Cutting Non-Ferrous Metal

[dusty]

I know that some band saw blades can be used to cut non-ferrous metal. What I don't know is how to look at a blade and tell if it is appropriate for use cutting non-ferrous metal.

This is a good reason for not storing used blades on a wall hook in the shop. I have long ago discarded the containers that would have answered my questions here.

I will not do this in the future or I will otherwise identify these blades.

[JPG]

I know that some band saw blades can be used to cut non-ferrous metal. What I don't know is how to look at a blade and tell if it is appropriate for use cutting non-ferrous metal.

This is a good reason for not storing used blades on a wall hook in the shop. I have long ago discarded the containers that would have answered my questions here.

I will not do this in the future or I will otherwise identify these blades.

Small teeth. No rake. Small set. Like a hacksaw blade(without the ripples).

[davebodner]

And don't do like I did and install the blade inside-out (teeth pointed up instead of down). Made such a racket while cutting aluminum, and it took forever.

[efmaron]

Fine tooth blades are used for metals, ferrous or non ferrous.For aluminum you can use less tpi, than for other metals because it is a soft gummy metal that needs less teeth for the chips to clear. If you are sawing thin sheet aluminum use more tpi. All band saw blades should have a set.

PS: If you have fine tooth blades they are good for metal, the less tpi is for soft material.

[shipwright]

Most wood type blades work well on aluminium and if you use a little oil or bees' wax you won't have to keep stopping to pick the aluminium out of the teeth. Bees' wax also works on grinder discs with aluminium.

Paul M

[Gene Howe]

Bi metal, 4tpi, min. set.
I buy mine from Suffolk.
Works on mesquite, too.