Cutting Aluminum Scrap

March 17, 2018, 12:51 PM

Hurricane Irma killed my pool screen. As a consequence, I've got a couple of hundred pounds of 2x2 and 6" U channel aluminum that I need to cut to 6' lengths for recycling. I plan to use a Skil Worm Drive saw to do the cutting, but need blade advice.

I have a bunch of 24 tooth GP blades that I can use, but don't know if I need a specific aluminum cutting blade. The only aluminum specific blades for sale around me are Diablo brand, and they run between $35 and $45 each. I'm not real excited about paying that to rough cut recycling if I don't need to do so.

Can I use GP blades for this, or do I need to buy something specific?

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March 17, 2018, 01:00 PM

sigmonkey

If you have a chop saw a TCG non-ferrous blade will make fast work and you won't be fighting with torsion and binding while trying to handle the saw and work.

I used to cut channel for screen porches, shower enclosures and such, and it was perfect for the work.

(you still should use that type blade no matter the saw)

March 17, 2018, 01:02 PM

ffemt44

Any 4” grinder with a metal blade will work. The blades burn up quick but are like $20 for an box of 25

March 17, 2018, 01:38 PM

arcwelder

If it cuts wood, it will cut AL.

Arc.
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March 17, 2018, 01:44 PM

bendable

is there a rental shop in the vicinity ? that will rent you one for $12.00 for four hours?

dig this crazy device:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dk4KG2ZO6Zs

I think gage and desoto called it a K12

March 17, 2018, 02:11 PM

PHPaul

Yup, any chop saw with carbide blade and the more teeth the better.

I even cut 1/4" aluminum plate on my table saw. Just use a relatively inexpensive Diablo carbide blade, saved for that task only.

EYE AND EAR PROTECTION A MUST. It's LOUD and hot chips go everywhere. Glasses are better than nothing, but a full face shield is best.

March 17, 2018, 02:12 PM

PeteF

Couple hundred lbs of aluminum is worth some bucks to a scrapper. They would just come and take it away.

March 17, 2018, 02:54 PM

ArtieS

quote:
Couple hundred lbs of aluminum is worth some bucks to a scrapper. They would just come and take it away.

I'm taking it to a scrap yard. Needs to be stripped (no steel, which I have already done) and cut to no longer than 6', which is what I am about to do.

Thanks for all the suggestions. I will likely use the utility blades that I have, and replace them with new ones when I am done if necessary. Doesn't sound like I need a proper alum. blade.

March 17, 2018, 03:06 PM

snidera

since you're not really worried about quality of cut, I'd grab a sawzall. Set a bunch up side-by-side & go to town - easier to handle than a circular saw.