Using Carvex PSB 420 EBQ for aluminum cutting

[BeCalm]

Hello Festool-

The specs on this tool say its good up to 3/4" in non-ferrous. My use will be in aluminum 1/4" to 3/8". Other than correct blade selection , appropriate cutting lubricant, and chip extraction, what additional considerations should I be making to use this tool to cut aluminum?

Thanks!

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Welcome to the forum.

Beyond what you listed, I would recommend the use of the spark trap if you will be using it with a dust extractor while cutting metals.

http://www.festoolusa.com/power-tool-accessories/hepa-dust-extractors/other-accessories/spark-trap-484733

Also, consider the metal cutting base for the Carvex, which will protect the base from picking up metal fragments.

http://www.festoolusa.com/power-tool-accessories/jigsaws/carvex-bases-and-inserts/steel-base-insert-for-carvex-jigsaw-497300

Shane

 

[BeCalm]

OK-I"ll read up on those-----

Thanks!

 

[Davej]

Cutting aluminium does not create any sort of spark . I have cut ally with the standard base with no  problems with regards to scratching it.

Dave

 

[BeCalm]

Well, based on my previous Festool experiences- saw, rails, planer ( and weirdo moulding heads ), and two sanders, I would LIKE to think the Carvex will cut my aluminum plate just fine. However, I will be amazed if it does cut as advertised. I'll be 'measuring' it against my industrial bandsaw, not in speed of cut, but only in squareness of cut. Jigsaws, up to this test, have only been fit for thin, easy stuff. Hope this works........

Thanks for the alternative shoe idea.  Will do. No deal on the spark arrestor-in our shop we routinely like to mix wood working dust collection with hot and glowing metal working and grinding chips in the same collector. Reduces the number of trips to the dumpster, and keeps the neighbors amused. ISO 9002 this.........

 

[nclemmons]

I cut several pieces of 1/8 and 1/4" steel with my carvex.  They ranged from 1" to 3" wide.  

Used a speed square clamped across the piece as a guide and I was able to get VERY square cuts.  I did use the carvex base meant for metal as it generated a lot of sparks and I did not want to melt the shavings into the plastic base.  It worked as designed.  And I was really impressed with the cuts.  I'm sure for aluminum, it will do great.  And I did not use any lubricant, just the right blade.

neil

 

[BeCalm]

Thanks Neil, that is very encouraging. Maybe Festool really figured something out here........................I'll  go this week and buy one, and we'll see.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

) Chop saws are a no no. Higher rpms burn the edge. You will have to follow up and finish the edge somehow. Sander.

Some companies, ahem, have track saws and miter saws that have blades for aluminum and the ability to slow the blade speed.  [wink]

 

[rmwarren]

) Chop saws are a no no. Higher rpms burn the edge. You will have to follow up and finish the edge somehow. Sander.

Some companies, ahem, have track saws and miter saws that have blades for aluminum and the ability to slow the blade speed.  [wink]

And I can attest that they work great. Just set the depth of cut to 50mm while cutting 3/4" material on the MFT...

Didn't even need a special blade.

RMW

 

[rmwarren]

And I can attest that they work great. Just set the depth of cut to 50mm while cutting 3/4" material on the MFT...
RMW

you have cut 3/4" aluminum plate?
How did you get it up on the table?
If it ever comes up my friends fab shop would do that on a plasma table. Forklift it over.
.
Hopefully my post drove home the point about speed differences.
yes, at proper blade speed and blade rated for alum it can be done.
You will figure out the feed rate, the tool will let you know.
.
the blade on the multicutter is 72t /14" AEG as shown.
Looks like it will handle cheap steel but there isnt anything less than 1018 (low carbon) on property.

I put the stickers on it for obvious reasons, chop saws and multicutters are two different animals.
I have to wear alot of hats and try my best to remember everything.
.
I will look at the Festool for this thanks.

My comment was tongue-in-cheek, I was cutting 3/4 wood and set the TS55 blade too deep and cut into the aluminum MFT extrusion.

For AL I have the Milwaukee multi-cutting saw, used with an Oshlun AL blade. I sold my Dewalt/bought the Milwaukee because I hated the Dewalt's clamp, it kept slipping on me. Both saws cut steel and AL great, I would never go back to an abrasive chop saw for steel.

RMW