Can I use diamond hole saw on acrylic?

Zar

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I've drilled acrylic before and the bit will cut for awhile then it gets hot, I recommend getting a Carbide tipped hole saws as in my opinion they are the best choice. Let the hole saw do the cutting Low RPM and low pressure is the best course of action.
 

ca1ore

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Diamond grit hole saws don’t cut as much as they grind .... completely inappropriate for acrylic where you actually are cutting. Any good quality bimetal is my go to for holes in plastic.
 
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Jvesche20

Jvesche20

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Diamond grit hole saws don’t cut as much as they grind .... completely inappropriate for acrylic where you actually are cutting. Any good quality bimetal is my go to for holes in plastic.
image.jpg

will this work? Just went to Home Depot and got this
 

ca1ore

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Yes, a good hole saw is not cheap.
 

coreytrv

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Following up on this for any additional tips on thick acrylic? Here's the scenario:

Drilling emergency overflow drain at top of acrylic tank.
The lip of the tank would prevent finishing with router template.
Hole size 1-7/8"
Acrylic is 1-1/2" thick.

Here's what I've gathered. Use arbor attachment, water, scrap wood on back (to prevent punch through damage)
Bi-metal carbide drill bit?

Any additional thoughts are appreciated!

 

Jason_MrFrags

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Just make sure your far enough away from the joint or edge for the bulkhead nut and flange.

Start on the one side. When the center bit punches through. Finish drilling from other side to prevent any punchout
 
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coreytrv

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Just make sure your far enough away from the joint or edge for the bulkhead nut and flange.

Start on the one side. When the center bit punches through. Finish drilling from other side to prevent any punchout
Tank is butted up against a wall, no access to other side, can only drill from inside.

Is there another way to minimize punch through damage?
 

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