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jigsaw vs Router to cut ACM
Hi All
Never thought about it much and will try find time to do my own tests but thought I’d ask for feedback on anybody else’s experience.
I want to shape cut some large ACM panels that already have laminated print applied, I’ve always cut with a jigsaw prior to applying prints but wondered if a router would be easier and neater to do the shape cutting and how will it effect the print that’s on the board?
Cheers
Warren
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5 Replies
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Assuming you are using a hand router then you’ll need to make a jig first and then use a router tip with a guide bearing on it, Trend router tips, I’ve found, are very good.
It’s easy enough to produce a jig from 9mm ply or MDF of course, the finished shape will only be as good as the original, but the tricky bit is clamping it down onto the ACM so that you can run all the way round it, I’ve used toggle clamps but they are a bit time consuming. Inside corners will always have a radius.On balance I would say a jig saw is much quicker and if you’re good with a jigsaw the edges will be practically as good, I always go round the edges with a file regardless. You will need to leave on or apply some application tape to the print face to prevent the jigsaw shoe from leaving scratches
I think I would only use a router if I had to produce a number of identical shapes.
Hope that helps
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Warren
If you have a router with a downcut spiral bit you can get a really clean edge – the downcut pushes the graphic against the ACM so it wont fray.I suppose If you are jigsawing, use teeth that point downwards (Never seen such a thing but I assume they are available) for the same reason. I often CNC cut letters with vinyl laminated to acrylic with very good results. If using an Upcut spiral you will, of course, have to cut with the graphic facing down. Same result.
Simon. -
If you have a steady hand then a jifsaw is probably going to be your best bet as Steve says, router will give a clean edge but difficult to see where you are cutting unless you go to the trouble of making templates or jigs. cover the graphic to protect it from the jigsaw shoe & use something like a laminate blade which gives a good finish on both sides.
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Warren
has someone said maybe try a reverse cut bladehttp://cdn.toolstation.com/images/13012 … =548756915
Kev
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Thanks guys, I’m going to give them a try, I was going to freehand the router as the shape in this case doesn’t have to be 100%
Will check out the up cut blades and see how it all turns out 😉
Cheers guys
Warren
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