When working on any project, it’s important to use the right tools for the job. For example, you wouldn’t use a butter knife to cut steak, as the blade isn’t sharp enough for the task. The same principle applies to different saw blades, as different blades are designed for use on different materials, such as wood or metal.
In this article, our team at Farris Belt & Saw Company will go over a few key differences between wood- and metal-cutting band saw blades to help you understand which option to select for your next project.
- Size and Tooth Pattern – Metal-cutting band saw blades tend to be narrower than wood-cutting blades, as cutting wood requires a wider cutting surface. Additionally, the pattern of teeth on these types of saw blades tends to vary. Metal-cutting blades have teeth specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of cutting metal, such as the increased heat generated in the process.
- Cutting Capacity – Another key difference between wood- and metal-cutting band saw blades is the way each is designed for a different cutting capacity. Band saws for wood tend to have larger cutting capacities, meaning they can handle larger pieces of wood. Band saws for metal, on the other hand, tend to have a smaller cutting capacity.
- Coolant Systems – A third difference between band saws for wood and band saws for metal is their different cooling requirements. Metal-cutting band saw blades must be able to deal with more intense heat, so they are typically designed with specialized coolant systems that absorb as much heat as possible, drawing the excess heat away from the cutting blade.