Worried that sharp tools can cause injury? Do not let this problem get in the way of completing your work. But how to cut metal accurately? No worries. This article will provide beginners with the best cutting method. We try to cover as many ways with some popular tools as possible. Pick one you already have at home and do it right now.
How To Cut Metal In Different Ways?
1. Use Grinder Discs
You can use a sharp metal cutter for most metals, such as angle iron, sheet metal, or rebar. An outstanding advantage of this device is that it can be operated by hand with ease.
Here is how to cut metal with grinder discs:
- Fix the workpiece clamp at the position to be cut. Check that the object is firmly held and cannot be moved while working.
- Set up the discs correctly. It is best to start the device and let it work for 5 minutes to check for errors.
- Position the blade at a 90-degree angle to the workpiece so that the guard is between the workpiece and the user.
- It would help if you started where the metal is thinnest to reduce friction. For example, the correct position is at the corner of box-shaped objects or I-beams. During the cutting process, let the disc work naturally and avoid applying too much external force.
There are three common types of cutting discs: abrasive metal discs, fiberglass-reinforced discs, and diamond discs. We recommend the latter because it provides faster cutting, long service life, and excellent functionality around sensitive areas.
2. Utilize Circular Saws
Circular saws can cut mild steel with a thickness of about 3/8 inch. Carbide blades often produce better work results and save time.
You can stack metal sheets and cut them simultaneously if the quality of the blade is good enough. Let’s get to work right away:
- Pre-determine the direction of blade movement and mark on the sheet metal.
- Set the cutting position according to the following principle: there is always a favorable space for the blade on the underside to move.
- Connect the device to a power source. Place the saw blade in the correct starting point and press the trigger to increase the force. Then, slowly slide the blade into the metal, following the cut path created earlier.
Above is how to cut metal with a circular saw. Be careful; you may have to endure hot metal fragments from the blade. On the downside, this device does not work well for stainless steel.
3. Use Tin Snips
We recommend tin snips to all beginners due to their simple use as a pair of scissors. However, it is only useful for soft and sheet metals.
How to cut metal with tin snips? Follow those steps below:
- Hold tin snips with your dominant hand and objects with your other hand.
- Open the blade widely and insert the metal plate between the two blades. Lightly squeeze the handle to cut.
4. Get Band Saws
The above devices are only suitable for light metals, so how to cut metal in bulk? Undoubtedly, the band saw becomes your savior. It even works well with tubes, angles, and some complex custom shapes. Here is how to do it:
- Push the metal plate into the vise grip and place it perpendicular to the blade.
- Turn on the machine and slowly move the saw blade towards the object. Then increase the impact force on the metal piece.
- Based on the specific situation, adjust the appropriate force until the job is done.
Tips For Safe Metal Cutting
No matter what method you cut metal, safety is always a must. It would be best to keep in mind the following things to minimize the dangerous situations that may arise for yourself and those around you.
- Read the manual instructions: of the tool you intend to use. Technical testing is also essential after a long period of inactivity.
- Check the compatibility: of the blade and the metal plate. For example, some equipment cannot cut stainless steel. Improper use may cause damage to the device and the cutting object.
- Wear protective gear: including glasses, ear protection, face shield, and hand gloves. You should also cover your arms and legs with flame retardant materials because your body may suffer from sparks or hot metal pieces thrown out of the cutting equipment during work.
- Work in a safe environment: It is best to move flammable substances out of the work area. Do not allow others to access unless they have full protective gear.
In Conclusion
This article has just shown you how to cut metal with various tools. You may go through many difficulties with the first project. However, the more you practice, the faster you get used to your device. We hope you will find the above information helpful in practice. As the last word, remember to always prioritize your safety before anything else.
