As a professional metalworker, finding the right band saw blade for cutting metal is crucial. The blade you choose can greatly affect the quality and efficiency of your work. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one is the best fit for your needs.
When it comes to cutting metal, a band saw blade with the right tooth pitch, thickness, and hardness is essential. It should be able to provide clean, accurate cuts and withstand the rigors of cutting through tough materials. Whether you’re working with steel, aluminum, or other metals, having the right blade can make all the difference in your productivity and the final results.
There are several factors to consider when selecting a band saw blade for cutting metal. The tooth pitch determines the number of teeth per inch and affects the speed and smoothness of the cut. The thickness of the blade determines its durability and ability to withstand the cutting process. The hardness of the blade affects its resistance to wear and tear.
Understanding the Different Types of Band Saw Blades
When it comes to cutting metal with a band saw, the type of blade you use can greatly impact the efficiency and quality of your cuts. There are several different types of band saw blades available, each designed for specific cutting applications. Understanding the different types of band saw blades can help you choose the right one for your needs.
Carbon Steel Blades: Carbon steel blades are the most common type of band saw blade used for cutting metal. They are versatile, affordable, and durable, making them a popular choice for general-purpose cutting. However, they tend to dull quickly when cutting hard metals and may not provide the cleanest cuts.
Bi-Metal Blades: Bi-metal blades are made from two different types of metal, usually high-speed steel and carbon steel. This combination gives them the strength and durability of high-speed steel, while the carbon steel makes them more affordable. Bi-metal blades are ideal for cutting hard metals and provide clean, precise cuts.
Carbide-Tipped Blades: Carbide-tipped blades are the most durable and long-lasting option for cutting metal. The carbide tips on the teeth of the blade make it resistant to wear and allow for faster cutting speeds. These blades are perfect for cutting hard and abrasive metals, but they are also the most expensive option.
Other factors to consider when choosing a band saw blade for cutting metal include the number of teeth per inch (TPI), tooth pitch, and tooth shape. Higher TPI blades are best for cutting thin materials, while lower TPI blades are better for thicker materials. The tooth pitch determines the speed and cleanliness of the cut, while tooth shape affects chip removal and heat dissipation.
- Carbon Steel Blades: Versatile, affordable, and durable, but may not provide the cleanest cuts.
- Bi-Metal Blades: Made from two different types of metal, ideal for cutting hard metals and provide clean, precise cuts.
- Carbide-Tipped Blades: The most durable and long-lasting option for cutting metal, perfect for cutting hard and abrasive metals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Band Saw Blade for Cutting Metal
As a metalworker, finding the right band saw blade for cutting metal is crucial to achieving precise and efficient cuts. There are several factors to consider when choosing a band saw blade that will meet your specific cutting needs.
Material: One of the first factors to consider is the type of metal you will be cutting. Different metals have different hardness levels and require specific blade types. For example, high-speed steel blades are ideal for cutting soft metals like aluminum, while bi-metal blades are better suited for cutting harder metals like titanium or stainless steel.
Blade Width: The width of the band saw blade is another important factor to consider. Narrow blades are ideal for making intricate cuts and curves, while wider blades are better suited for making straight cuts and resawing thicker metals. Choosing the right blade width will depend on the type of cuts you need to make.
Teeth Per Inch (TPI): The TPI refers to the number of teeth on the blade. Blades with a higher TPI are better suited for making smooth cuts on thin metals, while blades with a lower TPI are ideal for making faster cuts on thicker metals. Consider the thickness of the metals you will be cutting to determine the appropriate TPI for your band saw blade.
Tooth Style: The tooth style of a band saw blade can also affect the cutting efficiency and quality. There are several tooth styles to choose from, including regular, skip, and hook. Regular tooth blades are versatile and suitable for a wide range of metal cutting applications, while skip and hook tooth blades are better suited for cutting thick or hard metals.
Choosing the right band saw blade for cutting metal requires careful consideration of these factors. By selecting the appropriate blade material, width, TPI, and tooth style, you can ensure precise and efficient cuts in your metalworking projects.
Top Brands for Band Saw Blades for Cutting Metal
Considering the wide range of band saw blades available in the market for cutting metal, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. To make your selection easier, here are some of the top brands that are known for producing high-quality band saw blades for cutting metal:
- Lenox: Lenox offers a variety of band saw blades designed specifically for cutting metal. Their blades are known for their durability and precision, making them a popular choice among professionals.
