Downfeed

On most band saws, you adjust downfeed by setting the blade guide height and feed control knob or lever. First, raise the guide above the material, start the saw, then lower the guide until it lightly contacts the work. Use the feed rate control to set how fast the guide drops. Always start with a conservative rate, observe chip size and cut quality, then increase downfeed in small increments until you hit the desired finish and feed rate.

Optimal downfeed depends on material hardness, thickness, tool geometry, and machine power. Harder or thicker stock needs a slower downfeed to avoid overloading the cutter. Softer materials can handle a higher downfeed for faster removal. Blade or cutter design—like tooth pitch or insert type—also shapes the best feed rate. Finally, ensure your machine’s horsepower and rigidity match the downfeed you plan to use to prevent chatter and tool stress.

Downfeed sets the chip thickness per pass. If you push downfeed too fast, you increase chip load and cause more friction, which heats and dulls the tool faster. That also raises the risk of poor surface finish or burns. A slower downfeed yields thinner chips, cooler cutting, and finer finishes, but slows production. By finding the right downfeed rate, you extend tool life and achieve the surface quality you need without needless tool changes.