I need to cut lots of thin wall metal (usualy brass) tubing for applications in the lighting industry. I need nice clean perpendicular cuts and find a hand tubing cutter to be slow and "messy". However I would rather not have to use a huge 14" chop-saw due to space considerations. Can anyone recommend a power tool that will do the job without being way over powered - preferably bench mounted?
2007-02-05 00:27:53 · 10 answers · asked by baxgammon 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
With no offense to others who answer, nor to you,,,Number 1 has the best clue so far.
I have to wonder however, since it seems to be your stock in trade, why not research more deeply into pipe cutters that can be more stationary.
What I more enjoy about the spin type pipe cutter is the clean cut aspect, as opposed to any other, and again with no offense a sawzall etc. still means mounting the stock to keep it stable, and doesn't strictly promise a straight 90 degree cut. Plus the residue needs more cleanup/out.
Also regarding thin wall stock. The speed of any blade, in conjunction with the weight of the device, might distort the stock in cutting.
Regarding "Messy" perhaps in part it has to do with being operated by a human, again, no offense, and the fact that the wheel needs turning to engage the blade deeper in each spin, even on thin stock.
As you are "IN" the industry, and may need the "tool" to be mobile, I'd look deeper into specifics, if I was in need.
Steven Wolf
2007-02-05 00:54:02 · answer #1 · answered by DIY Doc 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with the air or electric cut off wheel. The air grinder is smaller and easier to handle but on;y if you have air tools. A 4" angle grinder is second best. Use the thinnest cut off blade for metal. Make sure that the tube is held securely and only grind a groove a little at a time along the whole length you need to cut. Go deeper with each pass until it breaks through. It will want to grab when it does so be careful and wear safety glasses and gloves.
2016-05-24 17:48:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
For cutting tubing, it is best to use the tube cutter. It takes a little while, but the cut should be good and square and should cause a minimum of distortion to your tubing. Any other device will cause more headaches with tube distortion and clean-up. If you are bent on using a power tool, I guess I'd try a chop saw with a good metal cutting blade in it.
2007-02-05 03:17:53 · answer #3 · answered by Jeffrey S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try to find a small power miter that will accept about a 4 1/2 " x 1/16" thick cut-off wheel. Use light feed pressure to avoid flexing the wheel, and be prepared to ream the inside before pulling wire through it. I suspect a small tile cutting table saw with a diamond blade, using the cutting guide would also work with a little practice. Good luck.
2007-02-05 00:39:09 · answer #4 · answered by lurned1 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can purchase a 41/2" grinder and mount from Northern this is compact and will make a clean cut with the right cutting wheal. Also it is small and portable. The mount is similar to the bigger chop saw you mentioned. Buy the way that's Northern Tool mail order.
2007-02-05 02:25:52 · answer #5 · answered by star52 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the tool needs to be easily moved from one area to the next, get you a DeWalt 18v cordless reciprocating saw. I use this saw for many different cutting tasks in commercial air conditioning installations and they do make a fine and clean cut.
2007-02-05 00:38:33 · answer #6 · answered by redbird 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They do make a small table mounted band saw.As for a clean cut stick with your tubing cutter.
2007-02-05 00:43:17 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
A 10 or smaller Miter saw with a abrasive blade would work as well.
2007-02-05 00:30:35 · answer #8 · answered by mdlbldrmatt135 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could try a saw'zall. (sp?) Just ask home Depot for one, they know what it is.
2007-02-05 00:31:17 · answer #9 · answered by Army Gal 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a dremel will be great
2007-02-05 01:28:51 · answer #10 · answered by tom c 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