Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Power Tools). This thread is read-only.
I’m looking to cut aluminium up to maybe 1inch thick. Can I use any bandsaw with a metal cutting blade fitted or is there a difference in power/construction between metal and wood saws that would mean this wouldn’t work. It’s only for the occasional project.
Maybe a jig saw would work. (not sure exactly but i think it can). Or you can try using a Reciprocating Saw. Just before you try any of the above you should ask your local HD retail because i never tried cutting through aluminum before.
Link to the reciprocating saw info on the web. (http://www.professional-power-tool-guid … ng-Saw.htm).
stroll down and it talks about different blades for different materials.
I’ve used a jig saw and it cuts ok but it’s not a very clean cut and it’ll snag now and again causing the piece to jump around. The blade also gets clogged very quickly. I’ve only cut thin sheets of ali with the jig saw so I think it would be even worse with a thicker piece. I’ve also used a reciprocating saw with the same problems.
Well if none of those saws worked for you then the band saw won’t work. Well at least with my experience with a band saw. So far all I have cut with it is wood and heavy duty wood.
I bought a blade a long time ago for my band saw for cutting metal. At the time it was expensive. I am sure now the prices have come down. I am in the same position and only cut metal once in a while. I have never had a problem with my band saw. just take it slow becuase an inch is pretty thick. Just make sure it doesn’t get to hot.
Blade selection, blade selection, blade selection.
The bandsaw should be fine for cutting aluminum, as well as a jig saw or recip. What you’ll want to do is get the appropriate blade for the saw. You’ll need to find a blade made for “Non-Ferrous” metals such as Aluminum and Copper.
Here is a link to a jig saw blade, that is made for cutting Non-Ferrous metals.
http://www.toolauthority.com/product_in … ts_id=3830
Hope this gets you going in the right direction if you still need the help.