Bandsaw tires play a crucial role in metal and woodcutting manufacturing. These soft bands cushion the bandsaw's wheel and blade, creating a grip to help with control, securing the components, and preventing unnecessary wear. It's essential to ensure they are in quality condition before using them for safety and production reasons. Worn tires can easily snap and make you lose control over the blade, causing numerous safety hazards. Here are four signs that you need to replace your bandsaw tire.
Rattling Sounds
One of the most common telltale signs that a bandsaw tire needs replacing is the sound the saw makes. If you hear rattling noises from the machine as it starts up, your tire is probably due for a change. Since the tires act as a cushion between the blade and the wheel, less friction and collision between the two components occur, but that barrier disappears as the tires wear down. Friction between the saw parts creates sounds as the metal from the blade and wheel clash. Rubber tires easily crumble, causing the saw to vibrate and rattle as rubber pieces obstruct the wheel's motion.
Wobbly Blade
Since the tires sit in between the wheel and blade, securing them in place, the tire helps prop the edge into a precise alignment. As the tires begin to wear, the saw's precision falters, causing the saw's knife to wobble. Not only does a wobbly blade indicate a tire replacement, but it could also imply other repercussions like faulty tire insertion.
Cracks in the Tires
Rubber tires crumble after intense, continuous use. The wear and tear on the rubber cause the material to break apart, hindering a person's use of the saw. Rubber tires also endure dry rot after sitting in warm environments for a certain period, requiring frequent replacements. Most manufacturers opt for urethane bandsaw tires since they don't crack and possess more durability.
Blade Dents
Markings on the bandsaw tire are standard and don't necessarily call for replacements, but they are worth noting. Since the blade sits on top of the tires, when the edges start to sink into the bands, it indicates the beginning of the tire's degradation and highlights the erosion rate. Sometimes the dents are minor impressions into the tire's material and do not require immediate attention. Also, keep in mind that some markings on the tire could simply mean the tire is due for a cleaning session.
Since the bandsaw tires play an essential role in the bandsaw's operation, continuously using tires that need replacement can create various production and safety issues within the manufacturing process. With the help of out team here at Texas Belting and Supply, you can reduce the number of tire replacements and long-term costs by equipping the best bandsaw tires for your machines. Keeping an eye out on these four signs that you need to replace your bandsaw tire ensures smooth metal and woodcutting procedures.