Woodworking bandsaw blades come in a variety of widths, tooth designs, materials, and configurations. After you have chosen the right one for your cutting needs and have prepared it for the job, then you’re all set. However, what you have to keep in mind when it comes to using this tool is proper lubrication. Without maintaining adequate lubrication, the blades will experience premature damage and fatigue and when left unattended can cause serious damages to other parts of your band saw machine. So, maintaining proper lubrication is of utmost importance for this kind of operation.
A word of caution though: never use water as a lubricant for your woodworking bandsaw blades. It is not a lubricant in the first place and it can even cause damage to the body of your band saw blade and the material it cuts. Rust formation can occur. Instead, use the right lubricant for the job and there are a number of products that are specifically designed to properly lubricate the blades, bits, and other cutting tools. There are some lubricants that come as an aerosol that employs a dry film technology that properly lubricates and protects all sorts of cutting tools.
In addition, there are also lubricants that come as solid compound cutting bars and sticks that run against the blade to add lubrication. Just see to it that you choose a lubricant that will not stain your wood, is appropriate for your intended application and is compatible for the components of your band saw machine. With proper use and lubrication, it can provide your machine with a longer life while preventing rust and other issues. In fact, it can increase the life of your woodworking bandsaw blades by more than 30% and you can cut any grade lumber without staining them.