Cutting through 1” acrylic

[Feet4Fish]

What would be everyone’s tool of choice for this task? I am trying to saw of the additions made to the top of the tank by previous owner for an antiquated hood design. My multi tool works but might take days. Should I go circular saw as the additions are flush with the back panel of the tank?

 

[Benga]

Depends on the application but i'd try and find someone with a CNC machine to make cuts for me.

With that thickness i'd be worried about heat and melting the acrylic.

 

[Feet4Fish]

Depends on the application but i'd try and find someone with a CNC machine to make cuts for me.

With that thickness i'd be worried about heat and melting the acrylic.

Sounds like a great idea but not practical here. The tank is a 650 gallon 1” acrylic tank so not so portable. Need to figure out a way I can do it onsite.

 

[Feet4Fish]

This is what I am trying to cut off.

 

[ca1ore]

How were they attached to the top - silicone or solvent welded? Assuming the latter, I guess I'd use a circular saw with a laminates blade.

 

[Feet4Fish]

Solvent weld. I will pick up one of those blades tonight. Thanks!

 

[stylaster]

you can also use a router to cut through it, ive done that but the bits are spendy

 

[Feet4Fish]

you can also use a router to cut through it, ive done that but the bits are spendy

Thanks

 

[cromag27 Verified Sponsor]

Use a router with a spiral flush trim bit.

 

[Matthew Frost]

DO NOT TRY AND CUT THAT OFF WITH A CIRCULAR SAW!!!!! The best tool will be a good router with a carbide flush trim bit. Try to get one that is 1/4", your problem is going to be keeping everything moving enough your keeping the heat down and getting the cut pieces (waste) away from the display. I would almost try a trickle of water on the cutting area to keep it cool.

 

[John3]

If you can keep the acrylic cold it will cut better and not melt as much. I used to cut smaller acrylic stuff on a Cnc router and I would pop it in a freezer before cutting and that helped produce a cleaner cut. I’d imagine it Would be the same for a handheld router. Be safe.

John