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i need to cut lead sheet roughly 1.5m x 6.5m x 3.3-3.8mm, down to 1m x 3m or 1m x 6m. The cuts must be squarish and leave a good, clean edge. Any suggestions would be helpful. Also I am unable to move the lead sheet until it has been cut as the sheet is large and i do not want to damage the finish.
Hammer and chisel - limb loppers - big metal snips - power nibbler - butcher knife and hammer - list goes on..... 10ga
Straightedge and utility/razor knife.
Maybe a skill saw and a wood backer.
I use aviation snips . They are the small snips you use to cut circles etc.
I would try a piece of 1/4" X1 1/2" steel flat stock for a guide and a knife. Put a couple layers of tape on the bottom of the flat bar to protect the finish. clamp in position with a couple c clamps. Sharpen a knife and stone the top of the point and blade flat with sharp edges. Draw the knife along the steel edge using it in reverse, think scoring plexi glass. A little kerosene or light oil will lubricate the cut making it easier. Make simole passes until the piece can be bent to break it or falls off either or.
I use an axe.
Reciprocating saw with a rescue blade will make quick work of it and allow the 'square-ish' cuts you need.
Thats my guessQuote:
Originally Posted by jsizemore
I also think a knife and straightedge would work, But I think I'd also try a circular saw with the blade turned backwards. I used to cut large aluminum sheets like that and it worked great. Just use a straight edge or a chalk line.
hickey, welcome to the forum.Quote:
Originally Posted by jsizemore
If you need a 'perfect cut', I'd look for a local manufacturer, which makes things from sheet metal. Then have them use a hydraulic Shear. But, if you have a steady hand, jsizemore's suggestion should work too.
I use a long bladed hedge trimmer and lean on it (but not too hard, of course) to cut isotope lead sheeting. Cots nicely and cleanly even if there is still some paint and texturing still on it.
Good evening,
That's a really big piece of sheet lead. I have used a rough cut wood blade in my reciprocating saw to cut sheet lead. Worked for cuts about a foot long. Smaller I use aviation snips. Small pieces Exacto knife. Bigger? I have seen a chain saw cut lead.
if you want a clean cut use a skill saw if you want fast cuts use a chain saw.
sawzall and some wd40 to spray for lubricant.
Circular saw against a straight edge will be fast & true.