Grizzly G1019Z - Manual (Page 28)

-26- Model G1019Z 14" Bandsaw
When cutting curves, simultaneously feed and
turn the stock carefully so that the blade follows
the layout line without being twisted. If a curve is
so abrupt that it is necessary to repeatedly back
up and cut a new kerf, use either a narrower blade
or a blade with more set.
Always make short cuts first, then proceed to the
longer cuts. Relief cuts will also reduce the
chance that the blade will be pinched or twisted.
Relief cuts are cuts made through the waste por-
tion of the workpiece and are stopped at the lay-
out line. As you cut along the layout line, waste
wood is released from the workpiece, alleviating
any pressure on the back of the blade. Relief cuts
also make backing the workpiece out easier, if
needed.
Figure 24 lists blade widths and corre-
sponding minimum radii each blade will cut.
BLADE WIDTH
1 /
8
"
3 /
16
"
1 /
4
"
3 /
8
"
1 /
2
"
5 /
8
"
3 /
4
"
MINIMUM RADII
3 /
16
"
5 /
16
"
5 /
8
"
1 1 /
2
"
2 1 /
2
"
4"
5 1 /
2
"
Figure 24. Minimum circle radius vs. blade size.
Cutting Curves Stacked Cuts
One of the benefits of a bandsaw is its ability to
cut multiple copies of a particular shape by stack-
ing a number of workpieces together.
Before making stacked cuts, it is essential to
ensure that both the table and the blade are prop-
erly adjusted to 90°. Otherwise, any error will be
compounded with each piece cut from the top to
the bottom of the stack.
To complete a stacked cut:
1. Align your pieces from top to bottom to
ensure that each piece has adequate scrap
to provide a clean, unhampered cut.
2. Using brads in the waste portion of each
piece, secure all the pieces together.
3. Lay out the shape you intend to cut on the
face of the top piece.
4. Make relief cuts perpendicular to the outline
of your intended shape in areas where
changes in blade direction could pinch the
blade against the wood.
5. Cut the stack as though you were cutting a
single piece. Follow your layout line with the
blade kerf on the waste side of your line.