Can a Scroll Saw Cut Metal – Guideline from Expert

A scroll saw is a machine used for cutting wood and other materials. It works by moving a blade up and down in a controlled motion, allowing users to make intricate cuts. Many people don’t know that a scroll saw can also be used to cut metal. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the process of using a scroll saw to cut metal and some of the benefits and drawbacks of this method. We’ll also provide tips on getting the best results when using a scroll saw to cut metal. Stay tuned!

Can a Scroll Saw Cut Metal?

Yes, a scroll saw can cut metal. Scroll saws are not just for woodworking; they can be used to cut various materials, including metal. The key to successfully cutting metal with a scroll saw is to use the right blade. Two main blades can be used for Cutting metal: high-speed steel (HSS) blades and carbon steel blades. 

How Thick of Material Can a Scroll Saw Cut?

The blade of a scroll saw is much thinner than a traditional saw and can be turned in various directions to create curves and other shapes. Scroll saws are often used for detailed work, such as cutting inlays or creating decorative patterns.

So, how thick of material can a scroll saw cut? Most scroll saws can cut through up to 2 inches of comprehensive material. Some scroll saws may be able to cut through thicker material, but this will generally require a more powerful motor and a different blade. 

If you are looking to cut through thicker material, it is essential to consult your scroll saw’s manual to determine the maximum cutting thickness. With the right blade and settings, you should be able to successfully cut through any material that is 2 inches or less in thickness.

What Materials Can a Scroll Saw Cut? 

A scroll saw can cut various materials, including cold-rolled steel, bronze, aluminum, copper, brass, and more. The thickness of the material that a scroll saw can cut depends on a few factors, such as the type of blade used and the amount of pressure applied. For example, a scroll saw with a fine-toothed blade can cut thinner materials than a scroll saw with a coarse-toothed blade.

A scroll saw can cut material up to 3/16 of an inch thick when it comes to cold-rolled steel. With this kind of thickness, the scroll saw can handle various projects, including bracelets, pendants, nameplates, and even model parts with great detail.

What Can You Not Do With a Scroll Saw?

A scroll saw is a versatile tool that can be used for various tasks, from simple crafts to intricate woodworking projects. However, there are some things that you should not attempt to do with a scroll saw. Here are four examples:

• Don’t try to cut curves that are too tight. The blades of a scroll saw are only so flexible, so if you try to cut a too-tight turn, the edge will break.
• Don’t try to cut very thick materials. A scroll saw is designed for cutting thinner materials, such as wood veneer or paper. If you try to cut something too thick, the blade will quickly become a dull and likely break.
• Don’t force the blade through the material. If the edge isn’t moving quickly, it’s likely because it’s not positioned correctly. Don’t try to force it; instead, stop and reposition the blade before continuing.
• Don’t use damaged blades. Damaged blades can cause the scroll saw to vibrate excessively, making it difficult to control and even leading to accidents. Always replace broken blades before using the saw again.

How Do You Cut Thick Metal? 

Cutting thick metal can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can easily cut through even the thickest sheet of metal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cutting dense metal using a scroll saw:

• Secure the metal to the scroll saw table using clamps or other devices. This will help to prevent the metal from moving during the cutting process.
• Choose a blade with a high tooth count for the best results. A higher tooth count will result in a smoother cut.
• Adjust the scroll saw’s speed settings according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A slower speed is typically better when cutting thicker materials.
• Begin cutting along the desired line, using steady and even pressure. If necessary, use a guide to help keep the blade on track.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for changing or sharpening blades as needed. Dull Blades can cause damage to the scroll saw or the material being cut. 
• When finished, unclamp the metal and remove it from the scroll saw table. Carefully remove any burrs or sharp edges using a file or grinder.

What Is Better: Scroll Saw vs Bandsaw?

Scroll saw

Scroll and band saws are both essential tools for woodworkers and metalworkers alike. But which one is the best choice for your next project? To help you decide, here is a detailed look at the critical differences between scroll and band saws.

Scroll saws are designed for making precise, intricate cuts in small pieces of wood. The blade on a scroll saw is much thinner than a band saw blade, which allows it to make tight turns and follow complex patterns. Scroll saws are also equipped with a table that tilts, making angled cuts possible. However, because of their small size and limited power, scroll saws are not well suited for making large or aggressive cuts.

Bandsaw

In contrast, band saws are designed for cutting large pieces of wood quickly and easily. The blade on a band saw is much broader than a scroll saw blade, which gives it more cutting power. Band saws also have a sturdy table that doesn’t tilt, making them ideal for straight cuts. However, because of their large size and powerful motor, band saws can be difficult to control, making them less suitable for precise cuts.

So, which is better: a scroll saw, or a band saw? The answer depends on the type of project you’re working on. If you need to make intricate cuts in small pieces of wood, a scroll saw is the best choice. But a band saw is better if you need to make large or aggressive cuts in larger pieces of wood or metal.

Can You Use a Wood Saw to Cut Metal? 

You can use woodcutting saw to cut metal, but it’s not the ideal tool for the job. Woodcutting saws are designed to cut through soft materials like wood and make smooth clean cuts. 

