Band versus disc

[glot]

Pro's and Con's of using an industrial metal cutting band saw for slabbing. Diamond blade of course.

[Aussie Sapphire]

If you are doing straight cuts, then a blade saw will generally give better quality cuts.  If you need to cut more intricate shapes (curves, etc), then a band saw is the way to go.  But for straight cutting, the thin bandsaw blades can be a bit flexible and wont do quite as well for those really neat straight edges.

This may be a factor to consider - eg. for flat lapping on an oscillating or vibrating lap, then results will be much quicker when the cuts are very good.  Or for your particular work, it may be less important for consideration.

cheers
Leah

[glot]

I was looking at equipment costs. I can get a band saw that will cut 150 by 150mm for about $600 plus about $150 for a blade. The blades do wear quicker than a circular blade though. With a 1mm or 1.5mm by 25mm or even 50mm band I would hope not too much flexing. As far as I can think, that would be the only negative. Flatness of cut. All input is welcome and taken on board.