Coolants vs. lubricants.

arboristjames · Jul 28, 2015

Hi,
I am a new PIA here. Is this an appropriate forum to discuss such matters as band saws? If so, what is the most critical function of a fluid on a bandsaw blade, lube it or cool it? Thanks, James

CalG · Jul 28, 2015

Yes! Both, don't try to separate the functions.

Use a stuff mix of any good soluble oil. Your blade will love you for it.

4570Man · Jul 28, 2015

Mostly to cool it, but the best way to cool something is to reduce friction. Most coolants now days are water based. I don't like coolant because it makes a mess. A few squirts of oil is usually sufficient.

Chopperhed · Jul 28, 2015

CalG said:
Yes! Both, don't try to separate the functions.

Use a stuff mix of any good soluble oil. Your blade will love you for it.

Coolant serves both functions equally, to the point that no distinction is made. Every material is different, and every material uses coolant for different reasons. However, a good coolant serves both purposes equally.

The more critical component of any cutting operation is Feed and Speed.
And don't forget the three tooth rule.

arboristjames · Jul 28, 2015

Well, thanks for the rapid responses, any recommendations on sources, costs etc?

On a totally different track, I noticed some folks in here have a personal quote at the end of their messages. How do I do that? Thanks, James.

SPYDERLK · Jul 29, 2015

arboristjames said:
Well, thanks for the rapid responses, any recommendations on sources, costs etc?

On a totally different track, I noticed some folks in here have a personal quote at the end of their messages. How do I do that? Thanks, James.

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arboristjames · Aug 3, 2015

Well thanks for all the helpful info on the coolant/ lubrication issue, one of the local machine shops was happy to sell me a couple of gallons which should keep me going for a good while. It seems that the blade that was on the saw is dull and needs replacing, do any of you guys know of a good source for replacement bands? Seems a lot of suppliers want more for shipping than the cost of the blade itself!!!!

Thanks, James.