Proper speed setting

[Steve Kolenda]

Brand new to the Scroll Saw and have a question regarding speed settings. I have a DeWalt DW788 and am wondering what the basic rule of thumb for setting the proper speed? Thanks in advance

[miamw]

I don't think there is any basic rule of thumb. It's all personal preference.

[BobD (Archive)]

I run my saw as fast as I can and still maintain control. The best advice I can offer is to start slow and increase the speed as you gain confidance!

Bob Duncan
Technical Editor

[3_M]

With a higher speed the blade will cut better. If the speed is too low you tend to push a little too hard into the blade and the blade will start cutting with a bevel. Tension is very imported. Not enough, you lose control and will break a lot of blades.
Mike

[workin for wood]

too much speed can break blades too. with jewelery blades I find the tension and the speed need to be at a bare minimum. With a big blade you can really let it roar, but I prefer a little less than half speed. With a big #9 blade at a slower speed you get to the end just as fast but without any burns. A slower speed removes more material per down stroke.

[Minnesota scroller]

I start at around 3 or 4 and then increase as the blade dulls.

[Steve Kolenda]

Thank you all for responding. Looks like when I get some time under my belt I will have a better idea.

[Mick Walker]

Steve, the best speed is the one that you are most comfortable with and can still control staying on the line cutting straight or curves. Experience is the best teacher.

[Woodbutcher68]

As fast as you can while maintaining control without burning the wood.
I rarely go below the top three settings on my 788.
When you're cutting for craft shows or selling to friends, etc., time is money whether it's cutting pieces out or sanding burn marks or burrs.

[CanadianScroller]

Looks like lots of opinions and good advice.
I tend to cut slowly I like more control and I am never really into production. I agree that faster speeds can give to a smoother finish and I like faster speeds when cutting straight lines, but most of the time I cut at 500 SPM. Like I have said before I savour the cutting like a nice steak dinner.


Hmmm my mouth never watered from scrolling before!

[Steve Kolenda]

Thank you all. I appreciate your help.

[unixpro]

The speed you choose depends on a lot of things. The thickness of the wood, the blade you're using, the type of wood you're cutting, if you're doing inside or outside cuts, all these make a difference.

Personally, I use a slower speed when I'm in thin wood or doing intricate (tight radius) work, a medium speed when doing medium thickness inside work, and a higher speed when doing outside work. I use a slower speed with smaller blades and a faster speed with larger ones.

This works for me. Your mileage may vary. Just keep on keeping on and you'll develop your own technique. Scroll on, dude.