What is the actual blade tension on a bandsaw sawmill?

Timberking recommends 1,100 pis on the gauge of the sawmill. My testing shows that equates to ~15,000 psi on the blade.

Most blade manufacturers recommend 15,000 psi to 20,000 psi for a common carbon-steel blade.

So we are on the conservative side of tension on the blade.

The next video talking about blade tension will show what that equates to on other sawmills.

[okanagansawmill]

I have the same tension meter, I don't use it often but its nice to have as I use different blades and they all have different specifications. look forward to the next video.

[toddwheeler]

The reading outcome of this type of instrument is going to be different based on blade width, steel type and thickness using a constant pressure gage reading, IE 1100lbs. It is measuring the stretch of the band. Measure a 1.25 x .045 vs a 1.25 x .055 and your gage reading will be different.

[slhasebroock]

Great video! I have the Starett version of this tool. They recommend a little preload on the gauge. So, after you set the fixed side, just move the variable side of the gauge to move the needle just a bit then lock down and zero out. Just FYI.

[thekiltedsawyer]

Looking forward to adding more information and more testing ❤

[quarlow]

As long as you get a consistent tension and your mill works good then does it really matter if its 12, 000 or 20, 000?

[floydbrennan]

Awesome video that's very interesting

[bwillan]

When comparing blade tension guages between sawmill makers, it is importage to consider the diameter of the hydraulic cylinder that is applying the pressure. If they are different sizes, but yield the same blade psi with your tension tool, then we know something else is causing the variance.

[leonsmith]

Great info. Thanks. But how did y'all do at the craft fair?

[jimbauer]

Don't need that high dollar gauge just clamp clipers on blade at 5 inch spread and stretch blade .002

[kenashton]

Good info but what is the controversial part?