Using Paraffin On a Bandsaw

[diyfixman]

I think the use of wax is much cleaner than oil. genius idea. You're a smart person

[Baddog]

I have no experience using common wax, but the wax sticks made for the purpose work very well. As I understand it (and as I do), you don't leave it in contact with the blade. I usually start the cut and let the teeth rake through the wax (tube held in my hand) as it starts cutting. This makes a small deposit of the wax on the material just ahead of the cut. As the blade heats up a bit and cuts through the wax buildup, the blade gets at least a few passes through before it's all gone. For common structural materials, that's likely the only application it will get. Longer cuts, every so often it gets another application (if I think about it). As I understand it, the wax (additives?) coats the blade and continues to provide benefits for some period of time.

And it may just be the K&N fallacy, but it seems to cut easier and faster, and the sound seems to be noticeably "smoother"(?) or less "raspy" when the wax is in use.

[katy]

Does the wax have any adverse effect on the drive and idler wheels?

[Baddog]

The sticks I use are intended for that use, and I've seen no problems resulting.

[Karl_H]

I have used the wax from the grocery store canning section and I have not noticed any adverse effects from it.
(Study of one.)