Stacked Cuts | Cutting Curves |
One of the benefits of a bandsaw is its ability to cut multiple copies of a particular shape by stack- ing a number of workpieces together.
Before making stacked cuts, it is essential to ensure that both the table and the blade are prop- erly adjusted to 90°. Otherwise, any error will be compounded with each piece cut from the top to the bottom of the stack.
To complete a stacked cut:
1.Align your pieces from top to bottom to ensure that each piece has adequate scrap to provide a clean, unhampered cut.
2.Using brads in the waste portion of each piece, secure all the pieces together.
3.Lay out the shape you intend to cut on the face of the top piece.
4.Make relief cuts perpendicular to the outline of your intended shape in areas where changes in blade direction could strain the woodgrain or cause the blade kerf to bind.
5.Cut the stack of pieces as though you were cutting a single piece. Follow your layout line with the blade kerf on the waste side of your line.
When cutting curves, simultaneously feed and turn the stock carefully so that the blade follows the layout line without being twisted. If a curve is so abrupt that it is necessary to repeatedly back up and cut a new kerf, use either a narrower blade or a blade with more set.
Always make short cuts first, then proceed to the longer cuts. Relief cuts will also reduce the chance that the blade will be pinched or twisted. Relief cuts are made through the waste portion of the workpiece and are stopped at the layout line. As you cut along the layout line, waste wood is released from the workpiece, alleviating any pressure on the back of the blade. Relief cuts also make backing the workpiece out easier, if needed. Figure 32 lists blade widths and the cor- responding minimum radii each blade will cut.
BLADE WIDTH | MINIMUM RADII |
1/16" | 1/8" |
1/8" | 3/16" |
3/16" | 5/16" |
1/4" | 5/8" |
3/8" | 11/2" |
1/2" | 21/2" |
5/8" | 4" |
3/4" | 51/2" |
Figure 32. Minimum circle radius vs. blade size.
G1019 14'' Bandsaw |