Axminster Bandsaw

An Axminster SBW4300B bandsaw.

Essential Information

The manual for this machine can be found here.

You will be expected to demonstrate the following competencies before gaining RFID access to this machine:

Understand how the electronic brake operates and the need to let it do its thing after hitting stop.
Have an appreciation for appropriate (goggles, hearing protection) and inappropriate (gloves) PPE when using the bandsaw.
Know how to move the fence and change its orientation.
Understand how to adjust the blade guides and the importance of not having them higher than necessary.
Know how to stand when using the bandsaw (i.e. not leaning into it).
Know to never be pushing material with your hand in line with the blade - always to the side, use a push stick etc.
Understand appropriate materials to cut on the bandsaw - and inappropriate ones. Appreciate how to handle different materials (e.g. wear a mask for MDF and other dusty things).
Know the appropriate types of cut which can be made on the bandsaw (OK for reasonably thick, reasonably long cuts, bad for tight corners - use the scroll saw).
Understand the need to keep the blade tensioned, and know how to adjust the tension.
Understand how and why to use the cross-cut sled (prevents binding on the fence when cross-cutting).
Know to not start/stop the machine with the workpiece in contact with the blade.
Understand how to cut thin materials - use a sacrificial board below to prevent tear-out.
Know how to use dust/chip extraction when necessary.