You didn't ask, but Machinery Handbook, 25th edition (page 1061) gives 500
sfm for cutting aluminum using coolant.
If cutting dry, reduce by about 30 percent.

Then on page 1057, there is a tooth selection wheel chart. Their example of
a 4 inch pipe with a 3 inch inside diameter
indicates a 4/6 variable pitch blade for the job. It seems your 0.25 wall
thickness tubing would need a somewhat finer
pitch.

Hope this helps!
Ace


"bschwand" wrote in message
oups.com...
subject line says it all... any good rule of thumb and advice ?
I want to make sure I am buying the right blades for the bandsaw I am
about to order.
It will be cutting aluminum plate = 1.5 " thick and tubing and
extrusions (~ 0.25" wall)

bruno