6 Features To Consider Before Buying a Horizontal Bandsaw

May 02, 2023

Bandsaws are an integral part of the manufacturing world. During recent decades, thanks to the many innovations, the use of industrial bandsaws is more common than ever. A horizontal metal bandsaw is an essential tool for any industrial manufacturing or metalworking project, but selecting the wrong machine could result in costly mistakes and wasted time. With so many models and features available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we'll explore six critical features to consider before buying a horizontal bandsaw that will help ensure you make the best investment for the success of your business.

6 Must-Have Features For a Horizontal Bandsaw

1. Cutting capacity:

Cutting capacity is one of the most important features to consider before buying a metal bandsaw. It refers to the maximum size of material that can be cut by the saw. One should always choose a cutting capacity that suits their specific needs. The cutting capacity of a bandsaw machine depends on its throat size (the distance between the vertical frame and blade guides). A larger throat size means greater cutting capacity, allowing for bigger materials to be cut with ease.

It's essential to determine what type of materials you'll be working with before choosing your ideal cutting capacity. If you're going to work with smaller pieces, then it's ideal to opt for machines with lower capacities as they are more cost-effective and take up less space.
However, if you plan on working with larger metal sheets or pipes frequently, investing in a high-capacity horizontal metal saw will help increase productivity and save time. Picking an appropriate cutting capacity will ensure smooth operations, prevent damage caused by improper cuts, and enhance productivity in your workspace.

2. Blade Size and Type:

Blade size and type are important factors to consider when purchasing a horizontal bandsaw. The blade size will determine the thickness of the material that can be cut while the blade type will affect the precision and quality of cuts. A wider blade is generally better for cutting thicker materials as it provides more stability and less vibration during use. On the other hand, a narrower blade is ideal for intricate cuts on thinner materials.

The teeth per inch (TPI) of a blade also play an important role in determining its functionality. Blades with fewer TPI are best suited for rough cuts while blades with higher TPI provide cleaner, smoother cuts. It's worth noting that different types of blades are designed for specific materials such as wood or metal.
Choosing the right blade type ensures optimal performance and longevity of your saw. When selecting a horizontal metal bandsaw, take into consideration what types of materials you'll be working with most often to ensure you choose the appropriate blade size and type.

3. Power and Motor Size:

When it comes to choosing a horizontal bandsaw, power, and motor size are critical features to consider. The power of your saw will determine the speed at which you can cut through different materials. A more powerful saw is essential when cutting thicker or harder metals.
The motor size is also significant as it affects the overall performance of your machine. If the motor is too small, it may not be able to handle tough jobs, leading to downtime and damage to your equipment.

It's important to note that both power and motor size should match for optimal results. For example, a high-powered machine with a smaller motor may cause unnecessary strain on the engine, causing wear and tear over time.
To ensure you choose the right power and motor size for your needs, consider what types of materials you'll be cutting most frequently. Then look for an industrial band saw that offers enough horsepower while still being efficient in energy usage.

4. Material Support:

Material support is the ability of the saw to hold and manipulate different types of materials during cutting. The size and weight of your workpiece will determine how much material support you need. Too little material support can cause vibrations, which can lead to inaccurate cuts or even damage to the machine. On the other hand, too much support can slow down the cutting process unnecessarily.

When choosing a metal bandsaw, make sure it has enough material support for your specific needs. Some machines have adjustable tables that allow you to customize them according to your workpiece size and shape. It's also recommended to check whether the table tilts or rotates as this will enable angled cuts without having to reposition your workpiece manually. Selecting a horizontal bandsaw with adequate material support ensures smoother operation, better accuracy, and greater ease of use when working with various materials.

5. Blade Speed:

The blade speed refers to the number of teeth that pass through the material in one minute. A faster blade speed means quicker and smoother cuts, but slower speeds are better for thicker materials.
When cutting harder metals like stainless steel or titanium, it's essential to have a higher blade speed because these materials can create heat during the cut which can damage the saw blade of the automatic bandsaw or cause problems with accuracy.

On the other hand, softer metals such as aluminum and brass require lower blade speeds since they don't generate much heat while being cut. It's also important to note that some bandsaws come equipped with variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the blade speed based on your specific needs.
This feature gives you greater control over your cuts and ensures that you achieve clean results every time. When shopping for a horizontal bandsaw machine, make sure you choose one with adjustable blade speeds so that you can easily adapt your cutting style depending on the material being used.

6. Blade Guides

Blade guides are an essential feature to consider before buying a horizontal saw. These guides help ensure the saw blade moves straight and true through the material being cut, resulting in smooth and accurate cuts. There are two main types of blade guides: roller and carbide. Roller guides use bearings or rollers to support the blade, while carbide guides use small pieces of carbide to guide the blade.

Roller guides are generally less expensive than carbide guides but can wear out more quickly. Carbide guides, on the other hand, last longer but may require occasional adjustment. It's important to choose a bandsaw with appropriate blade guide spacing for your application. The closer together the blade guide rollers or carbides are spaced, the better control you'll have over your cuts.

Some horizontal saws also come equipped with adjustable hydraulic down-feed controls that allow you to adjust cutting pressure based on material type and thickness. This can help prolong blade life and improve cutting accuracy. Choosing a horizontal bandsaw with high-quality blade guides is crucial for achieving precise cuts consistently over time.

Conclusion

Buying a horizontal or vertical bandsaw is a significant investment for any metalworking operation. That's why you need to consider the essential features before making your final decision. Investing in an industrial-grade bandsaw machine requires careful consideration of these six features mentioned above. Doing so and finding one which suits your specific needs best could lead to increased productivity and more efficient operations – ultimately increasing profits over time!

Industrial Bandsaw Services is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to horizontal bandsaws and bandsaw supplies in general. You can rely on us for sourcing everything from horizontal and vertical bandsaws to bandsaw blades and bandsaw parts at the best rates. Our expert staff can guide you and help you choose the best bandsaw for your applications. Contact us today to learn about everything we can do for you.