Cutting 1/4" aluminum

General tips/tricks/tools that could be utilized on any platform.
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birddog1148
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Cutting 1/4" aluminum

Post by birddog1148 »

Whats the best way to cut 1/4 in aluminum? I have a half sheet and want to use it to make skid plates.
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david58
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Post by david58 »

Use a Skill Saw with an aluminum blade works pretty well. You can clamp a piece of angle or 2x4 down to use as a guide to make straight cuts. Don't use a metal cutting blade. I have used worn out wood cutting blades by putting them on backwards. :lol:
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Leatherneck
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Post by Leatherneck »

with the proper PPE I used a table saw for the straight cuts. Carbide blade eats right through it though it does send some shrapnel, hence the PPE recommendation.
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david58
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Post by david58 »

What method sis you end up using?
Hot, humid air is less dense than cooler, drier air. This can allow a golf ball to fly through the air with greater ease, as there won't be as much resistance on the ball.
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birddog1148
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Post by birddog1148 »

none yet, lol, can I say "procrastinate"? :oops:
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stealth67vw
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Post by stealth67vw »

Use WD-40 for lubricant.
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Post by bparravicino »

You can make numerous jig saw blades from one hacksaw blade. I like 'Milwaukee" blades. hacksaw blades also tend to run straighter than a regular jig saw blade and you can change them regularly for pennies. I agree with the oil, cooking oil works well also.
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Jogyver
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Post by Jogyver »

For sawing and drilling lubricant , WD-40 or kerosene works pretty well at preventing chip welding. Use a 40 or 60 tooth carbide blade at low RPM . Make sure the workpiece is clamped down. Fine tooth blades will foul up with aluminum quickly. High RPM will do the same
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