Grizzly G7211, G7212 instruction manual Operations, Pre-Run Check, Bandsaw Blades

SECTION 6: OPERATIONS

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 bandsawÕs performance:

1.Always use a sharp, high-quality blade. Although you might save a few dollars ini- tially, buying a cheap blade will give you cheap results. As a rule, spending more now saves you money later.

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.Set the top guide assembly so it is just above the top of the work at all times.

4.Allow the saw to cut. Don’t force the workpiece into the blade. When cutting curves or irregular shapes, remember that while negotiating a curve, the blade should still be cutting wood. Simply turning the workpiece will only bind the blade and could break it.

5.Maintain your bandsaw in top condition. See the following section of this manual for maintenance procedures.

Bandsaw Blades

A bandsaw blade is a delicate piece of steel sub- jected to tremendous strain. Be sure you use quality blades of the proper width for the various types of cutting operations. The Grizzly G7211/7212 24" Bandsaw accepts 1541Ú2" blades ranging in widths from 1Ú2" to 11Ú4".

Always use the widest blade possible for the workpiece you are cutting. Use narrow blades only for sawing small, abrupt curves and for fine, delicate work. Bandsaw blades can be purchased welded, set, and sharpened ready-for-use from GrizzlyÕs catalog or website.

Always select and use good-quality saw blades and choose the right blade for the job. Poor qual- ity blades and improper use are often the cause of premature blade failure.

Many conditions can lead to breakage. Blade breakage is, in some cases, unavoidable, since it is the natural result of the peculiar stresses that bandsaw blades are subjected to. Blade break- age is also due to avoidable causes. Avoidable breakage is most often the result of poor care or judgement on the part of the operator when mounting or adjusting the blade or support guides. The most common causes of blade break- age are: (1) faulty alignment and adjustment of the guides; (2) forcing or twisting a wide blade around a curve or short radius; (3) feeding too fast; (4) tooth dullness or absence of sufficient set; (5) excessive tension; (6) upper blade guide assembly set too high above the workpiece; (7) using a blade with a lumpy or improperly finished weld; and (8), continuously running the bandsaw when not in use.

G7211/7212 24" Bandsaw -15-