If you have a DIY project that involves cutting sheet metal but lack experience, you can successfully make clean and precise cuts using an affordable jigsaw. While metal cutting demands a different approach compared to wood, a standard jigsaw, equipped with the appropriate blade, can efficiently handle thin sheet metal for various DIY needs. Let's delve deeper into the process.
What jigsaw do I need for cutting metal?
Selecting the proper jigsaw is the first crucial step in cutting metal effectively.
Power and speed
Look for a jigsaw with a minimum of 600 watts of power. Higher power enables faster and more precise cuts. Additionally, opt for a jigsaw with adjustable speed settings, which provide you with more control over the cutting process.
Blade selection
Tungsten carbide blades, often referred to as bi-metal blades, are essential for cutting metal. These blades are incredibly hard and maintain sharpness for extended periods during metal-cutting tasks.
Teeth per inch (TPI)
For most metal cutting applications, a blade with 14 to 24 teeth per inch is ideal. More teeth per inch deliver a finer cut, while fewer teeth remove material more quickly. Moreover, it's essential to choose blades specifically designed for the type of metal you're cutting – mild steel, aluminium, or other alloys each require different blades.
Additional features
Consider features such as a sturdy metal base plate for stability, dust extraction or a brushless motor to maintain cleanliness and ergonomic handles for prolonged, low-vibration use. With the right blade, power, and speed settings, a heavy-duty jigsaw can cut through mild steel sheets, pipes, and plates up to 6mm thick.
Tips for cutting metal with a jigsaw
To cut metal with a jigsaw, the proper techniques and precautions must be followed:
Marking the cut line
Using a pencil or permanent marker, measure and mark the line you intend to cut on the metal. For cutting curves or complex shapes, consider using a template or stencil. It's imperative to secure the metal in a vice or using clamps to prevent it from slipping during cutting. Additionally, wearing safety glasses is vital to protect your eyes from metal shards and sparks.
Lubricating the blade
To prevent overheating, reduce friction, and prolong the blade's lifespan, apply a lubricating cutting fluid, oil, or a wax stick to both the blade and the marked cut line. Be prepared to reapply lubricant as necessary throughout the cutting process.
Adjusting the speed and feed rate
Select a slow blade speed, typically around 2,000 RPM, and maintain a slow feed rate. Allowing the blade teeth to do the work will minimize jagged edges or tearing. Apply firm and even pressure as you cut, ensuring a consistent and controlled motion.
Maintaining blade contact
It's essential to ensure continuous blade contact with the metal. Lifting the jigsaw at any point can cause the metal to warp or bend, potentially damaging the blade. For tight curves, make relief cuts before cutting out the desired shape, and take extra care when navigating corners or changing direction.
With the proper preparation and adherence to these techniques, you can achieve clean and accurate cuts in sheet metal and metal plates using a standard jigsaw. Taking your time and prioritising safety will lead to the best possible results.
We're Here to Help
Our Help Centre is available 24/7 to explore FAQs, discover DIY ideas and advice, and even ask our community of fellow DIY enthusiasts.
The service from CutMy is great, especially after we had delivery problems - twice - the courier's fault and Gavin did all he could to get things sorted.
CM,
1 hour ago
Verified
Very happy with product
Very happy with product
Alan Pukas,
1 hour ago
Verified
Very quick and correct
Very quick and correct. Delivered with attention. Happy with my glass. Definitely recommend.
Kremena Koleva,
2 hours ago
Verified
First class product and service
After a problem with my small order, customer service was first class and a replacement sent immediately. Very impressed with the quality of the product and the service. Would happily use again.
Kenneth Drake,
4 hours ago
Verified
I was very happy with the service
I was very happy with the service
Ivo Slovak,
5 hours ago
Verified
Would recommend
Efficient, quality, reliable
customer,
8 hours ago
Verified
Very competitive price
Very competitive price , web site easy to navigate, packaged superbly. No problems.
lester mutton,
15 hours ago
Verified
Quick service and accurate fitted…
Quick service and accurate fitted garage shelving perfectly
Christopher Sims ,
18 hours ago
Verified
Arrived well packed easy to install on…
Arrived well packed easy to install on the side of a porch very pleased Thank you
Garry Grant,
19 hours ago
Verified
Easy to order and prompt delivery.
Easy to order and prompt delivery.
Steven MacLeod,
20 hours ago
Verified
Good delivery time and well packaged
Good delivery time and well packaged. Good quality product.
j e smart,
20 hours ago
Verified
Really good come quite quick
Really good come quite quick
Billie Lewis,
20 hours ago
Verified
DIY or Business turn designs into reality no fuss no mess
An innovative solution for DIYers and Business. No hassle, No mess, No waste, No power tools. Turns your Designs into a reality without the fuss.
fire safety officer,
21 hours ago
Verified
They cut my request exactly and in the…
They cut my request exactly and in the time they stated. Pick up was quick and easy with friendly staff. Exactly as it says on the tin!
Chris,
21 hours ago
Verified
Shelves cut to exactly righr…
Shelves cut to exactly righr dimensions, even the odd shaped one.. Good wood. Well packaged and delivered within timescale. Many thanks..
Nige Wardle,
21 hours ago
Verified
My bespoke sized panels fit perfectly!
I received my bespoke sized panels in good condition, which fit the intended space perfectly. I'll be using again!
Adam,
21 hours ago
Verified
The first order turn up and it was…
The first order turn up and it was broken and when I reported this Cut my replaced the broken items straight away without arguing. I wish all companies were like this.
Lindsay Barrett,
21 hours ago
Verified
Excellent service!
The web site is very easy to use, the wood was cut accurately to size, with all the required shaping, and delivery was very fast.
customer,
21 hours ago
Verified
Arrived as described
Arrived as described, safely and accurately cut.
Ian D Denyer,
22 hours ago
Verified
My order for 8 sheets of 9mm Lacquered…
Our order for 8 sheets of 9mm Lacquered Marine Ply was received just as ordered, good quality, and in the timescale predicted. The cut was absolutely perfect. Packaging was well applied which gave very good protection; the most vulnerable edges, in particular, were protected with VERY thick angled cardboard so it would have taken some extremely harsh treatment to damage the goods. The cardboard at the edges was as good and strong as being packed in wood. We had seen a comment when we ordered that implied packaging was poor but, certainly in our case, it was great. Delivery was by APC in our case and the delivery driver was really helpful. By chance it came early in the day so we were able to finish our simple project by the afternoon. When ordering measure twice so that there are no mistakes.
Kathleen Smith,
1 day ago
Subscribe to our email newsletter
Sign up here for our occasional email newsletter with new products, design ideas and discounts across our huge and growing range of products. (You can unsubscribe at any time of course.)