Old Versus New 
By Michael Wheat (HE&M Saw Tech Support)
         
           Advances in blade and band saw technology in the past few years have resulted in the creation of sawing systems that will out-perform older band saws by a factor of two, three, or more.  The word is out, but the folks who are already aware of what the new saws can do aren’t talking.

           The new saws are faster, more accurate, safer, and use less energy than their predecessors.  The new automatic saws can also reduce labor costs, because they can run unattended.  The newest technology in saws designed and manufactured by HE&M Saw completely eliminates the guesswork that used to be required to achieve productive and efficient cutting rates. 

         The technology that we have seen to improve our lives in the fields of communication, transportation, and medicine are also being applied to band saws.  New saws, like new cars, trucks, and SUV’s, are incorporating modern technology to create faster, more powerful, more efficient, safer, and more reliable equipment than ever before.  Most steel executives and managers would never allow their wives to drive vehicles 20 or 30 years old.  But that’s exactly what they may have in their warehouses when it comes to the age of band saws and other equipment.  Sure, some of these old saws are still plugging along.  Most of them are just about as productive as when they were new.  But, here’s the kicker:  New saws cut faster.  They cut more accurately.  They produce less scrap.  They are safer.  They use less energy.  They require less labor, now and in the future.

            The science of band saw design and band saw blade design is creating a new generation of cutting machines that thoroughly out-perform the last generation.  New blades are using designs with higher performing tooth geometry, improved tooth compositions, and coatings that older saws simply can’t utilize.  It’s like putting racing tires on a Pinto.  What’s the point?  It’s still just a Pinto.  For example, several blade manufacturers are offering new and proven blades with carbide teeth.  Many end users are reluctant to use these blades on their old machines, and sometimes for good reason.  The old saws just aren’t rugged, rigid, or smooth running as the new saws.

           HE&M Saw has developed computer-controlled sawing platforms that, when combined with the new generation of double-column saws, allow full use of the fantastic cutting capabilities of the new generation blades.

            Many new cutting houses, machine shops, fabricators, and start-up steel warehouses are discovering the advantages of having modern equipment.  They have an instant competitive edge over companies that are using technology that is ten, twenty, or thirty years old.

             It is understood that the economy has been in the doldrums for the past couple of years, but that is going to change, and it’s probably going to change sooner rather than later.  Keep in mind that interest rates have never been lower in recent memory.

             Sure, that old mid-seventies Buick might still get you from here to there, but you’d never make a long trip without a cell phone.

             See what the new technology can do for you.  Some of your competitors already have.