bandsaw blade speed

[bugeye]

Hi folks,
I just got my hands on a really nice old 36" bandsaw, and am in the process of setting it up. I'm having trouble finding info on what blade speed I should aim for. I'll be cutting mostly hardwoods in the 1 to 6 inch range. Any advice would be appreciated.

[T.A.R.]

Check out old wood working machines.com

[kc8pql]

My old 20" Powermatic runs a 4500 SFM, if that helps any.

[Gary E]

Blade speed 2000/4000 FPM

Read the Specs...
http://www.redmond-machinery.com/powermatic_2013.htm

Slower blade speed for harder material will make them last longer..

[George Roberts]

3000-3200 ft/min (depending on what pullies are available) seems like a nice range for me.

[kc8pql]

My Powermatic is a model 81 made in Tennessee and weighs almost 1000 lbs., not the lighter Jet/Powermatic Chiwainese saw Gary found specs. for. It runs at 2000 or 4500 SFM. 2000 works great for thick bronze and 4500 will cut 1/16th" venieer 12" wide with 5hp.

[ 09-10-2005, 11:29 AM: Message edited by: kc8pql ]

[Tom Lathrop]

Things to consider.

1. Larger diameter wheel saws can and should be run faster. Less flexing means that the blade can be run faster.

2. Thick stock needs either or both faster cutting speed and greater tooth spacing. This allows the blade to run cooler and truer when the gullets don't fill with sawdust.

3. For your 1 to 6 inch stock I'd use a 2 or 3 tooth/inch blade and at least 3500 SFPM speed, preferably 4000 SFPM. Some industrial blades run at up to 5000 SFPM.

4. Go to the Suffolk Machinery website and read their rules of bandsawing.

http://www.suffolkmachinery.com/six_rules.asp

[ 09-10-2005, 02:57 PM: Message edited by: Tom Lathrop ]

[George Roberts]

Blade speed does not depend on the thickness or type of wood as much as it depends on ...

blade material - High carbon, HSS, carbide

machine bearings - babbit, oil lub, sealed ball, sealed roller

[bugeye]

hi folks,
thanks for all the advice. some of the links were very helpful. Much appreciated.