Starrett 16696 Welded Bandsaw Blade Variable Pitch Bi-metal

Product Description

The STARRETT 16696 is a welded bi-metal bandsaw blade engineered for demanding metal-cutting applications in fabrication and maintenance environments. Measuring 13 feet 10 inches in length, 1 inch wide, and 0.035 inches thick, this blade features a variable pitch tooth pattern ranging from 6 to 10 TPI. The bi-metal construction pairs a flexible alloy steel back with high speed steel teeth, delivering extended blade life and resistance to tooth stripout when cutting irregular cross-sections. Licensed blade technicians, millwrights, and metal fabricators working with structural ferrous and non-ferrous stock will find the Intenss PRO series geometry well matched to production bandsaw applications.

This blade is designed for horizontal and vertical bandsaws cutting ferrous metals such as structural steel, mild steel, and tool steel, as well as non-ferrous materials including aluminum and brass. The variable 6 to 10 TPI pitch pattern reduces harmonic vibration during the cut and supports efficient chip clearance across varying material thicknesses. It is suited to both production shop environments and job-site fabrication work where consistent, burr-minimized cuts are required. The raker tooth set and positive rake angle promote aggressive stock removal while maintaining blade stability.

Key Features

• Bi-metal construction with high speed steel teeth for extended tooth life on hard ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Variable pitch 6 to 10 TPI pattern reduces vibration and improves surface finish across varying material cross-sections
• Raker tooth set with positive rake angle promotes efficient chip clearance and aggressive cutting action
• Flexible alloy steel back resists fatigue cracking during continuous production cutting
• Straight tooth form delivers consistent, predictable cut geometry on structural and bar stock
• Factory-welded construction ensures a consistent joint with no performance variation at the weld point

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-fit blade for production bandsaws accepting a 1-inch-wide, 13-foot-10-inch continuous welded blade. Suitable for ferrous metal and non-ferrous metal cutting applications.

Installation Notes

Blade installation should be performed by a qualified machinist or maintenance technician with the bandsaw fully de-energized and locked out per OSHA lockout/tagout procedures. Confirm wheel diameter, blade guide spacing, and tension specifications on the host machine before mounting. Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling coiled or uncoiled bandsaw blades. Do not exceed the bandsaw manufacturer's rated blade speed for the material being cut.