If you are planning to work with metal, it’s essential to know the most appropriate tools for cutting it. Having the right metal cutting tools is crucial to safely and effectively work with this challenging material.
Types of Metal Cutting Tools
While metal cutting tools have been in use since ancient times, their widespread adoption occurred during the Industrial Revolution, thanks to the growth of metallurgy. Now, let’s delve into some of the most relevant tools.
Hand Saw
One of the most common metal cutting tools resembles a wood saw but features a sturdier steel blade with teeth designed for metal cutting. It comes with a robust C-shaped frame and a handle for ease of use. The saw accommodates interchangeable blades with varying tooth counts, allowing you to cut bars, tubes, and profiles up to 30 mm thick.
Initiate the cut with a slight incline to the horizontal, gradually tilting the saw as the cut progresses. These saws are categorized based on their teeth per inch, with standard ones having between 14 and 32 teeth per inch, ideal for general cutting, while those with more teeth excel at fine cutting.
Shears
Operating like a large pair of scissors, shears apply pressure to the arms, causing the sharp blades to cut when they meet. Longer arm lengths provide greater cutting pressure.
Keyhole Saw
This is a lightweight, variable-speed electric metal cutting tool featuring a free-end saw blade in a perpendicular position. Designed for two-handed use, it’s particularly useful for creating curved and sinuous cuts in sheets.
Circular Saw
Available in manual or electric models, the circular saw boasts a circular disc for precise longitudinal or transverse straight-line cuts. The disc may be constructed from ultra-resistant materials like tungsten carbide (wolfram).
When cutting metal, it’s advisable to use circular saw blades with the smallest diameter possible to enhance stability during cutting and reduce the gap width. Power and cutting speed are critical factors when selecting the appropriate saw, with an optimal range typically falling between 50 and 95 meters per second.
Grinder
This versatile, lightweight tool is suitable for cutting thin metals and excels at curved cuts. It accommodates circular discs of various diameters (115, 125, 230 mm) and can also be equipped with metal grinding or polishing wheels. The disc’s parallel placement to the motor assembly enables forceful usage.
Band Saw
An electric saw that operates on the same plane, it’s essential to apply coolant when cutting metal to prevent overheating and prolong the saw’s lifespan. Some band saws are automatic and can be programmed with preset speeds, making them ideal for workshops handling larger and thicker cuts.
Metal Cutting Tips
In addition to selecting the right metal cutting tools. Proper usage and safety precautions are crucial for optimal results and accident prevention. Here are some essential tips for working with metal:
- Before starting the cut, clearly mark the lines using chalk or a marker and determine which part of the piece to keep and which to discard.
- Ensure that the metal cutting tools are positioned as close to 90 degrees (perpendicular) as possible to achieve a precise cut.
- To prevent movement during cutting, adequately support and immobilize the piece. This can be achieved using a clamp or a workbench. Neglecting this step may result in unexpected shifts and subpar work.
- Prioritize safety by wearing protective clothing and equipment. Such as cut-resistant gloves and safety glasses, to shield against iron shavings or sparks. Safety should always be your top priority.
At JIAYI Tools Co., we offer a wide range of metal cutting tools and carbide cutting tools designed for precision and reliability, especially for CNC machines. Our carbide cutting bits are the preferred choice for those seeking top-quality tools. Explore our catalog, visit our showroom to see our available tools, or contact us with any questions you may have. Your satisfaction is our goal.
