Changes

=== Background ===

=== Background ===

The metal cutting bandsaws currently in the shop (Johnson and Harbor Freight) are horizontal bandsaws, which are designed for cutting long stock into smaller pieces. For cutting metal plate into smaller pieces and for cutting curves, we need a vertical bandsaw. The Delta 14" vertical bandsaw in the wood shop is not suitable for cutting many types of metal because the blade speed is much too fast. Some members have attempted to use the Harbor Freight horizontal saw in the vertical position. This is a frustrating and potentially dangerous activity because the table is very small, the saw doesn't lock when vertical, and the table too low and in an awkward position.

The metal cutting bandsaws currently in the shop (Johnson and Harbor Freight) are horizontal bandsaws, which are designed for cutting long stock into smaller pieces. For cutting metal plate into smaller pieces and for cutting curves, we need a vertical bandsaw. The Delta 14" vertical bandsaw in the wood shop is not suitable for cutting many types of metal because the blade speed is much too fast. Some members have attempted to use the Harbor Freight horizontal saw in the vertical position. This is a frustrating and potentially dangerous activity because the table is very small, the saw doesn't lock when vertical, and the table too low and in an awkward position.

The cold metals area at PS1 is currently well stocked to work with materials that are already cut down to small sizes (sizes less than about 6"x6"). However, most bought materials do not come in sizes this small. The natural solution to this problem is for PS1 to invest in a vertical bandsaw.

The cold metals area at PS1 is currently well stocked to work with materials that are already cut down to small sizes (sizes less than about 6"x6"). However, most bought materials do not come in sizes this small. The natural solution to this problem is for PS1 to invest in a vertical bandsaw.

Candidate Model Examples:

Candidate Model Examples:

Powermatic 143 - A 14" combination wood/metal saw with 2 speed gearbox and 4 speed belt drive. Compact and very strong for a 14" saw.

Powermatic 143 - A 14" combination wood/metal saw with 2 speed gearbox and 4 speed belt drive. Compact and very strong for a 14" saw.  

DoAll - A shop classic. They almost always have built-in blade welders, which we could use for all the bandsaws in the shop. Often 3000 pounds plus (too big), but smaller saws are available.  

DoAll - A shop classic. They almost always have built-in blade welders, which we could use for all the bandsaws in the shop. Often 3000 pounds plus (too big), but smaller saws are available.  

Grob NS-18 1000 pounds, 18", 5 or 10 speed, depending on vintage.

Grob NS-18 1000 pounds, 18", 5 or 10 speed, depending on vintage.

Roll-In - Gravity fed sliding table. These can used as profiling or cutoff saws. Current (new) models: http://www.rollinsaw.com/band_saws/EF1459_vertical_band_saw.htm

Roll-In - Gravity fed sliding table. These can used as profiling or cutoff saws. Current (new) models: http://www.rollinsaw.com/band_saws/EF1459_vertical_band_saw.htm