How Do You Measure Blade Tension?

How to Properly Tension a Sawmill Blade Using a Tension Gauge

When it comes to sawmilling, blade tension is key to ensuring smooth and accurate cuts. Proper tensioning helps your blade maintain longevity while improving the precision of your milling. We’ll walk you through using a tension gauge to achieve optimal blade tension, ensuring your sawmill operates at peak performance. Each of the Hud-Son sawmill we have used this method to give you the proper torque recommendation for your mill. Most Hud-Son mills 36″ and smaller blades should be torqued between 30 and 35ft/lbs.

Why Blade Tension Matters

Blade tension determines how much the blade stretches under pressure, which directly impacts its ability to cut effectively. When the blade is too loose, it can wander or produce uneven cuts. If it’s too tight, it risks damaging the blade or the mill. Using a torque wrench to the recommended ft/lbs takes the guesswork out of the process, ensuring your blade is always perfectly adjusted.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I check blade tension?
You should check blade tension before every use to ensure optimal cutting conditions. Adjustments may be necessary as the blade heats up or after extended milling sessions. Be sure to back the tension back down at the end of the day.

2. What happens if my blade is to tight?
Blades can be over-tensioned. While a slight over-tension might correct itself once the mill is running, continuously running the blade at this tension can lead to unnecessary wear or breakage.

3. Is the tension the same on different sawmills?
No, most sawmills are 30 to 35ft/lbs, but the recommended tension range may vary. Always refer to the mill’s specifications for proper tension levels.

By using a torque wrench to your mill specifications, you can ensure your sawmill operates efficiently, helping you achieve accurate, clean cuts every time..