A Shark Band Saw Blade Enhances the Quality of Cut in Preparation of Specimens for Plastination

The popularity for use of band saws in preparing plastinated specimens has increased significantly over the past few years. This use has brought forth many modifications that have facilitated the production of even higher quality specimens. In this study, a Shark Band blade was evaluated and found to be superior over more commonly used (10 to 12 teeth per inch) blades. Trials were performed upon frozen tissues in preparation for S10 plastination, E12 sheet plastination, as well as for slicing cured S10 plastinated whole brains. The advantage of a Shark Band blade is, that by a reduction to only 3 teeth per inch, the creation and subsequent contamination of specimens by sawdust is significantly reduced. The minimal set and thickness (14 gauge / .014 inches) of the teeth and blade similarly promotes a smooth and very fine cut. The effects of this blade can be even further enhanced through an increase in the blades cutting speed. Unfortunately, the same design that facilitates the quality of the cut also greatly reduces the blade life. When cutting dense bone or enamel, the blade teeth are quickly dulled and taken out of set. This necessitates the replacement of the band after only a few cuts.