04 - Making a Cut

Check that the table angle locking knobs and blade guide locking knob are securely tightened.

Inspect the blade guides to ensure that nothing is loose or allows too much play.

Don't ever use bandsaw without guards on it. If you see the bandsaw is missing a guard, contact a volunteer right away, and do not attempt to use the bandsaw. Before using the bandsaw, adjust the guard so that it is less than a fingertip's width above your piece to prevent your finger from passing through the saw.

Hook up a shop vac and turn on dust collection. Dust can accumulate in and around the wheel where the bandsaw rotates and can prevent it from rotating smoothly.

Make sure a push stick is next to you.

Position self and piece directly behind blade.

Press the start button to turn on the saw.

Wait for the saw to come up to speed before continuing.

Feed your material through the saw, following your marks.

Do NOT cut round objects on the bandsaw without consulting an area manager. Round objects can rotate and spin and get stuck on the saw blade.

Key Point: Do not force your material through the saw blade. Check to see that the blade is sharp if the material doesn't feed through easily.

Once the piece reaches, or is near, the red circle on the table, grab your push stick and proceed to finish your cut.

Press the stop button to turn off the saw.

Key Point: Be sure to sweep and dispose of saw dust, and return the table to zero degrees (if tilted) when done.