Cutting Curves
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 T.P.I. A blade with more T.P.I. can cut relatively tighter radii, though the cut is usually rougher than cuts produced by a blade with a medium amount of T.P.I.
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 cuts made through the waste por- tion of the workpiece and are stopped at the lay- out 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.
NOTICE
The table below lists blade widths and cor- responding minimum radii each blade will cut.
Width |
| Radius |
3⁄8'' | 11⁄2'' | |
1⁄2'' | 21⁄2'' | |
3⁄4'' | 51⁄2'' | |
1'' | 6'' | |
11⁄2'' | 8'' | |
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Stacked Cuts
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.Secure all the pieces together in a manner that will not interfere with the cutting. Hot glue on the edges works well, as does brad nails through the waste portion. (Be careful not to cut into the brads!)
3.On the face of the top piece, lay out the shape you intend to cut.
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 as shown in Figure 44.
Cutting into brad nails that are used to secure the multiple pieces can cause the blade to brake and may cause an injury to the operator. Be extremely careful of where you are cutting when performing this oper- ation.
Figure 44. Cutting multiple pieces at once.
G1012 18" Bandsaw