Slit saw problems

[John Rudd]

Should a slit saw have a continuous cut or should it be interrupted? As in the blade appears to be running off centre.

Reason I ask is, I have an el- cheapo blade holder ( I also made another from EN1 stock in my lathe) and an MT3 slit saw arbor from RDG....Now both (all 3 in fact) arbors (arbours) when loaded with a slit saw do not make a continuous cut...I have tried various blades of differing diameters with no change how they cut........

Am I doing something wrong or do I look elsewhere for a problem?

[bogstandard]

John,

That is a very common occurance, and nothing to worry about.

If you are going to critical depth, have the saw rotating while you touch on. That will ensure you are setting it up at it's maximum stroke, so you will not go too deep.

It bet it sounds awful, but it is most probably only running out by a couple of thou.


Bogs

[John Rudd]

Bogs,

Yes it doesnt sound right, but surely the wear on the blade isnt going to be uniform? or isnt that an issue?


( Can you tell I'm used to working with wood softer material? )

[Bernd]

John,

That is common for slitting saws. Guy Lautuard has quite a write up in his Bedside Reader about slitting saws. Like Bog's says it's only  few  thousands nothing to worry about.

Bernd

[sbwhart]

Ground up quite a few slitting saws in my time, and yes its common to get them running out slightly, the wheels you use for cutter grinding are quite soft to avoid burning, and what happens is the wheel wears down as you go round the saw hence the run out.

Have fun

Stew

[John Rudd]

Thanks for the advice guys....I'll try not to worry anymore...