If you’ve ever wondered: Can table saw cut aluminum? In this article I’ll explain how table saws can cut aluminum, how to choose the right blade, and some safety precautions to keep in mind. Using a table saw to cut aluminum requires a certain level of skill. Using the right blade and table saw will maximize the results, but be sure to follow these safety precautions. Using a table saw to cut aluminum is not without its risks. Choosing a blade with more teeth will produce a smoother cut.
Cutting aluminum with a table saw
If you’re working with non-ferrous metals, like aluminum, then you can use woodworking blades designed for non-ferrous metals. However, these blades may break easier than wood blades, so you should take precautions. To cut aluminum with the right TPI (teeth per inch), choose a blade with a higher TPI than the one for wood. This will ensure a smoother cut and less chance of breaking the carbide tip.
When cutting aluminum, remember to use a light or coolant on the blades, since shards of aluminum may get stuck in the motor. It’s also a good idea to wear full safety goggles. Never assume that your prescription glasses will protect your eyes! The aluminum shards can get into your eyes, and if you don’t wear a safety mask, you’ll be tearing up your workpiece in the process.
Choosing a table saw
If you’re going to cut aluminum, you need a table saw that can handle the material. Before you cut the material, you should make sure that the blade and fence are aligned. In addition, the splitter should sit behind the blade and the saw should have a safety guard. You can also use a push tool to move the metal into the blade. This way, you won’t have to worry about metal shavings flying into your face.
Purchasing a table saw specifically for cutting aluminum is a very simple process. First, you must choose the material. Aluminum is made of various alloys and can have different hardnesses. Each alloy has different strengths, and the one you choose should be able to meet your needs. Alloys with better machining properties include aluminum 2024, 6061-T6, and 6061-T6/T651. Avoid using a saw designed for cutting wood because the material can cause a fire in the dust collection system.
Choosing a blade
When you need to cut aluminum, you’ll want to use a special blade. Otherwise, your blade could break or bend, and the material could end up catching on fire. There are a few things you can do to ensure that you get optimum results: lubricate the blade well, use a guide, and use protective equipment to minimize the chances of injury. You can also get a guide that’s made of a straight piece of wood.
You’ll also want to consider the number of teeth on your blade. The number of teeth should be proportional to the thickness of the material being cut. If you’re cutting a quarter-inch-thick piece of aluminum, fewer teeth are better. On the other hand, if the material is thinner, you can get away with six teeth. You can also get away with a blade with more teeth.
Safety precautions to take
When using a table saw to cut aluminum, there are several safety precautions to take. First of all, always stand behind the workpiece. If you are using a table saw, you should use low-viscosity cutting oil. This will prevent the blade from sticking to the aluminum and will also prevent splintering and overheating. Another safety precaution is to wear a full pair of safety goggles. Never assume that your prescription glasses will protect your eyes.
After preparing the work piece for the cutting process, you should ensure it has enough support. You can get an assistant to hold the workpiece while it goes through the blade. A roller stand or outfeed table is another way to prevent the workpiece from tipping over. Regardless of your workpiece, always use caution when cutting aluminum. Always follow the instructions and safety precautions that come with the saw.
Safety precautions to take when cutting aluminum with a table saw
When cutting aluminum, there are several safety precautions to be taken. The material is hot, and slivers of it can cut your fingers or even cause a fire if not handled properly. The metal itself can also be dangerous, as chips can catch fire easily. While there are several safety precautions to take when cutting aluminum with a table saw, a few of them should be common sense.
Before cutting aluminum with a table saw, you must lubricate the blade to prevent the metal from sticking. Although aluminum and blades are similar in composition, the lubricant will help prevent the metal from adhering to the blade. This is vital, because cutting aluminum with a blade that has too much metal may cause the metal to become stuck and distorted. If you do not use lubricant, the metal may stick to the blade, which can be painful.