Coiling a large bandsaw blade safely and effectively is crucial for storage, transportation, and preventing damage. The technique involves a specific hand movement that allows the blade to naturally form into a compact coil.
The process of coiling a large bandsaw blade relies on a precise hand and blade manipulation to create a secure, compact coil. This method ensures the blade folds neatly upon itself, reducing its footprint and enhancing safety.
The Core Coiling Technique
The fundamental method for coiling a bandsaw blade, as demonstrated, focuses on a specific hand orientation and turning motion to achieve a self-coiling action.
Step-by-Step Coiling:
- Hand Positioning: Begin by positioning your dominant hand (e.g., right hand) "inside out," with your thumb pointing to the right. This unique grip is foundational to initiating the coil.
- Initiating the Turn: While maintaining this hand position, you will turn the blade coil downwards toward the floor. This initial turn starts the folding process of the blade.
- Completing the Coil: As you continue the downward motion, your thumb should come around 360 degrees. This full rotation guides the blade to fold back on "itself," creating a tight, "nice little coil." The blade's tension and memory will assist in forming subsequent coils naturally.
Essential Tips for Success & Safety
Coiling bandsaw blades, especially larger ones, requires caution. Always prioritize safety to prevent injuries from the sharp edges.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always use heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from cuts. Safety glasses are also recommended.
- Clear Work Area: Ensure you have ample space around you to avoid hitting objects or getting tangled with the blade during the coiling process.
- Maintain Control: Keep a firm, but not overly tight, grip on the blade. Allow the blade's natural spring tension to assist the coiling, rather than fighting against it.
- Blade Tension: Bandsaw blades are under tension; respect this and release them carefully. The coiling technique utilizes this tension to form the loops.
- Multiple Coils: Larger blades may require multiple loops or "coils" to be fully contained. Once the initial technique is mastered, subsequent coils will often form naturally.
- Securing the Coil: After coiling, secure the blade with wire, a zip tie, or a specialized blade wrap to prevent it from springing open unexpectedly.
By following these steps and safety guidelines, you can effectively and safely coil even large bandsaw blades for convenient storage and transport.
