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How can I cut PCB material? — Parallax Forums

How can I cut PCB material?

chronisterchronister Posts: 17
edited 2004-12-19 00:49 in General Discussion
Hi. What's a good way to cut PCB material? What tools do I need, and what different options do I have? Thanks for your help. Nathan

Comments

  • dandreaedandreae Posts: 1,375
    edited 2004-12-18 20:50
    Hello,

    A dremel can be used with a stone disc, or a tile saw depending on the size of the board.· I would make sure to wear gloves and safety goggles.

    Dave

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    ·
  • steve_bsteve_b Posts: 1,563
    edited 2004-12-18 20:53
    I've used a big paper cutter before.· It doesn't leave a GREAT edge...but it gets it into pieces I can handle.

    Bandsaws with metal blades would keep it nice.· Or one of those japanese wood saws (very thing).

    Otherwise, hacksaw and a file to clean the edge.


    I would only use a bandsaw if I was working with a pre-exposed board (pre-etched); if it was an "out of the package" board, I wouldn't worry about scuffing.

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    ·

    Steve
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    "Inside each and every one of us is our one, true authentic swing. Something we was born with. Something that's ours and ours alone. Something that can't be learned... something that's got to be remembered."
  • victorFvictorF Posts: 3
    edited 2004-12-18 21:06
    paper cutter,commercial floor tile cutter,tin snips, metal shear,band saw, table saw if it's a large board.
    be sure to use a mask if using the saws.
    victor
  • steve_bsteve_b Posts: 1,563
    edited 2004-12-18 21:08
    YEs, definately have ventialion or a mask if cutting too much of this stuff.

    It's basically a fibreglass isn't it?· FR ratings and all?

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    ·

    Steve
    http://members.rogers.com/steve.brady
    http://www.geocities.com/paulsopenstage

    "Inside each and every one of us is our one, true authentic swing. Something we was born with. Something that's ours and ours alone. Something that can't be learned... something that's got to be remembered."
  • Robert KubichekRobert Kubichek Posts: 343
    edited 2004-12-18 21:17
    Try a scroll saw with a fine blade, as it is great for odd sizes and small jobs. Be sure to use a mask!!
  • BeanBean Posts: 8,129
    edited 2004-12-18 21:44
    At my work we use a sheet metal shear, works great.
    Bean.
  • bobledouxbobledoux Posts: 187
    edited 2004-12-18 22:22
    I cut PCB and non-ferous metals using a carbide tipped blade on a tablesaw. A router table and carbide bit also works.
  • JonathanJonathan Posts: 1,023
    edited 2004-12-18 22:50
    Nathan,

    I cut PCB material using a chop saw with a combi blade. Works great and is very easy to keep the boards square with a clean cut.

    Jonathan



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  • ForrestForrest Posts: 1,341
    edited 2004-12-19 00:05
    A metal sheer is what I've used at work - but there isn't room in my garage for one of these beasts. At home, I used a Dremel rotary with a disc cutter to score both sides and then snap it apart.
  • NewzedNewzed Posts: 2,503
    edited 2004-12-19 00:13
    I've got one of these with a tungsten blade.· Fantastic little tool!

    http://www.productiveworkspace.com/ProxxonSaw.asp

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    ·
  • Tracy AllenTracy Allen Posts: 6,656
    edited 2004-12-19 00:49
    If you are making small boards, consider using 0.032" thick material instead of 0.064". Okay for boards less than 1 or 2 inches across, and it makes the cutting _much_ easier. If you are ordering boards from Alberta Printed Circuits, they will do the boards in the thin material at no extra charge.

    Dremel cutoff wheels (0.025" thick or heavy duty 0.042") do a good job for small boards, with the madrel chucked in a lathe or drill press, and the board on a cross slide. A nibbling tool is also very useful. I have a 36 inch Beach foot operated board cutter that I picked up from an ad in a flea market paper. I wouldn't part with it!

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    Tracy Allen
    www.emesystems.com
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