Aluminum Cutting Process: Hints and Tips

When you need to cut aluminum, keeping these tips in mind can make your job much easier.

1.Woodworking tools can be used

Since aluminum is one of the softer metals, you can also repurpose some high-quality wood cutting tools to cut aluminum. Make sure to always use carbide blades.

2.Use a lubricant

Metal cutting lubricants help reduce chatter and inconsistency during the cutting process and also help remove chips and swarf. The most common aluminum lubricant is WD-40, but other lubricants such as metal cutting wax and water are equally effective in preventing blade clogging.

3.Smaller blade diameter is better

Generally, smaller diameter blades produce cleaner, more accurate cuts because smaller diameters result in less runout, and less runout means a smoother cut.

4.Clamping the Workpiece When Cutting Aluminum

Clamping the workpiece keeps it stable, and a stable workpiece results in a cleaner cut. Another benefit of clamping is that it improves safety, reducing the likelihood of objects flying off the saw and injuring the operator.

5.Wear and tear protection

When cutting aluminum or any other material, always wear adequate protective equipment, including safety glasses or goggles and hearing protection. Full face protection is also recommended.

6.Use the right hand tools

Tin snips and scissors, angle grinders, chisels and carbide blades are all tools used by craftsmen to tackle professional or DIY projects. Either way, there are the right hand tools to complement your saw or machine tool. Cutting thick aluminum tubing may require a carbide metal cutting circular saw blade.