I want to tig some diamond plate boxes out of 4 x 8 sheets of aluminum diamond plates. What do you recommend to use to rip and cut the sheets?
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I want to tig some diamond plate boxes out of 4 x 8 sheets of aluminum diamond plates. What do you recommend to use to rip and cut the sheets?
If you have a local place like I have, and did get them to do today, that can do it for little or nothing, and include the cost of the sheets: A laser CNC cutter...Otherwise, if it's thin enough a table saw with a fine blade.
Isn't this what Everlast says their plasma cutter is so good at on their You Tube video?
Basically, you need a plasma cutter. Specifically, an Everlast Plasma Cutter.
Now, where's my commission?
Ive never heard of using a table saw. But I know that you can use a circular saw in a pinch if thin enough too. Never tryed it though. If ya do Id use some strait edge as a guide.
Use a blade made for aluminum and go slow. Or you could try a pneumatic shear. If you live near a fab or welding shop you could see if they are willing to do it cheap. If you brought it to my shop I would do it for a beer. :D
You can make square precise cuts with the plasma cutter. I use a straight edge clamped onto the metal as a guide.
I drag the torch top along the side. Take your time and the cuts will be precise as anything else.
I have a different brand plasma cutter it has a brass tip. I drag the side of the tip along the straight edge. The shears cut using a scissor action. not good for making any sharp radius's only large ones and straight cuts.
I've cut aluminum sheet with regular wood working tools. I don't use my best blades, but it works fine. That goes for tablesaw, compound miter saw, etc. I'd wear a face shield and maybe long sleeves. You can get pelted with chips.
Doug
The diablo non-ferrous blade is a beast at cutting aluminum. I have cut 1/4" tubing with no problem.
Has anyone cut steel with a circular saw?
I haven't used it but they make a diablo blade called a steel demon and it says don't use on thicker than 1/4". Even a 1/4" though is not bad for a saw.
Hmm it just seems it would be a kinda handy way to cut stuff here and there. I wouldnt use it on my good saw though. What about putting a metal blade on a wood band saw. Would that be any good to use or does the wood bandsaws not have a big enough motor on them.