A carbide-tipped blade with a "triple chip" design is best. Table and overhead saws can be used.
Circular saws can be used to run in the range of 8,000 to 12,000 feet per minute. Three to five teeth per inch is recommended. Thicker gauges require fewer teeth per inch. Band saws can be used, but circular saws are preferred for straight cuts. Thin gauge sheets should be well supported up to the cutting blade.
Band saws should run 2,000 feet per minute and have three to 15 teeth per inch. Thicker gauges require fewer teeth per inch.
VIVAK® should be clamped and secured to avoid vibration, which will induce cracks in the sheet.
Sawing Recommendations
| Type of cut | Tool | Blade Type | Blade Parameters | Blade speed |
| Straight cut | Circular Saw | Triple-Chip Design | 7-1/4" diameter, 40 teeth(carbide-tipped cutoff) | 4,500 rpm |
| Curved cut | Saber or Jigsaw | Finish Cutting Blade | 7 teeth per inch | |
| Curved Cut | Band Saw | 1/2" | 3 teeth per inch | 2,000 ft/min |
| Trimming & Deflanging | Router | Carbide-Tipped or High-Speed Steel, Double Fluted | 3/8" diameter | 20,000 rpm |
VIVAK® can be laser cut in thicknesses up to 0.187". Consult the Laser cutter manufacture for more information. The laser's power and travel speed should be optimized to minimize the whitening of the VIVAK® Sheet.
Drilling
Drill bits specifically designed for plastic should be used. Standard twist drills are recommended.
Title: What should be used to cut VIVAK ® Sheet?
Description: Cutting information for cutting the VIVAK ® Sheet.
Published: 10/15/2008
Last Edited: 1/16/2023
Information disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by
United States Plastic Corp. and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or
warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with
respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose.
Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss
or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of materials, time or profits arising out of,
or in connection with, the use of this information.