1. Break-In Your Blades Properly

🔧 Blade Break-In Procedure (Bi-Metal Bandsaw Blades)

1. Install Blade Correctly

  • Ensure correct direction of teeth, proper tension, and guides adjusted.

2. Start with Reduced Feed Pressure

  • For the first cuts, reduce feed pressure (or feed rate) to about 50% of normal.
  • Keep full cutting speed (SFPM or m/min) – don’t slow the blade speed, only the feed.

3. Make the First Cuts

  • Cut solid stock: run at 50% feed for the first 25–75 cm² of material area (depends on size/hardness).
  • Cut tubing or structurals: run at 50% feed for the first 5–10 cuts.

4. Gradually Increase Feed

  • After this break-in period, gradually increase feed pressure up to 100% normal operating rate over the next few cuts.

5. Return to Normal Operation

  • Once broken in, the blade can run at recommended speed/feed for the material.

Why this matters: Proper break-in gently hones the sharp tooth tips, preventing micro-chipping and dramatically extending blade life.

2. Match the Blade to the Material

  • Use coarse tooth blades (2–3 TPI) for large solids and structural steel.
  • Use finer tooth blades (10–14 TPI) for thin wall tubing or sheet.
  • Always keep at least 3 teeth in the cut to avoid tooth stripping.

3. Control Speed and Feed

  • Too much speed = overheating and premature wear.
  • Too little speed = poor cut quality and tooth chipping.
  • Adjust speed (m/min) and feed pressure (mm/min) according to the material. Refer to the bandsaw manual for recommended settings.

4. Use Coolant Effectively

Coolant reduces heat, lubricates the blade, and helps flush chips from the cut. Always keep coolant clean, properly mixed, and flowing directly into the cut. SharkTooth Green Bandsaw Coolant is ideal for steel fabrication.

5. Maintain Proper Tension

Incorrect blade tension is a common cause of poor performance:

  • Too low = blade wanders and cuts out of square.
  • Too high = blade or machine damage.
    Always set to the manufacturer’s recommended tension.

6. Keep Your Saw Clean

Built-up chips and swarf reduce accuracy and increase wear. Regularly clean the machine, guides, and wheels to keep everything running smoothly.

7. Watch for Common Issues

  • Tooth stripping → feed too heavy or wrong TPI.
  • Blade wandering → low tension or worn guides.
  • Premature wear → no coolant, wrong speed, or poor break-in.

8. Replace Blades at the Right Time

Don’t wait until the blade snaps. Replace when you notice slower cutting, increased noise, or poor finish. Running a worn blade costs more in wasted time and material.

Need More Help?

Our team at Industrial Machinery Sales & Service can recommend the right SharkTooth blade and coolant for your application. Contact us for advice on maximising your cutting performance.