View source for Milwaukee 6232 Portable Band Saw

{{ToolBox
|tool_title         = Portable Band Saw
|tool_subtitle      = Milwaukee 6232-20 with Portaband Pro
|image              = PortableBandSaw-hero.jpeg
|caption            = Milwaukee 6232-20 with Portaband Pro
|make               = Milwaukee Tool
|model              = 6232-20 Deep Cut Variable Speed Bandsaw
|serial             = Unknown
|manufacturer_specs = [https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Power-Tools/Metalworking/Band-Saws/6232-20?bvstate=pg:2/ct:r Link to Website]
|manual             = [https://documents.milwaukeetool.com/58-14-6232d2.pdf Operators Manual]
|location           = Metal Shop
|tool_categories    = [[Category:Metal]]
|rubric             = Ask the shop lead
|training           = [https://www.artisansasylum.com/tool-testing Sign up here]
|testing            = [https://www.artisansasylum.com/tool-testing Sign up here]
}}
{| class="wikitable"
!| Safety First <br /> Hazard Analysis
|-
| 
# Injury from blade snapping, or workpiece breakage. '''Eye Protection Required'''
# Injury from sharp blade.
# Cuts / scrapes from metal chips and sharp cut edges of workpiece.
# Prevent drawn-in injuries. No loose clothing or gloves.
|}
{| class="wikitable"
!| Use For
!| Do Not Use For
|-
| 
* Mild Steel
* Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Titanium, Brass, Bronze, Copper
| 
* Hardened Steel
* Thin sheet/ plate
* Angle, Tube, or other stock that is too thin-walled to provide adequate blade engagement. '''Use the 3 TOOTH RULE'''
|}

== Operation Notes ==

* A Milwaukee Portable Deep Cut Band Saw is housed in an orange Portaband Pro (EZ-CUT Jig) to improve ease of use as a horizontal band saw.
* Check that your workpiece matches the machine’s blade.  For safety and for blade life, it’s important to keep at least three teeth in the cut.
* Cut slowly to avoid breakage and personal injury. Do not force the tool.
* A small amount of cutting oil or cutting fluid will improve cut quality and extend the life of the blade.
* New blades are stored in the shop’s supply cabinet.

== Basic Operation Instructions ==
# '''Perform a safety check prior to use.'''
#* Check blade before cutting for dull or missing teeth. 
#* Check for misaligned parts, and for moving parts that might bind.
#* Gas spring can be unhooked when checking alignment.
#* Metal cuts best at slow speeds. The band saw’s speed dial should be set to “1.”
# '''Plug in, unhook the locking chain, and lift the handle to raise the blade.'''
# '''Insert workpiece against the fence and secure with a clamp. If the workpiece is long enough and can be safely held by hand, hold securely.'''
#* Adjustable fence for 30º to 90º cuts.
#* Cut should start on a surface where the greatest number of teeth will be in contact with the workpiece. Keep the Three 3 Tooth Rule in mind.
#* Keep hands away from the cutting area and the blade.
#* Be creative with clamps found in the shop.
#* Apply a small amount of cutting oil or cutting fluid.
# '''Be familiar with the operation of the Trigger Arm and Trigger Arm Release.'''
#* The Trigger Arm flips the band saw’s power switch to the “on” position and can lock it there. Use the Trigger Arm Release for quick release.
# '''Flip the Trigger Arm to start blade rotation, then pull down on the handle to lower the blade and perform the cut.'''
#* Do not start saw while blade is touching the workpiece. Allow to reach full speed before performing the cut.
#* Do not bear down while cutting. The weight of the tool will supply adequate pressure for the fastest cut.
# '''When done, clean the machine and workspace of debris, reattach the locking chain, and return the machine to the storage shelves.'''

== On Blades and Blade Selection ==
* Blades purchased by the metal shop are for cutting metal, and therefore have a fine pitch.
* Blades are available in several “pitches” (number of teeth per inch) Blade selection depends on the size, shape, and type of material to be cut.
* This band saw requires a blade .020" thick, 1/2" wide, and 44-7/8" long.

== Changing Blades ==
# '''UNPLUG THE TOOL''' before removing or installing blades.
# '''Release the blade tension.''' Turn the tension lock handle 180° counterclockwise.
# '''Remove the old blade.''' Remove from Blade Wheels first, then from Roller Guides. 
# '''Install the new blade.''' Place blade on the Blade Wheels, then insert into the Roller Guides. Check to see that the blade lies freely within the guard channel.<br />''NOTE: Pay attention to the direction of the blade teeth, which need to bite into the cut. If necessary, flip the blade right side out prior to installation.''
# Turn the tension lock handle 180° clockwise to lock the position. This will secure the blade on the Blade Wheels. '''BE SURE THAT THE BLADE IS PROPERLY SEATED ON THE BLADE WHEELS BEFORE STARTING THE CUT.'''