Using metal cutting is a great way to prepare
your own metal hardware or add artistic pieces
to your woodworking projects. There are many
ways to cut metal and the method and tools you
choose will be determined by the type and thickness
of the materials in your project. Whether you
are working with thin aluminium or tin for accenting
or strong steel for hardware such as hinges,
hasps, or edges, you too can cut the metal you
need right in your own workshop.
Metal sawing
One of the most basic
tools for cutting metal is the hacksaw. This handy tool is a great way
to saw straight lines in even the densest materials,
and the ease of blade changing makes the hacksaw
one of the most hand metal sawing tools. Stronger
steel can also be cut with an Oxy-Acetylene torch.
This fast and easy method produces edges which
typically need a fair amount of filing to be
smooth.
Using a metal cut off saw
Another great way to cut metal is with a metal
cut off saw. These saws can be either electrical
or air powered, and provide quick and clean cuts.
Some compressed air powered cut off saws include
attachments for dust collection, so that you
can remove dangerous metal particles as you are
cutting. This will guarantee a safe working environment
in your shop, although safety goggles, gloves,
and ear protectors are still essential.
A metal band saw
Buying a special blade can turn any band saw
into a metal band saw. Carbon steel blades are
good for mild metals, while a bi-metal blade
will cut all metals, including ultra-tough stainless
steel. While carbon steel blades are less expensive,
bi-metal blades last longer and cut faster than
carbon steel.
Once you have installed a metal cutting blade
on your band saw, the sky really is the limit
for the types of projects you can complete. With
a metal band saw, you can cut designs ranging
from bells to angels, and then add these pieces
to your woodworking projects. You can also produce
templates of designs to make it easier to mark
wooden or plastic pieces, which can be especially
useful if you are planning to produce several
items of the same design. A metal band saw's
accuracy and speed makes it one of the best tools
available for metal cutting.
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