintenance. Failure to do this may result in seri- ous personal injury.
Wear safety glasses dur- ing the entire operation process. Failure to com- ply may result in serious personal injury.
Always wear a dust mask when operating the bandsaw. Using this machine produces saw- dust which may cause allergic reactions or res- piratory problems.
NOTICE
The following section was designed to give instructions on the basic operations of this bandsaw. However, it is in no way compre- hensive of every bandsaw application. There are many different jigs that can be built to increase the safety and accuracy of different kinds of cuts. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND that you read books, trade magazines, or get formal training to maximize the potential of your bandsaw.
The bandsaw is one of the most versatile machines in the shop. It can cut miters, com- pound angles, simple and complex curves, cir- cles, and a wide variety of irregular shapes. It can also rip and crosscut, as well as cut a variety of joints. The bandsaw will also resaw stock into thinner boards.
Pre-Run Check
There are many adjustment points and compen- sating differences to consider when operating this type of saw. Therefore, cutting results can be somewhat unpredictable if some or all of the cru- cial adjustments are neglected. Here are a few simple things you can do to increase the pre- dictability of your bandsaw performance:
1.Always use a sharp, high-quality blade.
2.Use the right blade for the job. Resawing with a 1/16" blade or doing scrollwork with a 1" blade are extreme examples of using the wrong blade for the job.
3.Allow the saw to cut. Do not force the workpiece into the blade. Remember that while negotiating a curve, the blade should still be cutting the wood. Simply turning the workpiece will only bind the blade and could break it.
4.Maintain your bandsaw in top condition. See the following section of this manual for maintenance procedures.
G4186Z 18" Bandsaw