Starrett 16668 Welded Bandsaw Blade 18 Tpi Bi-metal M42

Product Description

The STARRETT 16668 is a welded bi-metal bandsaw blade engineered for continuous cutting of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. It measures 93.5 inches in length and 0.5 inches in width, with a blade thickness of 0.025 inches. The cutting edge runs at 18 teeth per inch in a constant-pitch, wavy tooth set configuration. Tooth material is M42 high-speed steel — a cobalt-bearing grade known for heat resistance and edge retention under sustained metal-cutting loads. The flexible steel back absorbs vibration and resists fatigue during contour-cutting operations. This blade is a fit for maintenance shops, fabrication facilities, and production environments where consistent metal-cutting performance is required.

The 16668 is suited for use on horizontal and vertical bandsaws with a compatible wheel and guide configuration accepting a 0.5-inch wide blade. Its positive rake angle and wavy set make it effective on both ferrous metals such as mild steel and structural stock, as well as non-ferrous materials including aluminum and copper alloys. The constant pitch delivers smooth, even chip formation across a range of material thicknesses and cross-sections. It is part of the Starrett Intenss series, which is designed for demanding metal-cutting applications in industrial and trade settings. Installation and blade changes are typically performed by maintenance technicians or machine operators familiar with bandsaw setup procedures.

Key Features

• M42 high-speed steel teeth for superior heat and wear resistance in metal-cutting applications
• Wavy tooth set reduces blade vibration and smooths the cut on thin and variable cross-section stock
• Positive rake angle improves chip evacuation and cutting efficiency on ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Constant 18 TPI pitch delivers consistent chip load across a wide range of material types
• Flexible back construction resists fatigue cracking during contour-cutting operations
• Welded construction provides a uniform joint for continuous, uninterrupted blade travel

Compatibility

Designed for use on bandsaw machines configured to accept a 0.5-inch wide blade with a wheel circumference corresponding to a 93.5-inch blade loop. Suitable for cutting ferrous metal and non-ferrous metal workpieces.

Installation Notes

Blade installation should be performed by a qualified technician following the bandsaw manufacturer's tensioning and tracking procedures. Power down and lock out the machine before changing blades. Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling bandsaw blades, as the toothed edge presents a laceration hazard during uncoiling and mounting. Verify wheel alignment and guide clearances before resuming operation.