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#4
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In article ,
Ernest Christley wrote: I've got some .035 4130 that I have to cut elevon ribs from. 2 inch on one end, 3/8ths on the other and about 16" long (each one is a different length). The small end fits against a run of tube, the thick end against the elevon spar. Both ends have to be shaped appropriately. The sides of the long runs need to be perfectly straight. I've seen a lot of options on how to cut aluminum, but the info on steel seems to be more limited. Here's where I'm at so far. A shear big and strong enough to handle the job is currently out of my budget. (though, I keep hearing that the economy is coming back around) Harbor Freight has a $35 cutting tool that can handle the job according to the advertised specs. It sorta, kinda looks like an angle grinder, except that it has a short arm and a reciprocating tooth out one side. I figure I can drill a 3/8" hole, clamp a 2x4 to each side of the sheet as guides, and just make a run with the cutter. Anyone have experience with these things? Do they leave a clean edge? Another option is to pay a machine shop. If I can find a good shop, I'm sure to get quality work, but I can't say that I did it and I won't have a tool afterward. I'm saving that as a last resort. Are there any better options? I have a very large pair of sheet metal shears thet I have use to cut ..032 4130. It takes a lot of effort, but is doable. |
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