James discussed the salient parts of the flexible metal band saw blade. (1) Thickness or gage. (2) Set or size of kerf. (3) Width or blade height. (4) Pitch or teeth per inch. (5) Set Pattern being the interplay between set and unset raker teeth, (6) Tooth rake being the angle between the tooth cutting edge and the work normal. (7) Tooth form being the shape profile and gullet depth.

Conventional blades are made entirely of high carbon steel, being flame hardened along the tooth edge. They tend to crack from fatigue after repeated flexing around the saw drive wheels. Bimetal blades are composed of low carbon high silicon steel. The teeth are ground from a high alloy laser wire welded along the blade edge. This structure produces a flexible long lasting blade.

The use of coolants is recommended for all materials. Soluble oil is commonly used to flush the chips and reduce galling and cold welding. In lieu of a flooding coolant system, a bee's wax stick may be rubbed periodically onto the blade. Cold welding is most prevalent when cutting aluminum.

Inadequate blade tension can result in a bellied cut. The blade should be normal to the work, and can be checked with a steel square or dial indicator. Solid (carbide) blade guides should be used in place of the ball bearing type for greater bade stability.

Dennis Cranston distributed a flyer explaining how to join the "Tinkering" email discussion group.

Vance Burnes gave an oratory on "Life is Short", so make sure you go a Names convention or visit the Ford museum.

Keith Mitchell will pass the keys (password) and other pertinent information about maintaining the web site to the club officers. If you are capable and interested in being the web master, please make yourself known.

Dick Kostelnicek suggested that we publish the high points or an outline of member presentations in the newsletter prior to the presentation. This should help organize the talks, and allow the members to be prepared with questions.

Darrell Kachilla, Jim Appleby, and Doug Chartier volunteered to work on maintaining the web site.

Dave Whittaker will make name tags for those who notify him.

Joe Williams prepared a list of 81 shop equipment projects and modifications that he has made over the years. These could be used as the basis for newsletter articles.
 

Dick Kostelnicek showed the lightweight metal grating that he uses on his shop floor. "The chips and oil dry compound just falls through the grating". "I don't have to sweep up for months and it keep the chips out of the house rugs".

Joe Scott brought a milling machine depth stop that he designed. Joe reproduces parts for WWII vintage guns. He showed a punch and die that Joe Williams helped him fabricate along with the rifle part that it fabricates. Joe thanked the membership for the great tips and help he receives from the club.

Joe Williams showed a 1x42 inch belt sander that he made in 1985.