Why buy this type of machine? When you are looking for machinery for your workshop, consider used equipment, as it offers the same performance as a new machine at a very affordable price.
What is a metal-cutting band saw?
A second-hand metal-cutting band saw is a used machine tool, but one that has been fully reconditioned, is fully functional and offers the same benefits and performance as new equipment. Why buy a second-hand metal-cutting band saw? To begin with, these machines are delivered in as-new condition but have the advantage of being considerably cheaper. They can also be acquired with accessories and tooling that, if you bought the machine new, you would have to source separately, which would increase the cost.
In addition, if you buy a second-hand metal-cutting band saw from an experienced dealer, you can also take advantage of their technical service. This will allow you to carry out preventive maintenance on the machine tool and so avoid equipment failures. Finally, used machinery is usually delivered almost immediately, which shortens lead times and avoids the waiting lists typical of new equipment.
What is a band saw? It is a conventional machine tool that can be driven electrically or by a pedal and is fitted with a metal band to make cuts in the workpiece. The band saw is also known as a bandsaw and is characterised by its cutting tool, the metal band or strip. The saw band is toothed, long, narrow and flexible. It is driven by two wheels positioned in the same vertical plane, between which the cutting tool runs.
What is a second-hand metal-cutting band saw used for?
If you are looking for a second-hand metal-cutting band saw, you need to be very clear about what you want to use it for and, of course, know what this machine tool does. As the name suggests, these machines are used to cut metals of different thicknesses and sizes. However, for the band to work properly, the cutting tool must be constantly lubricated; this is done with a coolant applied to the blade.
Thanks to the lubricant, the band stays cool and overheating of the machine is prevented. Overheating could cause defects in the cut and failures, and would shorten the life of the blade. Most metal-cutting saws can make cuts in the vertical plane. These machines can cut a wide variety of metals, such as steel, aluminium, brass, lead and non-ferrous metals.
Bear in mind that the cuts produced by this machine are irregular, so the part may need further machining on other machines such as grinding machines.
Construction of a metal-cutting band saw
A second-hand metal-cutting band saw consists of a bed on which the whole structure of the machine rests. These machines do not usually take up much space, as they are built in the vertical plane. A worktable is mounted on the bed, and the workpiece is moved across it to make the cuts.
The machine also has a frame shaped like a swan neck, on which two wheels are mounted. The wheels are balanced and positioned one above the other in the same plane. It is on these wheels that the endless band, or cutting tool, is fitted.
The parts of a metal-cutting band saw are:
- Band. This is what makes the cuts.
- Motor. It drives the machine's wheels.
- Wheels. There is a drive wheel and an idler wheel. The cutting tool is fitted on them.
- Guides. They guide the blade while it is running; thanks to the guides, the machine's movement is continuous and balanced.
- Hydraulic pumps. If the machine is semi-automatic or automatic, the hydraulic pumps provide the force needed to operate the machine.
- Coolant pumps. These keep the blade lubricated. The pumps supply and circulate the fluid so that the band is cooled and lubricated during cutting.
- Vices. They clamp the material to be cut so that the work is accurate.
Band saw operating tips
It is very important to use the machine in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, but also to bear in mind certain operating tips. The cutting tool wears over time, so it is very important to know the pitch (distance between teeth) and length of the saw band in order to replace it with a new one. The band should be replaced as soon as the first signs of wear appear.
To extend the life of the saw, it is important to use coolant constantly and to change it when necessary. The coolant carries away the chips; you should also use a cleaning brush to prevent chips from getting into the machine.
The blade must always be kept very sharp so that cuts are accurate and of high quality. You should also keep an eye on the temperature of the machine, because as the blade loses its edge, its temperature rises and the coolant may no longer be sufficient.