Metal cutting on bandsaw?

[Harvey Crouch]

Is there any reason that I can't put a metal cutting blade on a standard bandsaw and cut thin metal?

[Dave Sweeney]

I wouldn't do it unless your bandsaw has a way that you can change the speed. Metal cutting bandsaws generally run at a much slower speed than those made for sawing wood.

[Bruce Page]

Works fine for non-ferrous metals.
I cut a lot of aluminum and brass on my old 14" Delta using a regular wood cutting skip tooth blade. Other than the mess, it worked just fine.

[Joe Scharle]

Aluminum, brass and plastic are OK. And for some reason I don't know, if you put clear packing tape over the cut line the blade runs cooler. Really obvious when cutting plastics. Eliminates re-welding behind the blade.

[Howard Acheson]

You can cut non-ferrous metals just fine using a high tooth count blade. You can cut ferrous metals if you can slow down the speed of the blade.

[Harvey Crouch]

Thanks for the responses. I knew I could count on this forum for good advise. Actually it is my wife who wants to cut (on my bandsaw) some sheet copper for jewelry. Based on the replies, I will let her give it a try.

[Jason Beam]

Make sure you close up the throat so the sheet stuff is VERY well supported right there at the point the blade contacts - it can pull down pretty hard and if your sheet isn't rigid enough, there could be some nasty surprises!

[Rob Hermann]

If it is very thin stock it sometimes helps to cut it on a peice of plywood or other scrap for better support right at the cut too. Have fun and be careful.

[John McClanahan]

The copper may want to clog the gullets of the blade. If it does, it will make a lousy cut. A blade brush would help. A plywood backer board under the copper may help clean off the blade.

John

[mickey cassiba]

Also make sure you clean the tires. Metal chips and plastic/rubber tires make for a bumpy ride...will also void warranty if you still have one.
Mickey