Starrett 17542 Welded Bandsaw Blade 8-12 Tpi Bi-metal

Product Description

The STARRETT 17542 is a welded bi-metal bandsaw blade engineered for demanding metal-cutting applications. Part of the Intenss PRO-DIE series, it features an M42 high speed steel tooth construction bonded to a flexible backing for durability under continuous load. The blade measures 174 inches in length and 1/2 inch in width, with a 0.035-inch thickness and a variable 8-12 TPI pitch pattern. The variable pitch reduces vibration and harmonic noise during cuts, making it well suited to production environments where clean, consistent kerfs matter. Raker tooth set and a positive rake angle combine to deliver aggressive, controlled stock removal on a range of metals.

This blade is designed for contour and straight cutting on metal-cutting bandsaws accepting a 174-inch, 1/2-inch-wide blade. Typical applications include cutting steel, stainless steel, exotic alloys, and non-ferrous metals in fabrication shops, tool-and-die operations, and maintenance facilities. The M42 bi-metal construction handles interrupted cuts and hard spots better than standard carbon-steel blades, making it a common choice where material grade and surface condition vary across a workpiece. Professional machinists, fabricators, and tool-and-die technicians are the primary installers.

Key Features

• M42 high speed steel teeth bonded to a flexible bi-metal back for extended blade life
• Variable 8-12 TPI pitch reduces vibration and improves surface finish on metal cuts
• Raker tooth set with positive rake angle for aggressive, efficient stock removal
• Rated for steel, stainless steel, exotic steel, and non-ferrous metal applications
• Contour cutting capable with 1/2-inch width for moderate radius work
• Welded construction provides a consistent, fatigue-resistant joint

Compatibility

Designed for metal-cutting bandsaw machines that accept a 174-inch loop length and 1/2-inch blade width. Suitable for cutting steel, stainless steel, exotic steel, and non-ferrous metals as stated by the manufacturer.

Installation Notes

Blade installation should be performed by a qualified machinist or fabricator with the bandsaw fully de-energized and locked out per OSHA lockout/tagout procedures. Verify that blade guides, thrust bearings, and wheel brushes are in serviceable condition before mounting. Tension the blade according to the saw manufacturer's published tension chart for 1/2-inch bi-metal blades. Allow a short break-in period at reduced feed pressure on the first few cuts to seat the tooth set and prevent premature edge failure.