A riser for a band saw is a simple extension designed to increase the cutting height capacity of the machine. It effectively expands the distance between the band saw's table and its upper blade guide, allowing users to cut thicker materials.
Understanding the Riser Block
A riser block is essentially a simple extension that fits between the base and arm of a typical cast-iron bandsaw frame. By inserting this block, the upper part of the band saw's frame is lifted, thereby increasing the maximum cutting height. This modification is particularly useful for specific woodworking tasks.
Key Functions and Benefits
The primary purpose of installing a riser block on a band saw is adding resawing capacity. Resawing is the process of cutting a thick piece of wood into thinner slices, often to create veneers, book-matched panels, or more manageable lumber from larger stock. Without a riser block, many standard band saws have limited cutting height, making it impossible to resaw larger boards.
- Increased Cutting Height: The most direct benefit is the ability to cut significantly thicker workpieces.
- Enhanced Resawing Capabilities: Transforms a standard band saw into a more versatile machine capable of handling larger resawing projects.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade: Often a more economical solution than purchasing a new, larger band saw with greater resaw capacity.
Compatibility and Installation
While riser blocks offer a valuable upgrade, it's important to note that not all saws accept a riser block. Many popular 14" models, however, are designed to accommodate them.
To determine if your band saw is compatible, you should:
- Check your owner's manual: The manual typically specifies whether your model can accept a riser block and what type.
- Ask your dealer: A specialized dealer for woodworking equipment can provide information on compatible accessories for your specific band saw model.
Installation generally involves unbolting the upper frame from the lower base, inserting the riser block between the two sections, and then re-bolting the components together with longer bolts provided with the riser kit. This process usually requires re-tensioning and adjusting the blade guides to accommodate the increased height.
Practical Applications
A band saw equipped with a riser block becomes an invaluable tool for woodworkers who frequently work with larger stock.
- Creating Veneers: Slice thin sheets of exotic or figured wood for decorative purposes.
- Bookmatching Lumber: Cut a thick board in half and then open it like a book to create symmetrical grain patterns.
- Milling Lumber: Reduce larger rough-sawn lumber into more manageable dimensions.
- Custom Panels: Produce custom-sized lumber for tabletops, cabinet doors, or other furniture components from larger, raw stock.
A band saw riser block is a simple yet powerful modification that significantly expands the capabilities of a standard band saw, especially for tasks requiring increased cutting height like resawing.
