tablesaw & micarta?

M

Michael Bennett

Joined
Mar 2, 1999
Messages
666
What's the best way for ripping micarta? I have a long piece (3/8" x 12" x 36") that I want to rip into a 3/8" x 2" x 36" strip, then thin that strip down to 1/4" or 3/16" thick.

Has anyone tried to work micarta with a table saw? Is it advisable?

Thanks!

Mike
 
It will work just fine, but you will waste some material because of the wider saw kerf. A bandsaw is first choice.
 
I have cut it on a table saw and it works fine. Just use a shop vac to catch the dust. After you have it cut to size you can use a sharp chisle to split it into two 3/16" peices.
Joe
 
Thanks guys!

A bandsaw is definitely on my list of things to get. I borrowed a cheesy Dremel jigsaw that is terrible.

Mike
 
I've cut several hundred pounds of micarta. Everything from 1/8" to 3" and the table saw worked fine.

However, the end of your post said you were reduce the thickness from 3/8" to 1/4" or thinner. Be very careful if you decide to do this. My saw has a 3hp motor and I replaced the original motor pulley with a smaller one to get more torque. The thickest micarta I cut in one pass is 1 1/2". You will have to push really hard to rip a 2"x3/8" piece and there is no room left for your fingers. I would rather spend more time sanding than risk touching a spinning 10" carbide tooth monster.

------------------
Chuck Bybee
titanium.man@gte.net
http://www.titanium-man.com

[This message has been edited by Chuck Bybee (edited 05-11-2001).]
 
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