When to Replace Bandsaw Blade?

November 18, 2021

No one can deny the fact that most bandsaw problems are blade-related problems. In fact, this thing about bandsaw blade drift indicates that you’ve used the wrong saw blade or have a dull saw blade. As you use the bandsaw more often, its blade may get out of alignment, become wobbly, or get loose. If the saw blade shows any of the behaviors mentioned above, it will be best to check the tire and wheel of the bandsaw. 

If you see cracks in the tire or any chipping off, you need to replace the tires. If the saw blade is also dull, you need to replace it or resharpen it. If you don’t replace them, you might be putting yourself at risk of injury.

Most Common Signs of Dull Bandsaw Blade

As you become proficient in using a bandsaw, you will soon know the different signs of a dull saw blade. Even if you are not looking or inspecting the saw blade, you would intuitively know that the saw blade is dull by seeing the following signs and it’s time when you should replace a new bandsaw blade:

Not Cutting Straight

A dull saw blade is one of the common causes of the bandsaw not cutting straight. Once you notice that the bandsaw is not giving you straight cuts, you should check the saw blade’s teeth, for they might be dull. You can either sharpen the saw blade or replace it with a new one. Sharpening, of course, is effortful and time-consuming because you need to sharpen each tooth of the bandsaw blade.

Stripped Teeth

As you use the bandsaw, some of its blade teeth might get stripped. If the saw blade exhibits squeaking, it might be because the saw blade misses some teeth. In other instances, it might be producing smoke as it cuts through your material. Besides, it becomes a challenge to push your wood through the saw blade. 

You might mistake these signs as indicative of low tension of saw blade. Yet, it might be due to a dull saw blade. It might also be indicative of the saw blade’s teeth starting to strip. Such an issue might lead to the heating up of the saw blade beyond the manageable heat limit. In such a case, it will be best to replace your saw blade.

Small Fractures 

As the saying goes, all things that are subjected to constant friction usually get worn out. Thus, as your saw blade gets old, it gets worn out. It also begins to show mini cracks. The reason behind these cracks is that the saw blade gets hot when it cuts. 

If ever you notice these hairline fractures, you should refrain from using your bandsaw blade. Make sure you replace it because you will be at risk of injuries if you go on using it.

Remember that the duller the saw blade gets, the hotter it becomes when it cuts. Constant inordinate heating up of your saw blade would surely lead to hairline cracks. Thus, you need to constantly check your saw blade, especially if it is already old.

Squeaky and Noisy Blade

Another indicator that your bandsaw blade is dull is when you hear it squeaking or noisy. The sounds created by your bandsaw blade will surely be familiar to you. Yet, if there is a change in the sound it gives off, it might indicate dulling. You should inspect the saw blade and replace it if it is dull. 

Inconsistent movements of the Saw Blade

If the saw blade moves inconsistently while you cut, it might be a case of your saw blade dulling. Usually, you will notice burn marks on your wood and smell an odd burning odor. The saw blade, in this case, might be already fatigued and old and needs replacement.

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How Long Will A Bandsaw Blade Last?

The longevity and usefulness of your bandsaw blade will depend on how you use it and its material. In some cases, a bandsaw blade might not last more than a year. In other cases, it might last even for a year or more. But the durability of the bandsaw blade will depend on the material it is wrought. 

If your saw blade is well-constructed, it might even last for years. Moreover, the amount of cleaning and maintenance you provide your bandsaw blade will also factor well in its longevity. If you often use it in cutting hardwood, the saw blade might dull quickly.

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Conclusion

The bandsaw is one of the most valuable tools you can have in your woodworking arsenal. Nevertheless, it is not immune to damage and hairline cracks. Moreover, over time, the bandsaw blade will become dull and might need replacement. As a diligent owner of a bandsaw, you should be cognizant of the signs, indicative of the fact that the bandsaw blade is getting dull. 

If you regularly use your bandsaw, you will notice a remarkable change in its performance if the saw blade is dull. You will also see the abovementioned signs. As you see any of the indicators mentioned above, you should not dilly-dally in inspecting your saw blade, for your safety hinges on the integrity and efficiency of the bandsaw blade.