Been a lurker for a long time now, finally logging in as I could do with a little info; Just looking for recommendations for Jigsaw blades to cut 5mm Acrylic, I've already got some but they're not suited to cutting that thin. Fantus.
From what Ive heard and used at school (not right blades but still) acrylic always wants to crack when cut with a jigsaw.
If you use the wrong blades it will crack, Ive never had a piece crack using a fine toothed metal blade tbh, You do have to be careful of melting the perspex though. Ive always used festool blades, but thats only because the came with the saw, any fine toothed blade should do.
A Fine toothed Metal blade was what I was probably going to get, just wanted to hear someone else say it as well. I'm sure I've got some somewhere but I imagine they're blunt. Thanks.
Yeah make sure you use a new blade, a blunt one will just melt or even scorch the perspex, If i cut perspex i always use a new blade regardless of the use its had.
Well now I need to cut acrylic with a jigsaw. I have blades for cutting 2-3mm aluminium and a pack of mixed once. Will the alu ones be ok for acrylic?
^ As long as the blades are above 22 tpi with fine teeth they should work. ALWAYS test on a test piece first. I use these: http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-T-Shank-Jigsaw-Blades-Metal/dp/B000UMLQ9W/ref=pd_sim_hi_3 on 1/4" Acrylic and Polycarb.
It will help if you use some sort of cooling fluid or cutting lubricant, the blade will clog less. Fine teeth with a soft material such as acrylic will clog the blade quite quickly and if it gets too hot it will melt and you will spend ages picking it off the blade. Try a proper lube, only use a thin oil (such as WD-40) if you have very good ventilation as it will vapourise when it gets too hot and it is very, very bad for you with prolonged exposure. Most places that sell jigsaw blades should also sell cutting lubricant, don't use water that will not be any help at all.
get some metal blades. The teeth are usually in a "wavy" pattern, making them slightly wider than the actual blade. That means less friction, and less melting. If you want to cut thick plexi (5mm and upwards). A very sharp, medium toothed blade, and some lubricant will be best. If your jigsaw have a pendulum function you should set that to max as well. And most importantly, work slowly and stop often to let the blade cool down.
