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General Category => General Scroll Saw Talk => Topic started by: math2010 on January 01, 2012, 11:01:47 pm

Title: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: math2010 on January 01, 2012, 11:01:47 pm

With your experience, which kind of blade do you suggest to use to cut purpleheart 3/4 inch ?
Because I think it's a really hard wood to cut...

I'm using Flying Dutchman Blades.

Thanks!

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: dgman on January 01, 2012, 11:17:35 pm

Depending on the intricacy of the pattern, I would use a FD UR 5 or 7. I would also use clear packing tape on top of the pattern. If it wants to burn, I would also put tape on the bottom.
Good luck!

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: mrsn on January 01, 2012, 11:22:23 pm

I would use a number 5 and lots of tape. Purpleheart burns fairly easily and the tape will help.

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: math2010 on January 02, 2012, 12:08:05 am

Thanks!!

I have FD SR but not FD UR. Is FD Sr type ok?

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: dgman on January 02, 2012, 12:30:09 am

Yes, they should work fine!

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: BilltheDiver on January 02, 2012, 09:55:59 am

Good recommendations, but also slow down your blade.  Purpleheart burns easily.  Also use care when sanding because heat can cause a color change.

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: geneVG on January 02, 2012, 10:00:50 am

Purple heart is a hard wood.  I cut some figures out of 1/4 inch and used a Olson #2R.  And like the others say it burns easly.

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: daliclimbs on January 02, 2012, 10:06:22 am

FD UR #5 all the way. Purpleheart is definitely a stout wood. Rough on woodturning tools and scroll blades...

Title: Re: Wich blade for purpleheart?
Post by: UHMNL on January 02, 2012, 01:00:08 pm

If the pattern is not very intricate a # 7 or even a # 9 UR.
Make sure you use either the blue painters tape on the wood or the 2" clear package tape on top of the pattern. Have very good tension and good speed. If not you might start pushing too hard into the blade and the blade will sart cutting with a bevel. Not only that but the blade might grab the wood instead of cutting it.
FD Mike