How a Lumber Band Sawmill Works

1. Log Loading

Logs are placed on a bed or track (manual, hydraulic, or electric).

Clamps and dogs hold the log firmly in place.

The log can be rotated to square it or get the best grain orientation.

2. The Band Saw Blade

A thin, flexible steel blade runs in a loop around two large wheels.

Teeth face one direction and cut on the forward pass.

Blade width is usually 1–2 inches wide.

Because the blade is thin, it wastes less wood (small kerf) compared to circular saws.

3. Cutting Process

The saw head moves horizontally along the log on rails.

Each pass slices off a board or slab.

After each cut, the head is lowered by a set thickness (e.g., 1", 2").

Cuts are smooth and accurate with minimal vibration.

4. Power Source

Powered by:

Gas engines (portable mills)

Electric motors (shop-based mills)

Diesel engines (industrial mills)

5. Off-Bearing

Finished boards are removed manually or with rollers.

Boards are then stacked and stickered for drying (air or kiln).