This video is by Izzy Swan.
It’s a prototype modular table system designed to expand the capabilities of Harvey’s Intelligent Alpha A-15 bandsaw into a multi-use woodworking platform.
By integrating a sliding table, tilt-compatible outfeed, and digital monitoring, Izzy pushes the limits of what a consumer bandsaw can do. The goal is to enable repeatable, high-accuracy operations—like milling, tapering, and hollow-form turning—all from a single base machine.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Izzy’s channel:
Why the Alpha A-15 Bandsaw Was the Right Choice
Harvey’s Alpha A-15 is not a typical bandsaw. Its digital control box allows real-time blade tension monitoring, tilt-angle display, and adjustable blade speed. These features make it a solid platform for precision upgrades and mechanical add-ons.
The saw also features high-quality bearing guides, micro-adjust knobs, a braking motor, and corrosion-resistant internal finishes. All of this means the saw behaves consistently, which is key when introducing add-on systems that rely on tight tolerances.
Aiming for a Multi-Function System
Izzy’s design isn’t just a sliding table—it’s a set of modular accessories that expand the saw’s role in the workshop. The system includes a tilting outfeed table that shares the bandsaw’s trunnion pivot geometry, enabling synchronized adjustments across complex cuts.
This setup allows the same saw to handle resawing, tapering, and eventually hollow-form work or milling tasks. But for that to happen, everything has to align with precision.
Starting in SketchUp Before Cutting
The design began in 3D modeling software. Using SketchUp, Izzy mocked up rail placement, table size, pivot locations, and support geometry. This step helped identify clearance issues and spots where built-in adjustability would be needed.
While modeling doesn’t replace hands-on mockups, it reduced trial-and-error during assembly and highlighted areas where real-world tolerances might cause problems later on.
Choosing and Mounting the Rails
Heavy-duty linear rails form the heart of the sliding table. These were selected for their strength and availability, then cut to size using an abrasive cutoff method instead of a saw blade to preserve tool sharpness.
To maintain alignment during installation, the bearing blocks were mounted to the carriage first. Then the whole assembly was flipped, and the rails were attached while everything was held in place. This strategy reduced cumulative error and kept the motion smooth.
Iterative Testing and Refinement
Even with careful planning, the first prototype had small issues. A minor sag appeared at the end of the sliding table, and there was some movement under load.
These issues were traced to material flex in the support system and a lack of built-in adjustability at key angles.
Rather than scrap the entire build, Izzy replaced fixed angle pieces with adjustable ones and plans to move to aluminum for the final version.
Engineering the Tilting Outfeed
One of the standout elements is the outfeed table that tilts with the saw. A trunnion under the table matches the saw’s pivot point, ensuring the table and blade move in sync.
The temporary version uses plastic panels and HDPE to allow for fast prototyping and smooth surface contact. While this material flexes a bit under heavy load, it’s ideal for refining the mechanics before building a more rigid final model.
Making the Most of Digital Controls
What makes the Alpha A-15 particularly powerful in this setup is its intelligent control panel. It simplifies calibration and ensures repeatable setup through three key readouts:
- Blade tension: You can input blade specs and know exactly when you’re dialed in—no guessing or deflection checks.
- Tilt angle: Once calibrated, the digital readout ensures accurate bevel setups, critical for precise angled cuts.
- Blade speed: Variable RPM lets you dial in speeds for different wood types or operations.
When paired with a well-built sliding and tilting platform, those digital systems eliminate the trial-and-error that usually plagues complicated bandsaw operations.
Operational Wins: Braking and Blade Guides
Two features that stand out during daily use are the electronic braking and premium blade guides.
The motor brake stops the blade almost immediately when the saw is turned off, speeding up workflow and improving safety.
Micro-adjustable blade guides with smooth bearing action make setup quicker and improve cut quality. These small features add up, especially in a system that relies on precision from start to finish.
What Comes Next
Initial testing of the sliding table and outfeed system was a success. The system tracked well, supported large workpieces, and enabled precise cuts with minimal vibration. But a few areas will be improved before moving to a final version:
- Structural upgrades: HDPE and flexible angle brackets will be swapped for stronger materials.
- More adjustability: Fine-tuning hardware will be added to reduce the need for full disassembly during alignment.
- Full aluminum build: A rigid version will minimize flex and support heavy use.
Unlocking New Capabilities
With further refinement, this setup can do more than resaw or taper. The sliding table enables consistent feed for hollow-form turning, leg tapering, and even router-like shaping for joinery work.
Because the system is modular, users can start with the sliding table and later add the tilt-matched outfeed or other jigs as needed.
It’s a long-term upgrade path for anyone using the Alpha A-15 as a workshop centerpiece.
Please support Izzy by visiting his website: https://www.izzyswan.com/.