A rotary tool is a versatile and handy device that can be used for various tasks, such as sanding, polishing, carving, engraving, and cutting. But can you cut metal with a rotary tool? The answer is yes, you can cut metal with a rotary tool, as long as you use the right accessories and follow some safety precautions. In this article, we will explain how to cut metal with a rotary tool, what kind of accessories you need, and what are the benefits and drawbacks of using a rotary tool for metal cutting.
To cut metal with a rotary tool, you will need a metal cutting wheel or disc that is compatible with your tool. Metal cutting wheels are usually made of abrasive materials, such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide, that can grind through metal quickly and efficiently. There are different types and sizes of metal cutting wheels, depending on the thickness and hardness of the metal you want to cut. Some examples are:
Fiberglass reinforced cut-off wheels: These are thin and sturdy wheels that can cut through thin metal sheets, wires, nails, screws, and bolts. They are suitable for cutting soft metals, such as aluminum, copper, brass, and bronze.
Diamond cut-off wheels: These are thicker and more durable wheels that can cut through hard metals, such as steel, iron, stainless steel, and titanium. They are also good for cutting ceramic, glass, and stone.
EZ Lock metal cut-off wheels: These are specially designed wheels that can be attached and detached from the rotary tool easily and securely, without the need for a screw or a wrench. They can cut through most metals, except for very hard ones, such as hardened steel.
To cut metal with a rotary tool, you will also need a cutting guide or a clamp to hold the metal in place and prevent it from moving or slipping. You should also wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, to avoid injuries from sparks, metal shavings, and dust. Here are the steps to follow:
Mark the line where you want to cut the metal with a pencil or a marker.
Attach the metal cutting wheel to the rotary tool and tighten it securely.
Plug in the rotary tool and set the speed to the highest setting. The faster the speed, the smoother the cut.
Place the metal on a flat and stable surface and secure it with a cutting guide or a clamp. Make sure there is enough space around the metal for the rotary tool to move freely.
Hold the rotary tool firmly and steadily, and align the cutting wheel with the marked line. Do not press too hard on the metal, as this can damage the wheel and the tool. Let the wheel do the work and gently guide it along the line.
Cut the metal in one continuous motion, without stopping or changing the direction. If the metal is thick or hard, you may need to make several passes to cut through it completely.
Turn off the rotary tool and unplug it. Remove the metal from the cutting guide or the clamp and inspect the cut. You may need to file or sand the edges to smooth them out and remove any burrs.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Rotary Tool for Metal Cutting
Using a rotary tool for metal cutting has some advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type and size of the metal you want to cut and the quality and performance of the rotary tool and the accessories you use. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of using a rotary tool for metal cutting:
Benefits
A rotary tool is a compact and lightweight device that can be easily handled and maneuvered, especially in tight spaces and corners.
A rotary tool can cut metal with precision and accuracy, creating clean and smooth cuts.
A rotary tool can cut metal in different shapes and angles, allowing you to create custom designs and patterns.
A rotary tool can cut metal without generating much heat, reducing the risk of warping or melting the metal.
A rotary tool can cut metal without producing much noise, making it a quiet and discreet option.
Drawbacks
A rotary tool can only cut metal that is thin or soft, as it does not have enough power or torque to cut through thick or hard metal.
A rotary tool can wear out quickly and require frequent replacement of the metal cutting wheels, as they can break or dull easily.
A rotary tool can create a lot of sparks, metal shavings, and dust, which can be hazardous to your health and safety.
A rotary tool can be difficult to control and stabilize, especially at high speeds, resulting in uneven or jagged cuts.
Conclusion
A rotary tool is a useful and versatile device that can cut metal with ease and efficiency, as long as you use the right accessories and follow some safety precautions. A rotary tool can cut metal in different shapes and angles, creating clean and smooth cuts. However, a rotary tool can only cut metal that is thin or soft, as it does not have enough power or torque to cut through thick or hard metal. A rotary tool can also wear out quickly and create a lot of sparks, metal shavings, and dust, which can be hazardous to your health and safety. Therefore, you should always wear protective gear, use a cutting guide or a clamp, and check the condition of the rotary tool and the metal cutting wheels before and after each use.
We hope this article has answered your question of “Can you cut metal with a rotary tool?” and provided you with some useful information and tips on how to cut metal with a rotary tool. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading!