- Starrett: Starrett is another reputable brand that produces band saw blades for cutting metal. Their blades are known for their excellent cutting performance and longevity.
- Bahco: Bahco is a trusted brand in the industry and offers a range of band saw blades suitable for cutting metal. Their blades are known for their high-quality construction and durability.
- MK Morse: MK Morse is a well-known brand that manufactures band saw blades for various applications, including cutting metal. Their blades are known for their excellent cutting capacity and longevity.
- Imachinist: Imachinist is a reliable brand that produces band saw blades specifically designed for cutting metal. Their blades are known for their sharpness and longevity.
When choosing a band saw blade for cutting metal, it’s essential to consider factors such as the material being cut, the thickness of the material, and the desired cutting performance. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for blade selection and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
By selecting a band saw blade from one of these top brands, you can have confidence in the quality and performance of the blade, allowing you to make precise cuts on various types of metal materials.
10 Best Band Saw Blades For Cutting Metal
Evolution Power Tools 14BLADEST Steel Cutting Saw Blade, 14-Inch x 66-Tooth , Blue
Features
| Part Number | 14BLADEST |
| Model | 14BLADEST |
| Warranty | No Warranty |
| Color | Blue |
| Release Date | 2017-03-12T00:00:01Z |
| Size | Blade |
- 14BLADEST: 14 inch mild steel saw blade with 66 teeth for chop saws (*Designed to cut mild steel only, do not use this blade for galvanized, hardened, or high-carbon steel)
- MILD STEEL CUTTING BLADE: Evolution's unique blades are designed for cutting mild steel and ferrous metal - Made from high-quality Japanese carbide and heat-treated for added durability
- NO HEAT, NO BURRS & VIRTUALLY NO SPARKS: Our TCT blades allow you to touch the finished cut within moments of cutting, unlike other blades that make the material too hot to touch, Evolution blades produce virtually no sparks
- LONG BLADE LIFE: Premium Tungsten Carbide Teeth (TCT) ensure maximum longevity and durability, hardened steel body minimises vibration, thin kerf design for accurate cuts and extended tool life
- FULL RANGE OF BLADES AVAILABLE: Evolution Power Tools offers a range of specialist blades for cutting different materials: stainless steel, mild steel and thin steel, aluminum, wood, masonry and a multi-material cutting blade
- 1600 RPM
- 66 Carbide Teeth, .094-Inch Kerf
- 1-Inch Arbor Size
Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
Features
| Part Number | D1472CF |
| Model | D1472CF |
| Color | Multi |
| Size | One Size |
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Cermet Blend Teeth for cutting metal withstands impact, reduces wear, and lasts up to 3X longer than standard carbide.
- Improved Laser Cut Stabilizer Vents trap noise and vibration for maximum stability, keeping it cool and accurate in metal cutting applications.
- Triple Chip Metal Cutting Grind designed to maximize life, speed, and durability, giving burr-free cuts in metal cutting applications
- Tri-Metal Shock Resistant Brazing a three metal brazing system allows metal cutting carbide tips to withstand extreme impact for maximum durability
- Spark free Cold Cutting blades are “Hot work” compliant saving you the time and hassle of obtaining a Hot Work permit for jobsites (Check local laws)
14 Inch Metal Cutting Saw Blade,Replacement for Evolution 14 Inch Metal Saw Blade for Evolution S355MCS S355CPS S355CPSL S380CPS Metal Cutting Saw,14 Inch x...
Features
| Part Number | 14BLADEST 14Inch Metal Cutting Saw Blade |
| Model | 14 Inch Metal Cutting Saw Blade |
| Size | 14 Inch-66Tooth |
- 【14BLADEST product details】; ① metal cutting saw blade model;14BLADEST ② blade cutting width;0.094 inches ③ blade diameter;14 inches ④ 14 inch saw blade tip material;carbide tip ⑤ blade maximum speed;1,600 RPM ⑥ blade hook angle;1.5 ° ⑦ blade mandrel size;1 inch ⑧ cutting saw blade teeth grinding;TCG ⑨ Number of teeth on cutting saw blade;66 ⑩Maximum depth of cut of blade;6 inches
- 【Wide range of applications】;Our 14 inch metal cutting saw blades are designed for Evolution metal cutting saws S355MCS,S355CPS,S355CPSL, S380CPS.Compatible with Dewalt DW872,Jancy MCCS14 / MCCS14-2,Milwaukee 6190-20,MK Morse CSM14MB,Ridgid 614,Steelmax S14,or any other 14-inch low RPM metal cutting saw.
