Saw Saw Security First of all
If you are planning to buy a band saw or you already work with one, but you want to have a clearer idea about how to handle it safely while respecting all the regulations, in this space you will be able to find out which ones are ruled by experts in order to be able to use the tool while minimizing the risk of accidents.
band saw
Before you can use a band saw correctly, you must first know what it is and what its most important parts are, so that you can handle it without problems and avoid touching dangerous areas.
A band saw is a tool used in construction, since, depending on its capacity, it may be able to cut wood, plastic, metal and other materials. Its usefulness is quite wide thanks to the fact that it allows you to modify large pieces to adopt particular shapes and even curve corners and round structures.
This machine makes use of a metal band with teeth similar to those of a handsaw, but it is thin in comparison and much longer. One of its most notable qualities is that this metal band is capable of turning very quickly, due to the fact that it is integrated into a mechanism with two parallel wheels powered by a motor.
On the other hand, band saws also need clamping elements to keep the piece firm when cutting. In this case, you will find clamps and guides that will help you make a precise cut, so that everything fits in place when you assemble it.
In addition, there are large capacity models that, due to the type of materials with which they work, can have hydraulic pumps to add liquid lubrication during the cutting process, which can also act as a coolant to prevent overheating of the band and the piece.
Band Saw Hazards
You should know that, when using a band saw, there are latent risks to your integrity. One of them is the possible breakage of the cutting band due to excessive tension, overheating, wear or poor quality in the welds.
Care must also be taken with the electrical connections of the equipment. Make sure it is not being overcharged due to motor power, as well as respect the installation of the ground wire to avoid electric shock.
In addition to this, another common hazard when using a band saw is particles that can be thrown from the piece you are cutting. This is dangerous because they can reach your eyes and cause damage to the cornea, either by presenting sharp edges or their speed. For this reason, it is best to use the proper equipment to protect the eyes for each occasion of use.
Safe use of the band saw
When you are going to use the best band saw to cut pieces of any kind, you must follow several safety regulations to avoid getting hurt or causing an accident due to the capacity of some models, especially if you need to work with small or loaded pieces. of details. If you are interested in knowing the basic regulations to safely use a band saw, we invite you to read the following list:
1. Band saw protection
One of the first aspects to take care of in a band saw is to keep the cutting band covered and only expose the area that is going to be used in order to minimize the risk of accidental cuts. Also, when the equipment is not in use, it is advisable to install a band cover.
Another recommendation regarding the saw itself is to have a good lighting system available in case the one integrated into the equipment is not sufficient. This will help you have better control of your movements and those of the piece.
2. Necessary equipment for protection
Because a band saw is often used manually, some safety features must be in place to protect the integrity of the user.
A pair of mechanical protection gloves will be enough to keep your hands safe from accidental contact with the belt in motion. You’ll also need safety glasses that are clear so they don’t block your vision while using the saw.
On the other hand, the use of safety footwear is recommended to keep your feet safe from any part or material that may fall, as well as earplugs due to the sound produced by the engine, which is considerably loud.
And if you are going to cut pieces that give off particles, you can use a mask with a filtration system that will be in charge of blocking the passage of these towards your body.
3. Safe use regulations
To properly set up your band saw, you should first check the tension on the cutting band and turn on the power to make sure the band is moving in the proper direction. Then it is advisable to check that the cut piece does not exceed the recommended size nor is it made of a material that is not compatible with the machine.
When you are sure of these parameters, turn off the saw to be able to accommodate the piece between the clamps respecting the guides and fasteners. Some users advise never handling the piece with your hands, no matter how small it is.
4. Regular maintenance
Finally, in order to keep a band saw safe to use, you will need to perform regular maintenance sessions to ensure trouble-free performance.
In case you use the saw daily, it is advisable to vacuum and brush all the chips and debris that may have been left after using the equipment, including the nooks and crannies to avoid accumulation. The same applies to the work area surrounding the machine.
In addition to this, it is recommended to check the level of wear of the cutting band in case it needs to be replaced, as well as checking the amount of coolant or lubricant that has been used in case you need to fill the band saw tank again..
