Another newbie question

[Dave M]

Okay could be a basic question I guess.

 

How do I know when to replace my blades? When they start burning the wood? Slowing cut? What? I read some where that a guy replaces his after every hour of cutting, is that a good practice? I seem to still be cutting with my first blade without a problem.

 

Thanks

 

Dave

[labouton1]

Hi there;

I usually replace my blades when I have to use to much pressure pushing the wood through. At that point I will take the blade out and physically examine it and, lo and behold, the teeth are worn down. If I'm doing intricate cuts on stacked wood, I may replace more often just so the pressure I exert won't mess up the bottom piece. Hope this helps.

Al

[Dan]

Hi Dave. I replace heavier blades (#5 and up) when it either starts burning the wood or when I have to use too much pressure. On thinner blades, I never have the problem with burning the wood, so I just change them when they don't seem to cut well. If you are happy with the blade you're using, keep using it. Eventually you'll get use to knowing when the blade is dull and change it at that time. I'm a tightwad so I probably use my blades longer than I should (as exhibited by more frequent blade breakage).

 

Dan

[grampa]

Hi Dave, If I am cutting fine detail work I will change my blade every 1/2 hour, if its just a basic pattern I will cahange it every hour depending on the wood................Paul

[steviegwood]

It will come easier with practice, knowing when to change blades. Make a mental note of how they cut new and when they are getting dull you will know. If you are burning the wood you have well went past the point of where it needs changed. Now on some hardwood they will burn more quickly and you will have to change them more often. As for timing blade usage I do not know of a way to regulate that as some blades will last longer in the same wood out of the same pack. I find it easier and cheaper to change blades than to spend time trying to sand out burns. Hope this helps. BTW I buy my blades by the gross, they are cheaper that way after you get comfortable with certain blades that is the way to go. Steve

[Huntter2022]

All have gave great advice

But burning can be caused by cutting to fast you can add packing tape to help lubricate the blade

[rja]

The length of time a blade remains viable is greatly dependent on the type and thickness of wood being cut. A blade cutting 3/4" thick bloodwood might last 10 minutes. The same blade cutting 3/4" thick poplar may last 1/2 hour or longer. Cutting plywood will wear out a blade faster than cutting the same thickness of solid wood because the glue is a bit abrasive. Cutting speed, or strokes per minute, of the saw also has an effect on blade life. Cutting at a high speed on thick hardwood will overheat the blade and greatly shorten its life. Experience will teach you the "sweet spot" where production and blade life are maximized. Keep practicing.

[FD Mike]

rja,

That is a great answer.

Mike

[Dave M]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the guidance.