- 【Excellent cutting performance】;14 inch metal cutting saw blade is made of high-density grade titanium carbide ceramic alloy, compared with the traditional 14 inch metal cutting saw blade has higher strength and hardness and better stability wear resistance can withstand higher wear loads, widely used in cutting mild steel plate, angle steel, pipe and various ferrous metals, can quickly and accurately cut hard materials, to provide you with higher Cutting precision.
- 【Longer Life Cycle】;Our 14 inch metal cutting saw blade tip adopts improved TCG trapezoidal tooth design, which makes each TCG tooth have small and flat cutting surface, which helps to improve the cutting efficiency and cutting precision, and also adopts upgraded high quality material and advanced brazing technology, which greatly improves the service life of the 14 inch metal cutting saw blade.
- 【Worry-free after-sales service】:If you are not satisfied for any reason during the purchase of our 14 inch metal cutting saw blades, we support to exchange or return the product for you. You can contact us at any time even if you have exceeded the replacement time required by Amazon. We will offer you a solution within 24 hours until you are satisfied.
Fits Milwaukee 48-40-4515 8" 42 Tooth Dry Cut Cermet Tipped Metal Cutting Saw Blade
Features
| Part Number | 48-40-4515 |
| Model | Milwaukee 48-40-4515 |
| Color | silver |
- Style: Compact
- Style: Compact
Irwin Tools IRWIN 7-1/4-Inch Metal Cutting Circular Saw Blade, 68-Tooth (4935560)
Features
| Part Number | 4935560 |
| Model | 4935560 |
| Color | Multi |
| Size | 7-1/4" 68T |
- Laser cut blade
- Anti-vibration vents prevent wobble for straighter, truer cuts
- Metal cutting grade carbide teeth stay sharp for long-lasting durability
- Anti-kickback tooth shoulder for safer cutting
- Ideal for cutting thin steel
- Metal cutting grade carbide teeth withstand impact, reduce wear and deliver longer life
- Laser cut blade provides for stronger tooth bond
- Laser cut anti-vibration vents stabilize the blade and keeps it cool for smooth and accurate cuts
- Anti-kickback shoulder reduces dust and sparks for safer cuts
FAQ:
What are the best band saw blades for cutting metal?
Some of the best band saw blades for cutting metal include bi-metal blades, carbide-tipped blades, and titanium-coated blades. These blades are known for their durability and ability to cut through various types of metal with ease.
What is a bi-metal blade?
A bi-metal blade is a type of band saw blade that is made from two different types of metal. Typically, the blade consists of high-speed steel teeth or tips welded to a flexible spring steel backing. This combination allows the blade to maintain its sharpness while also providing strength and flexibility.
What are carbide-tipped blades?
Carbide-tipped blades are band saw blades that have carbide teeth. Carbide is a very hard and durable material that is capable of cutting through tough metals. These blades are popular for cutting materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and non-ferrous metals.
What are titanium-coated blades?
Titanium-coated blades are band saw blades that have a thin layer of titanium nitride applied to their teeth. This coating significantly increases the blade’s hardness and reduces friction, allowing for smoother cuts and extended blade life. These blades are ideal for cutting hard metals like steel and titanium.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best band saw blades for cutting metal requires careful consideration of several factors. The type of metal being cut, the thickness of the metal, and the desired cut quality all play important roles in determining the ideal blade. Additionally, factors such as tooth pitch, tooth material, and blade width should be taken into account.
For general metal cutting, bi-metal blades with a variable tooth pitch are a popular choice, as they offer a good balance between cutting speed and durability. However, for more specific applications, such as cutting thick or hard metals, carbide-tipped or tungsten carbide blades may be the better option.
Ultimately, the best band saw blade for cutting metal will vary depending on the specific needs and requirements of the user. It is important to carefully evaluate these factors and choose a blade that will provide optimal performance and durability for the intended metal cutting tasks. With the right blade, users can achieve cleaner cuts, longer blade life, and overall improved efficiency in their metalworking projects.
