Friction sawing is not an entirely new concept in cutting. Several distinct advantages are apparent with the use of the Tannewitz band saw for friction cutting. Less horsepower is required; contour cutting possible; the thin band tool had less kerf than circular blades; and irregular pieces could be cut without support since there was very little down drag or pull during band friction sawing. So, there was an entire new field of cutting developed from an old cutting principle. To better understand the cutting action, let us take a look at the principles behind friction sawing.
In friction cutting or burning, the heat generated is a product of some co-efficient of friction of the metal or metals in contact, times the pressure, time the distance moved. Note that speed is not mentioned. The BTU’s of heat generated depends on the pressure, the kind of material, and the distance moved, and is not affected by the area of contact nor the tie or speed.

See a video of a friction test cut: