Introduction
Aluminum extrusion is a process by which aluminum is heated and then forced through a die in order to create shapes. These shapes can be used for a variety of applications, such as window frames, door frames, furniture, and more. However, before the aluminum extrusion can be used, it must first be cut into the desired size and shape. In this article, we will explore various ways of cutting aluminum extrusion, including by hand saw, miter saw, circular saw, band saw, hacksaw, angle grinder, and plasma cutter.
Use a Hand Saw
Using a hand saw is one of the most common methods of cutting aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using a hand saw include its affordability, portability, and simplicity. It is also relatively quiet compared to other power tools.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with a hand saw. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with a hand saw, hold the saw firmly, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the blade perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the blade to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Utilize a Miter Saw
Using a miter saw is another popular method for cutting aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using a miter saw include its accuracy and speed, as well as its ability to make angled cuts. It is also relatively safe to use, as long as you take the proper precautions.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with a miter saw. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with a miter saw, adjust the blade to the desired angle, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the blade perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the blade to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Employ a Circular Saw
Using a circular saw is another effective method of cutting aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using a circular saw include its speed and power, as well as its ability to make straight cuts. However, it should be noted that circular saws can be dangerous if not used properly.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with a circular saw. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with a circular saw, set the depth of the blade, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the blade perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the blade to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Try a Band Saw
Using a band saw is another option for cutting aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using a band saw include its accuracy and versatility, as well as its ability to make curved cuts. However, it should be noted that band saws can be dangerous if not used properly.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with a band saw. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with a band saw, set the speed of the blade, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the blade perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the blade to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Opt for a Hacksaw
Using a hacksaw is another possible option for cutting aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using a hacksaw include its affordability, portability, and simplicity. It is also relatively quiet compared to other power tools.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with a hacksaw. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with a hacksaw, hold the saw firmly, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the blade perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the blade to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Choose an Angle Grinder
Using an angle grinder is another option for cutting aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using an angle grinder include its speed and power, as well as its ability to make straight and angled cuts. However, it should be noted that angle grinders can be dangerous if not used properly.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with an angle grinder. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with an angle grinder, adjust the blade to the desired angle, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the blade perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the blade to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Deploy a Plasma Cutter
Using a plasma cutter is another way to cut aluminum extrusion. The benefits of using a plasma cutter include its speed and precision, as well as its ability to make intricate cuts. However, it should be noted that plasma cutters can be dangerous if not used properly.
When preparing the area for cutting, make sure that you have a flat, sturdy surface to work on. Place the aluminum extrusion on the surface and secure it with clamps. If you are cutting multiple pieces of aluminum extrusion, measure and mark them first so that you know exactly where to cut.
Safety is an important consideration when cutting aluminum extrusion with a plasma cutter. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, keep your hands away from the nozzle and cutting arc at all times.
To cut the aluminum extrusion with a plasma cutter, set the speed and power of the cutter, then start cutting slowly and steadily. Keep the nozzle perpendicular to the aluminum extrusion and follow the line that you made earlier. When you reach the end of the cut, stop and wait for the cutter to stop spinning before releasing your grip.
Conclusion
Cutting aluminum extrusion can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the desired results and the tools available. The most common methods of cutting aluminum extrusion include using a hand saw, miter saw, circular saw, band saw, hacksaw, angle grinder, and plasma cutter. Each method has its own unique benefits and safety considerations, so it is important to review these before starting any project. With the right preparation and the right tools, cutting aluminum extrusion can be a relatively straightforward task.