What type of saw?
Typically, you would use an overhead panel saw, below table saw, or a table saw. For thinner sheets 0.177" or thinner, you can use a jigsaw, band saw, or scroll saw. You can use a band saw or jigsaw for thicker material, but the edges will be very rough. For thicker material, table and panel saws are best. Whatever saw you choose, there must be minimal vibration and enough power to make the required cuts.
What type of blade?
A carbide-tipped blade with a triple-chip design is best. This type of blade will give you the most uniform cuts. For the longevity of the blade, you should only use it when cutting acrylics.
What common blade diameters and tooth selections are used for cutting acrylic sheets?
- 10" diameter, 60 and 80 teeth
- 12" diameter, 60,80, and 100 teeth
- 14" diameter, 60,80, and 100 teeth
Size and teeth per blade depend upon the thickness of the acrylic cut. Thinner sheets require more teeth than thicker sheets.
What are the main problems encountered when cutting acrylic sheet?
Chipping
| Causes | Solutions |
| Feed rate to fast | Reduce feed rate |
| Incorrect number of teeth | Change blade, increasing number of teeth; the optimum number of teeth is 80 for a 25.4 cm ( 10 inch) blade |
| Improper bade design | Change blade, use a triple chip No-Melt |
| Teeth out of alignment | Check alignment, change blade |
| Blade or Arbor wobble | Check run out, repair saw |
| Blade height incorrect | Adjust blade setting; review comments in Section II for correct positioning |
Melting
| Causes | Solutions |
| Feed Rate too slow | Check tip angle (60°)
Check rake angle (0° to 4°) |
| Incorrect number of teeth | Change blade, decrease the number of teeth from 80 to 60 for a 25.4 cm (10 inch) blade |
| Improper blade design | Change blade, use triple chip No-Melt |
| Dull blade | Change blade |
| Insufficient cooling | Add water mist or air to cool blade |
Title: What do I use to cut Acrylic?
Description: Questions and answers on cutting acrylic sheet.
Published: 10/31/2007
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.