80-Inch Metal Cutting Band Saw Blades: Dimensions, Uses, and Selection Rules
You need an 80-inch metal cutting band saw blade and you want to know what to buy. The 80-inch blade is used by several horizontal metal cutting band saws. You need to know which saws use this length, what blade material to choose, and how to select the right TPI for metal cutting.
An 80-inch metal cutting band saw blade is a blade measuring 80 inches in circumference, designed for cutting metal. It is used by several horizontal metal cutting band saws, including some 5x8 and 7x12 models. Metal cutting requires bi-metal or carbide-tipped blades with specific TPI and speed settings.
Compatible Saw Models
Saws Using 80-Inch Blades
| Saw Brand | Common Models | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craftsman | Some horizontal metal saws | Horizontal metal | Verify by model |
| Central Machinery | Some horizontal saws | Horizontal metal | Verify by model |
| Wen | Some horizontal saws | Horizontal metal | Verify by model |
| Grizzly | Some horizontal saws | Horizontal metal | Verify by model |
| Various import saws | 5x8, 7x12 horizontal | Horizontal metal | Common on import saws |
How to Verify Your Blade Length
- Check the saw manual.
- Measure the old blade circumference.
- Contact the saw manufacturer with the model number.
Important: Do not guess the blade length. Some 7x12 saws use 80-inch blades while others use 93-1/2 inch or other lengths. Always verify before ordering.
Blade Material
Bi-Metal M42
The standard for metal cutting.
Hardness: 67 to 69 HRC. Best for: Mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, cast iron. Cost: 20 to 40 dollars. Benefits: 2 to 5 times longer blade life than carbon steel. Resists heat damage.
Bi-Metal M51
Harder edge for tough materials.
Hardness: 69 to 70 HRC. Best for: Stainless steel, tool steel, hard alloys. Cost: 25 to 50 dollars.
Carbide-Tipped
The longest lasting option.
Hardness: 70+ HRC. Best for: Production cutting, abrasive materials. Cost: 50 to 150 dollars. Benefits: 5 to 10 times longer life than bi-metal.
Carbon Steel
Not recommended for metal cutting.
Hardness: 62 to 65 HRC. Limitations: Softens at high temperature. Will dull quickly when cutting steel.
TPI Selection
By Material and Thickness
| TPI | Best For | Material Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 6 to 8 TPI | Thick solid bar | 1 to 4 inches |
| 10 TPI | General metal cutting | 1/4 to 2 inches |
| 14 TPI | Medium thickness | 1/8 to 1 inch |
| 18 TPI | Thin material, sheet | Under 1/4 inch |
| 10/14 variable pitch | Mixed thicknesses | All |
Rule of Thumb
At least 3 teeth should be in the material at all times. Too few teeth produces rough cuts and can damage the blade. Too many teeth produces slow cutting and blade loading.
Tooth Profiles
Standard Tooth (0 Degree Rake)
Good balance of cutting speed and surface finish. The most common profile for general metal cutting.
Hook Tooth (Positive Rake)
Cuts aggressively. Best for thick stock and solid bar. The positive rake pulls the blade through the material.
Variable Pitch (Alternating Teeth)
Reduces vibration and handles mixed thicknesses. Produces smoother cuts and less noise.
Speed Settings
Recommended Blade Speeds for Metal Cutting
| Material | Speed (FPM) |
|---|---|
| Mild steel (thick) | 60 to 100 |
| Mild steel (medium) | 100 to 200 |
| Mild steel (thin) | 200 to 300 |
| Stainless steel | 60 to 100 |
| Aluminum | 200 to 400 |
| Brass and copper | 100 to 200 |
| Cast iron | 80 to 150 |
How to Set the Speed
Step pulley: Change the belt position on the pulleys. Variable speed (mechanical): Adjust the dial. Variable speed (hydraulic): Adjust the hydraulic speed control.
Coolant
Why Coolant Is Essential for Metal Cutting
- Extends blade life by reducing heat.
- Improves cut quality by producing smoother cuts.
- Clears chips from the cut, preventing chip loading.
- Prevents work hardening of stainless steel.
Coolant Types
Cutting fluid: Formulated for metal cutting. Water-soluble oil: Mixed with water. Common in shop use. Synthetic coolant: Water-based, no oil. Cleaner.
Blade Break-In
New bi-metal blades need a break-in period. Run the first 10 to 20 cuts at half feed pressure. This lets the tooth tips wear evenly and prevents chipping. Skipping break-in can reduce blade life by 30 to 50 percent.
Where to Buy 80-Inch Metal Cutting Blades
LENOX: Bi-metal and carbide-tipped blades. Starrett: Bi-metal blades. Olson Saw: Budget bi-metal blades. Amazon: Various brands and specifications. Industrial supply: MSC, Grainger, McMaster-Carr.
FAQ
What saws use an 80-inch metal cutting band saw blade?
Several horizontal metal cutting band saws, including some 5x8 and 7x12 models from Craftsman, Central Machinery, Wen, Grizzly, and various import brands. Always verify the blade length before ordering.
What TPI should I use for an 80-inch metal cutting blade?
6 to 8 TPI for thick solid bar. 10 TPI for general metal cutting. 14 TPI for medium thickness. 18 TPI for thin material. 10/14 variable pitch for mixed thicknesses.
What material should I choose for an 80-inch metal cutting blade?
Bi-metal M42 for general metal cutting (20 to 40 dollars). Bi-metal M51 for tough materials like stainless steel (25 to 50 dollars). Carbide-tipped for production cutting (50 to 150 dollars). Do not use carbon steel for metal cutting.
References
- LENOX Tools. “80-Inch Metal Cutting Blade Guide.” LENOX Industrial Division.
- Starrett. “Bi-Metal Blade Specifications.” L.S. Starrett Company.
- Practical Machinist. “Horizontal Band Saw Blade Selection.” practicalmachinist.com.
- Modern Machine Shop. “Band Saw Cutting Speeds and Feeds.” Gardner Business Media.
- Olson Saw. “Metal Cutting Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
