Need to cut acrylic sheets

[Armando]

I got three acrylic sheets that need to be cut somewhat in the middle, to make baffles. Does anyone know where can I get this done?

 

[NateHanson]

I know a place up in Lawrence

If you're headed up this way sometime just give me a holler.

 

[Piscevore]

I have a small table saw also, although nate's setup is pretty damn nice

 

[marco67]

When cutting pieces for baffels I always just use a scoring tool then snap it,
The tools are cheap (~$2 HD) I use my 4' level as a straight edge, give 3 or 4 passes with the tool (try to cut through about 50%) then move my level under the sheet right at the edge of the cut, then flex the sheet.......nice clean break every time.
(

 

[stang8s]

ditto what marco said. I have done this with a razor knife and a straight edge.

 

[Daragon]

I have also done the same as marco67 & stang8s and I have the right bit to do it on my router table. Armando, if you need help doing it let me know and I'll bring my tools.

 

[Armando]

I thought the knife method would only work for 1/8" sheets. Will this also work for 1/4" sheets like the ones I have?

 

[Piscevore]

It does work armando, I have done it. Honestly, I don't know if it is just as easy as "snap" though. Its definitely more effort than say, a power saw

 

[marco67]

The scoring tool absoultly works with 1/4" I'm not sure about the utility knife. It's actually more accurate and easier then using a table saw, believe me I've done both!

 

[Armando]

I have a small jigsaw, and i am planning to get a table to make the saw more useful (like cut straight for example ) However... i have no space for a table. Are those foldable ones at HD any good? Any recommendations?

 

[Armando]

Marco i'll definitely give it a try with a scoring tool. For these pieces it would be the easiest (I mean, the easiest is to drive up to Nate but he's already building my Calcium Reactor so I don't want to ask for this also )

 

[NateHanson]

Ha!

Anyways, something like a "workmate" folding bench would probably work well for you Armando. http://www.tool-net.co.uk/data/index.php?ToolID=319478

They have some sort of vice arrangement on the top for holding workpieces.

Nate

 

[Armando]

Nate I can also send to you by mail and you mail them back to me after cutting

 

[Piscevore]

Armando--- You may want to check out Adam's setup. He's quite the DIY'er.... He's def. got Nate beat in this dept.

http://freespace.virgin.net/i.oldroyd/room/

 

[marco67]

Armando,
You can cut a straight line easy enough with a jig saw. Just get yourself a pair of strong clamps and clamp a straight edge in place as a guide to run the saw along. The problem with cutting acrylic with a jig saw is the blade will heat and melt the acrylic. If you use to fine a blade the cut will "heal" it's self right behind you to coarse...chipping and a lousy cut. all in all not a great choice.

 

[NateHanson]

Yeah Adam makes me look like an amateur when it comes to a nice flattering bustline seam.

Armando--- You may want to check out Adam's setup. He's quite the DIY'er.... He's def. got Nate beat in this dept.

http://freespace.virgin.net/i.oldroyd/room/

 

[Armando]

Marco well said. When I tried to cut acrylic with the saw in the past I always ended up with a coarse edge, no matter which saw I used.

 

[NateHanson]

yeah, in my experience any saw will leave a fairly rough edge. If you want it smooth like that square I gave you armando, you have to run the edges over a jointer, or trim it with a router.

Nate

 

[Armando]

All right Nate, I am on my way

 

[NateHanson]

Anytime Armando. Just bring your avatar along

No, really. You're welcome to stop by if you need to.