Hi, Mr. B here! I'm going to talk you through how to select the correct TPI for for your next project.
Selecting the appropriate Teeth Per Inch (TPI) for a bandsaw blade depends on the type of material you're cutting, including its thickness, and the desired cutting quality. TPI refers to the number of teeth on the blade per inch (or 25.4mm depending on how you work) of its length. Here's how you can choose the right TPI for your bandsaw blade:
General Rule
For softer materials like wood and plastics: Choose a lower TPI blade (e.g., 3-6 TPI). This helps prevent clogging and provides a smoother cut.
For harder materials like metal: Opt for a higher TPI blade (e.g., 14-32 TPI) for finer cuts and better control.
This is general guidance and you would ideally use the below TPI charts to determine the correct TPI for your project.
Material Thickness
Thicker materials require fewer teeth. When cutting thick materials, choose a lower TPI blade for efficient chip removal and faster cutting.
Trial and Error
It's often best to experiment with different TPI blades to find the one that suits your specific cutting needs. If possible, have a variety of blades on hand to switch depending on the task.
Consider Blade Width
The blade width is measured from the tips of the teeth to the back edge of the blade. For contour sawing, the blade should be as wide as the machine permits, but still narrow enough so that it can cut the desired shape (radius).
"For straight cutting, the blade should be as wide as the machine permits." - Mr. B, Bandsaw Maverick
In Summary
Remember that selecting the right TPI is not the only consideration. Blade material, thickness, tension, and other factors also play a role in achieving the best results. If you're unsure about any of these aspects, check out our other guides:
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