Metal band saw

[gus1962]

We all know that we can convert wood cutting band saw to metal cutting saw. I am just wondering. I have a horizontal metal band saw and I've never tried cutting wood on it. I have some 2x2 wood lumber in my yard and planning to cut them on half to obtain the exact height of each that I need. I know that I can just use a hand saw and get it done. But I just wanna know if it's possible to do this. Is it advisable to use a metal cutting band saw in cutting wood ? Aside from changing the speed and blade, what are the other things I have to consider?

 

[BlindViper]

I use my porta band to cut wood all the time and I don't change the blade either.

 

[gus1962]

Have you tried cutting 8-10 inch round logs?

 

[Mohawk Dave]

2"x2"? Yea, it will be fine. Just go a little slow for wood since the blade is slow moving with fine teeth for metal. It will not hurt it like metal on a wood blade would.

Obv. you don't want to hog logs, but 2x2 will be fine.

 

[zkling]

Will it work, yes. Will it be optimal, no. Will it be better than trying to cut 2x2" steel on a wood bandsaw, most certainly.

Just watch out for saw dust buildup especially with the oily residue that is common on horizontal metal bandsaws. It will cause the dust to turn into a caked up mess.

 

[Larwyn]

I have a woodworking/leather working shop out back so there are plenty of wood cutting saws there. But when I need to correct the length of one or two 2x4's in the garage I just throw them on the h/v bandsaw and cut them there instead of carrying the wood all the way out to the wood shop and back. This works best when I remember to turn off the flood coolant.....

 

[gus1962]

Thanks for your suggestion Dave. I hope that blade would go through the cut without leaving uneven surface.
Zkling, that is a very good point. I'll be cutting only few so I think it will be a less hassle. I'll make sure the saw will be
thorough cleaned.
Yes, you're right about that Larry. Thank you.

 

[Outlawmws]

I have a woodworking/leather working shop out back so there are plenty of wood cutting saws there. But when I need to correct the length of one or two 2x4's in the garage I just throw them on the h/v bandsaw and cut them there instead of carrying the wood all the way out to the wood shop and back. This works best when I remember to turn off the flood coolant.....

 

[zkling]

This works best when I remember to turn off the flood coolant.....

What type of coolant do you find works best for white pine?

 

[jakemac]

What type of coolant do you find works best for white pine?

Beer.

......... or is it white wine with pine ?

 

[Outlawmws]

What type of coolant do you find works best for white pine?

I'm going to guess turpetine.