Cutting Curves
When cutting curves, simultaneously feed and turn the stock carefully so that the blade follows the layout line without twisting. 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 TPI (teeth per inch).
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 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.
NOTICE
The list below displays blade widths and the corresponding minimum radii of each size of blade for the Model ST1000.
Width | Radius |
1⁄8" | 1⁄8" |
3⁄16" | 3⁄8" |
1⁄4'' | 5⁄8'' |
3⁄8'' | 11⁄4'' |
1⁄2'' | 21⁄2'' |
5⁄8'' | 33⁄4'' |
3⁄4'' | 51⁄2'' |
Stacked Cuts
Bandsaws have the ability to cut multiple copies of a particular shape by stacking workpieces together.
Before making stacked cuts, ensure that both the table and the blade are properly 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 do 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 cut- ting a single piece. Follow your layout line with the blade kerf on the waste side of your line as shown in Figure 37.
Figure 37. Cutting multiple pieces at once.
ST1000 14" Bandsaw |