What distinguishes carbide blades from other types of band saw blades?

Carbide blades are distinguished from other types of band saw blades primarily by having carbide tooth tips welded to the saw teeth. This feature enhances the durability and cutting performance of the blades. Carbide is a much harder material than the high-speed steel (HSS) commonly used for other bandsaw blades, which allows carbide-tipped blades to maintain a sharper edge for a longer period and withstand higher temperatures and stresses during cutting operations.

The unique construction with carbide tips enables these blades to effectively cut through tougher materials and provides better resistance to wear, especially in applications involving abrasive or hard materials. This characteristic makes them suitable for industrial settings where longevity and efficiency are crucial.

In contrast, other bandsaw blades may be forged solely from steel, which limits their ability to retain sharpness over extended use. Additionally, carbide blades tend to be more expensive compared to blades made entirely out of steel or other common materials due to the cost of the carbide itself and the manufacturing processes involved. They are also not specifically designed for cutting irregular shapes; rather, they are more focused on cutting efficiency and material type.