Band-sawing machine and steel spring component

Band-sawing machine and steel spring component, by James Barr, Kilmarnock, Scotland

The bandsaw was one of the main innovations in woodworking technology during the nineteenth century, introducing an element of mechanisation, an increase in possible size, working speed and output, and an opening up of new capabilities, particularly in terms of cutting complex designs for decorative purposes, use in furniture, etc.

Most followed a similar pattern: Two large guide wheels, mounted one above the other, with the saw-band stretched across both of them vertically, and passing through a (usually adjustable) bed to allow cutting either at 90 degrees to the band or at different angles. There would be a guide to keep the band from too much lateral movement (which would affect the accuracy of the cut), and a means of tensioning it.

The machine framing for bandsaws had to be robust, and comprised variations on a theme. Some, like that made by Thomas Robinson of Rochdale, had a flat machine bed with largely round-section framing above. This may have been a later design variant. Others (by Barr of Kilmarnock or Baxendale & Co of Manchester) had a more conventional and pronounced single-piece frame of cast iron, with webs cast in for strength where needed and cut-outs to save weight, mainly down below bed-level, towards the machine’s base. All tried to give as much clearance around the cutting band as possible, to allow a larger work-piece to easily be manoeuvred. This requirement led to interesting shapes and proportions to bandsaws, as companies competed to have the largest clearance possible while also keeping weight and cost down. In this regard the (later) Robinson design was excellent, with the band-wheels and cutting bed on two entirely separate plinths. It also led overall proportions to be ‘squarer’ as opposed to more vertical and rectangular, giving the saws a pleasing appearance with a good historical provenance. Both Barr and Robinson machines move in this direction, but it is caried to its fullest extent with the Baxendale machine.