I have a Rikon 18″ bandsaw, model 10-345, which I think is one fine machine. While fiddling with it one day, I noticed that the welds for the framework (most noticeably the upper section) were no longer than 1 1/2″ and some are basically little more than tack welds. Some areas where the frames meet aren’t welded at all. I’ve noticed on other saws that they are almost completely welded. Is this of major importance? Should I call for a good welder to fix the situation? Or, if I were to use a blade that requires high tension, should I just afix a turnbuckle to the lifting eye and attach to a beam in my ceiling if I should have a flexing problem?
Hmmmmm? Chris.
Replies
Are continuous welds better? Probably, but you did buy a lot of machine for the money and one of the places they could save some expense was to cut back on the welding. As long as the machine is performing well I wouldn't worry about it.
The frame really doesn't have a lot of strain on it even with a wide blade. A number of other factors, such as the thickness of the steel, the dimensions of the frame, and the heft of the wheel mounts are more critical than the welds.
Also, if you rewelded the frame there would be a lot of paint burned off which would require repainting the entire machine.
John White
Thanks John for your reply, it has helped me understand the dynamics of a bandsaw a little more. I guess I won't be bothered by the welds then. I was just a little concerned how the saw would act if I was to mill down logs or slap a carbide blade on for veneer processing.
I really do like this saw. Thanks again John.
Chris.
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