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Re: Best hand tool to use to cut sheet metal (aluminum diamond plate)?
I've cut (and even plunge cut) 1/4" aluminum plate with a circular saw with a carbide tipped wood blade. While it worked quite well, it was VERY loud, and pretty dangerous. The carbide tips can fly off and pierce safetly glasses even. I wouldn't recommend this.
With any type of saw, you must have the worked secured, go very slowly, and wear ear muffs and a full face mask. They make circular saw blades specifically for cutting non-ferrous metals. Check McMaster.
I'll throw in another vote for the plasma cutter.
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Teacher/Engineer/Machinist - Team 696 Circuit Breakers, 2011 - Present
Mentor/Engineer/Machinist, Team 968 RAWC, 2007-2010
Technical Mentor, Team 696 Circuit Breakers, 2005-2007
Student Mechanical Leader and Driver, Team 696 Circuit Breakers, 2002-2004
Last edited by sanddrag : 01-10-2008 at 21:24.
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