Kerf refers to the width of the material removed during the cutting process by a cutting tool, such as a band saw blade or mill drill bit. The kerf width depends on factors like blade or tool geometry, cutting speed, and feed rate. In band saws, the kerf is directly related to the thickness of the blade and the set of its teeth. A thinner kerf results in less material waste and reduced cutting force, but may be more susceptible to deflection or binding during the cutting process.