Patent ID: 6196104
Filing Date: 2001-03-06
Classification: B23D,Y10T

Abstract:
Apparatus for slicing a workpiece of solid polymeric surfacing material into sheets, each sheet having a thickness with a standard deviation in thickness of about 0.002 inches, the apparatus comprising:(a) a continuous blade band saw having a slicing blade with a cutting edge wherein the blade travels at a linear speed of from about 5000 feet per minute to about 10000 feet per minute during slicing;(b) at least one workpiece support member for supporting the workpiece during slicing;(c) a fluid supply for cooling the blade and workpiece during slicing; and(d) a workpiece stabilizing member located between the support member and the blade;whereby, when the workpiece and blade cutting edge are moved toward each other the stabilizing member holds the workpiece firmly in place with respect to the blade at a location just prior to the workpiece entering the blade.