Metal is much harder than wood, so a woodcutting saw will make a rougher cut that is more likely to be jagged. Additionally, using woodcutting saw on metal puts extra strain on the blade, which can cause it to break. 

For these reasons, it’s best to use a handsaw or power saw explicitly designed for cutting metal. If you decide to employ a woodcutter on metal, choose one with a seven 1/4-inch blade and, even better, a worm drive blade for extra torque.

Is a Scroll Saw Worth It? 

If you’re wondering if a scroll saw is worth the investment, the answer is yes – and here’s why. 

• First of all, scroll saws are very accurate. This means that you can make precise cuts, which is essential for intricate projects. 
• Second, scroll saws are relatively easy to use. With just a little practice, you’ll be able to make clean, precise cuts. 
• Third, scroll saws are relatively inexpensive. You can find a good-quality scroll saw for around $120. 
• Fourth, scroll saws are versatile. You can use them to cut wood, metal, plastic, and even glass. 

How Can I Cut Metal at Home Without Tools?

If you need to cut metal but don’t have any tools handy, there are a few ways you can do it. With ingenuity, you can cut through metal using items that are likely already in your home. Here are a few methods to try:

• One way to cut metal is by using a strong magnet. If you have an interest that is strong enough, you can use it to pinch the metal together and then break it apart. You’ll need a powerful magnet for this to work, so it may not be an option if you don’t have one on hand. However, if you have a strong interest, this is a quick and easy way to cut metal.
• Another option is to use a string or cord. You can tie the string around the metal in a tight knot and then pull on the ends of the line until the metal snaps. This method takes more effort than a magnet, but it’s still fairly simple and doesn’t require special tools.
• Finally, you can also use heat to cut metal. If you have access to a stove or other heat source, you can heat the metal until it becomes soft and pliable. Once it’s quiet, you can bend it or shape it as needed. This method requires careful handling so that you don’t burn yourself, but it’s an effective way to cut metal without any tools.

What Is a Scroll Saw Good For? 

Scroll saws are often used to create decorative accent pieces, such as ornamental moldings or inlays. They can also cut through thick materials like plywood or metal plate. 

However, scroll saws are not limited to woodworking applications; they can be used to cut metal, plastic, or even stone. Scroll saws are available in various sizes and configurations, making them versatile tools that can be used for a wide range of projects.

Why Do I Keep Breaking Blades on My Scroll Saw?

One common cause of broken blades is incorrect installation. If the edge isn’t installed correctly, it can come loose during use and break. Ensure you follow the instructions in your scroll saw manual when installing blades, and check that they’re tight before using your saw.

Another common cause of broken blades is dullness. When blades get dull, they put more strain on the scroll saw motor, which can cause them to break. To avoid this, use sharp edges and replace them regularly. It would help if you also cleaned your blades frequently to keep them from getting gummed up with pitch or resin.

What Kind of Saw Blade Cuts Metal?

C-7 and C-9 saw blades are great for cutting aluminum and non-ferrous metals. It would help if you had an HSS (high-speed steel) blade for steel and ferrous metals. Bi-metal blades are the best saw blades for cutting metal because they are made of two different steel types. 

The teeth are made with HSS, while the body is made with spring steel. Spring steel is rigid and shatterproof. The teeth will stay sharp longer because they are more complex than the blade’s body. That means you won’t have to replace the blade as often. You can also get a diamond blade for cutting metal, but they are more expensive than bi-metal blades.

What Saws Can Be Used for Metal?

A few different types of saws can be used to cut metal. A jigsaw is a handheld saw that can make curved or straight cuts in metal. A bandsaw is a larger saw mounted on a table and can be used to make straight or curved cuts in metal. A chop saw is a stationary saw with a pivoting arm, mainly used to make straight cuts in metal. A cutoff saw is a handheld saw that is similar to a chop saw but smaller and easier to maneuver.

Can I Put a Metal Blade on a Miter Saw?

Metal-cutting blades are available in different diameters and teeth sizes to match the speed of varying miter saws. A slow-speed metal-cutting blade will cause the motor on a high-speed miter saw to overheat, potentially damaging the tool. Likewise, a high-speed blade can create too much vibration and wear down a low-speed saw more quickly. 

For these reasons, it’s essential to use a metal-cutting blade compatible with your specific miter saw. Whether you need a 4-, 6-, or 8-inch blade, there’s sure to be a metal-cutting blade on the market that will work with your tool. With the correct knife, you can safely and effectively cut through metal, making quick work of any project.

What Is the Best Saw for Cutting Metal?

DeWalt DW872 14″ Multi-Cutter Saw is a powerful, versatile metal-cutting saw that can handle a variety of materials. It features a 14-inch blade that can cut through metal up to 5 inches thick, making it perfect for various projects. The saw also has a built-in dust collector to keep your work area clean, and it comes with a carrying case for easy transport.

DeWalt DW872 metal cutting saw review and demo

FAQ

Conclusion

Scroll saws are great for cutting a variety of materials, including metal. When cutting metal, it’s essential to use the right saw and blade to avoid damaging the tool or material. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily cut through metal, making quick work of any project.