how to cut aluminum angle

how to cut aluminum angle

 

Aluminium angles are a part of many construction and DIY projects. Light, strong and resistant to corrosion, aluminum is the material choice of professionals and amateurs alike. Whether you are building a frame, putting together a piece of furniture or doing an elaborate art project, the ability to cut aluminum angle will come in handy. What this guide is going to do is take you one step at a time through the process to ensure that you cut smoothly, accurately & do not take longer time than you require.

 

Understanding Aluminum Angle

 

Aluminum angle is essentially a product generated by taking a solid item of aluminum and bending it between the 90-degree angle. Its strength vs weight ratio, a variety of thicknesses and lengths (or lack of, all different shapes out there) make it ideal from structural supports of lodging, frames, brackets, and even trims, among others.

 

Before even cutting material, ensure you know the properties of the particular material in question. Aluminum is less resilient than steel so takes less effort to cut but is prone to bending and warping if not handled correctly. So choosing the correct tools and techniques is going to be vital for a successful cut.

 

Selecting the Right Tools

 

The right tools are half the battle to a good cut. The following are some of the tools used to cut aluminum angle:

Manual Saws

A fine saw easily cuts aluminum angle. Fairly cheap, but still a manual process and therefore better used for smaller jobs or one-off uses.

Miter Saws — If you have a miter saw which can be fitted with a metal cutting blade you are able to get fast accurate cuts. They’re also well suited for straight or angled cuts and repeated work.

 

Power Tools

 

Circular Saws — A circular saw fitted with a non-ferrous metal (aluminum) cutting blade is also useful for cutting heavier sections of aluminum angle. And so, you have to tightly secure the material so it doesn’t shift.

 

Jigsaws: you can use a jigsaw that has a metal cutting blade for detailed cuts or where a straight line is not a must. They are not all that precise but tend to be slower than other methods.

 

Band Saws: A band saw gives you a nice combination between the accuracy of the cut and how quickly you can cut through the piece, which makes it a great option for when you have a thicker or larger piece of the aluminum angle. They are also used to make curved or complex cuts.

 

Stationary Machines

 

Chop saws: Very powerfull tools, chop saws or cut-off saws can quickly cut Aluminum angle straight. These are excellent for cutting large quantities.

 

CNC Machining: If industrial applications or precision is the priority, CNC machines are the way to go. But they are quite an investment, and often over the top for simple cutting tasks.

 

Safety First

 

Like any metalworking task, cutting aluminum requires a safety-minded approach. Kill your motor This is what a simple DIY aluminum cutting tool looks like Tools Equipment Protective gear Eye protection, gloves to avoid injury Ear protection Clamp the aluminum angle in a vice or using clamps to ensure that it does not move when cutting it. Always ensure the cutting area is clear and well-lit.

 

Measuring and Marking

 

When you measure and mark your cut line it is crucial that you are veracious. You’ll need to ensure that all your lines are correct and straight, so the measuring tape and the carpenter’s square come in handy. Trace the line with a permanent marker or scribing tool for better visibility.

 

The Cutting Process

Here’s how to prepare to cut:

Step 1 — Secure Your Aluminum Angle in Your Work Area

Double-check your measurements and markings.

 

Put on your safety gear.

 

Begin to cut along the etched line, putting pressure and speed evenly.

 

With a power tool, let the blade do the work — don’t force the tool through the material.

 

After the cut is done, use a file or sandpaper to eliminate burrs or sharp edges.

 

Finishing Touches

 

After all that cutting, you’re likely going to want to clean up the edges. Use a file to touch up areas for a smooth finish You may also want to polish up any cut, exposed ends of the aluminum angle in your project with sandpaper or a buffing wheel.

 

Tool Maintenance and Care

 

Proper maintenance will ensure that your tools are ready for you when you need them and prolong their life cycle. Cleaning the blades after each and every use, because if any aluminum remains on the steel blades it could revert into corrosion. Sharpen or replace blades, as needed, to keep cuts clean and to reduce the amount of work required.

 

Conclusion

 

Cutting aluminum angle is relatively simple provided that you use the right tools and the right technique. Having some awareness of the material, choosing the right method for cutting it, putting safety first, and following the steps we will cover in this guide you will make every cut as professional possible! Whether you are experienced with or just trying out DIY you will gain both the skills to make a project look good and the experience to broaden your abilities by learning to cut aluminum angle.