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Abstract

This thesis investigates the effectiveness of the light-gap method for evaluating the saw tensioning process. In particular, it examines the ability of the light-gap profile to indicate changes in saw natural frequency and stiffness caused by the tensioning stresses. The light-gap method for bandsaws is studied in detail. Many of the results are also expected to be applicable to circular saws. Although the light-gap method is a poor indicator of the details of the tensioning stress distribution, it does provide a good measure of changes in natural frequencies and stiffness caused by the tensioning process. In particular, when a bandsaw is tensioned to the traditional light-gap profile, the frequency and stiffness of the saw can be characterized by the curvature of the light-gap profile. Additionally, the light-gap method offers important practical advantages over other tensioning evaluation techniques. The light-gap method indicates local non-uniformities in the tensioning state, guides roll path location and indicates levelling defects. For these reasons, the light-gap method is confirmed to be a highly effective and rational way of monitoring the saw tensioning process.