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Band Saw

The band saw is often used to cut stock down to a usable size and can cut thick stock smoothly. It can also be used to cut curved lines, but it does not offer the highest level of precision.

Operating Procedure

  1. Complete all safety checks before using the machine.

Make sure:

  • Safety glasses are on.
  • Long hair is tied up.
  • Sleeves are rolled up.

  • The area around the machine is clear.

  • Place the part on the table.

If the part is large, have one person support the end of the stock while the other operates the machine. This provides better control over the part.

  1. Adjust the blade guard height.

Loosen the guard knob and lower the guard until it is approximately ⅛–¼ in. above the top of the part. Tighten the guard knob fully.

Keeping the guard close to the part reduces blade movement and minimizes the amount of exposed blade.

  1. Set up a guide if necessary.

Use a right-angle or straight-line guide when making a straight cut. Use an appropriate push tool or other shop-approved method when needed to keep your hands safely away from the blade.

  1. Check the part before starting.

Make sure the part is not touching the blade before turning on the machine.

  1. Turn on the band saw.

Press the ON button on the left side of the machine.

  1. Make the cut.

Maintain control of the part and slowly feed it into the blade. Keep the workpiece stable throughout the cut.

!!! warning "Do not pull the workpiece backward"
    **Never pull the part backward through the blade while the machine is running.**

    If the part needs to be repositioned, stop the machine and wait for the blade to stop completely before readjusting it.
  1. Turn off the machine.

Once the cut is complete, press the appropriate OFF control and wait for the blade to come to a complete stop.

!!! danger "Emergency"
    If something goes wrong, use the **emergency stop** and follow your shop's emergency procedures.
  1. Clean up.

After the blade has completely stopped:

  • Remove the finished part and scrap material.
  • Turn off the lamp.
  • Clean the machine and surrounding work area.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before operating the band saw, verify:

  • [ ] Safety glasses are on.
  • [ ] Long hair is secured.
  • [ ] Loose clothing and sleeves are secured.
  • [ ] Work area is clear.
  • [ ] Blade guard is properly adjusted.
  • [ ] Workpiece is clear of the blade before startup.
  • [ ] You know the location of the emergency stop.