A few of the possible causes for a bandsaw machine’s inability to cut square depend on the nature of the problem.
- Is the bandsaw level and secure?
- Are the load and discharge conveyors on the same plane as the vise bed?
- Are the saw guide inserts, backup bearings, and thumbscrews all in good condition?
- Are the band wheel and wheel bearings in good or bad condition?
- Is the saw head squarely adjusted to the fixed vise?
- Does the pivot head show wear?
If the saw cut is dished or curved, the cause might be inadequate band tension, excessive feed force, the feed control system may be out of calibration, applying too much feed force, or using a dull blade.
Here are a few more possible causes for out-of-square cuts using a bandsaw machine and their likely solutions.
- Worn or improperly adjusted side guides or guide arms — adjust, repair, or replace
- Blade guides not aligned to the travel of the saw head — an indicator on the side of the blade tests guide alignment
- Excessive feed pressure — increase speed or decrease feed
- Low band tension / machine head loose — check operator’s manual for proper setting
- Saw does not cut square vertically — adjust table so that it is at right angle with blade
- Dull blade — or any number of above listed combinations — check tension and guides, install a new blade if necessary
If after these necessary adjustments are implemented and issues still occur with inaccurate cut — particularly using a rip fence (accessory that helps make even, straight cuts), check the saw band for wear on one side. Wear will cause the work to wander relative to the rip fence guide.
If the blade is to blame, replace with a new one but keep in mind that due to manufacturing and/or sharpening methods, some blades simply tend to want to lead in one direction.
