cutting acrylic?

[oxx44]

ummm I just went to the shop to turn a new pen and realized I lent my scroll saw out, and now have no way to cut my blank.
My question is can I cut it with a compound mitre saw? i only have a 40 and a 60 tooth blades for it. I am afraid this will be to little to do the job and ruin the blank.
Does anyone use their mitre saw to cut acrylic and if so what set up do you have?

 

[Rmartin]

You can use a 60 tooth blade to cut plastics. It will dull your blade quicker. It's best to make a zero fence when cutting small pieces.

 

[rjwolfe3]

I used to use mine - just used whatever blade came with it. Use my band saw now. Heck you can use a hand miter saw if you have a box with it.

 

[Lenny]

You can use a 60 tooth blade to cut plastics. It will dull your blade quicker. It's best to make a zero fence when cutting small pieces.

I agree .... at the very least be sure to use a piece of scrap to back it up.

I've also used a fine tooth handsaw, a sabersaw with a fine blade will work too. You could probably cut it with a hacksaw as well.

 

[oxx44]

thanks all for the useful info.
My 60 tooth carbide tip went through the acrylic perfectly. better than my scroll saw did. I just need to be careful because I do lose more material. but a nicer cut for sure. I dont think im in such a rush to get the scroll back now. lol

 

[GaryMGg]

Make sure you make a zero-tolerance throat plate for your miter saw and add hold-downs.
It doesn't have to be complicated and it doesn't take long.
Something as simple as two pieces of 1/4" plywood attached with carpet tape works along with a couple of screw clamps.
Too often, folks don't use safety equipment when cutting such small items.
Then, after they get hurt they wonder why they didn't heed advice.

Remember, IF the diameter of the blade is larger than the item your cutting, your mitts are in the circle of blood.

 

[snyiper]

Good rule of thumb Gary I never heard that!!

 

[AlanZ]

How about a hack saw?

 

[Lenny]

I usually use my bandsaw,(and think it is probably the safest method), but since I moved my Jet mini into the basement and I'm too lazy to run out to the shop, I just use my Japanese saw which looks a little like this ...