Main > Main Forum
Table saw: This one good enough for wood/MDF control panel work?
javeryh:
--- Quote from: smalltownguy on July 27, 2009, 04:26:42 pm ---I wouldn't bother with a table saw. I've got a smaller one, and I don't use it much. Use your jig saw (if you've already got one) for cutting, and if you need straight lines, clamp a straight 2x4 down for an edge guide. Spend your money on a router & use a flush cutting bit to clean up your edges.
--- End quote ---
I agree with this 100%. I rarely use my table saw for arcade related work. Straight edge and pattern bit is the way to go - definitely.
--- Quote from: GaryMcT on July 27, 2009, 04:29:30 pm ---I tried clamping an MDF board down as a straight edge with the jigsaw that I have and it slipped. It was clamped pretty strongly too. Any tips? I already have a router and a jigsaw.
--- End quote ---
Jigsaws aren't meant for that. You will never get a straight line that way. A circular saw and sawboard will work but since you already have a router just spend the $20 and get a pattern/flush bit and you will be all set. Once you get the hang of making cuts like this you won't even have to draw lines on your workpiece - just mark the two endpoints, clamp the straight edge and cut. You can make lots of perfectly straight cuts in a short period of time. I can't recommend this method enough.
smalltownguy:
Insert some anti slip matting in between your pieces, and they won't move.
Or you can use double sided tape.
GaryMcT:
Thanks guys!
I already have a 1/2" flush trim and a 3/4" pattern bit (bought them after reading this: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=90467.0
I think I have some antislip matting already. . is that the same stuff that that is made for standing on in a shop? If so, I have some of that already.
javeryh:
Check it out - this is from the last control panel I built (I used an original to make an exact copy but you can use a straight edge or whatever to achieve the same results).
Rough cut after layout (just leave 1/8" or so to remove with the router):
Double sided tape to secure the old control panel to the MDF and then cut the exact shape out using my router and a pattern cutting bit (no clamps required!):
Router in action (sort of - I'm not taking this picture with the router bit spinning!):
I'm using a flush bit (ball bearing on the bottom) because my pattern bit (ball bearing on top) broke but the principle is the same. You can see the old control panel sitting underneath the MDF I was cutting. :cheers:
smalltownguy:
Yes, that's the same stuff.
Word to the wise, though: keep your anti slip matting sealed in a plastic bag. Sawdust doesn't really do nice things to it. Imagine the look on my face when I have to stop my project to WASH my matting *grrr* :badmood:
Navigation
[0] Message Index
[#] Next page
[*] Previous page
Go to full version