Quote:
Originally Posted by Cory
I was going to suggest this, but table saws are a tool that we don't let our kids get anywhere near, due to how many accidents occur while using them. I'd be VERY reluctant to endorse using it for a purpose it was never intended. You could end up seriously injured extremely quickly.
|
I design table saws on a daily basis and I can tell you that while it may be possible to cut aluminum on them. IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED. Besides the fact that the blade spins much to fast you will also need a really expensive carbide tooth cutter (don't use grinding disks)
That being said I think the tool you really want is a band saw. While a shear is a nice tool to have in your shop if all you are worried about is roughing out your sheets, a metal bandsaw using a guide/fence will get you where you need to go. I would look for a used GROB or other industrial variable speed band saw. Most likely something with ~20" will be fine for most standard stock you will buy.
The major problem I see with this route is that power requirements vary. They will go from 440v three phase to 220v single phase. Just make sure you have the right electric service for the unit you would consider.
On a side note - depending on the number of these you want many metal supply houses will have the ability to cut 1/8 aluminum well within your tolerances. And if you ask nicely they may even do it for you. Do you really need the ability to do this all the time, ie. do you really need to buy a tool. If you do then you will get much more work out of a band saw then a shear.