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kiter Eric · Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 8:04 pm Post subject: cutting fiberglass

is it alright to cut fiberglass tubing with a hacksaw?

Progcraft · Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 8:19 pm Post subject:

Yup. Use a fine tooth blade though. And wrap tape around the point where you want to cut through. And, rotate the spar as you cut it. Don't try to cut all the way through in a single direction else you cause splintering.
Practice a couple times on some scrap pieces to get the hang of it. You'll be fine Smile

Cheers,
P.
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mhartzel · Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 8:39 pm Post subject:

I recently cut some solid fibreglass spars the way progcraft suggests. Worked like a dream. Also... use light pressure and let the saw do the work. You'll end up with a cleaner and strighter cut if you do it that way.
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Stan · Joined: 18 Nov 2003 Posts: 592 Location: San Diego

I clamp a hacksaw blade in a vise and hold the spar in my hands, turning it as I stroke it on the blade. It is easier than trying to hold both the spar and the saw.

kiteguy · Posted: Tue Aug 17, 2004 1:13 am Post subject:

I cut a LOT of fiberglass, and Carbon, spars with hacksaw on taped spar before I got my cut off saw from Harbor Freight.

The little saw works fine, but I am not sure it is worth the $$$ now that I have experienced both. Rolling Eyes

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KiteSquid · Posted: Tue Aug 17, 2004 6:50 am Post subject:

I have seen Ron Gratazano cut a Carbon spar with a Diamond File. I like the idea for use on the kite field. The cheepst one from China should do nicley.

If you cut a lot of spars, you may want to invest in one of Steve's spar saws.

They are wonderfull!!!!!

I first used one at a MKS kite retreat and WOW it was fast. I have mine hooked up to a vacuum to collect the dust.
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P.S. Yet another post by the Squid..... Shocked

Doesent he ever shut up???

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knotronda · Posted: Sun Nov 07, 2004 1:42 am Post subject:

Why didn't you link to the spar saw location to make it easier for people to look at it??

Steve??

KR

stevef · Posted: Sun Nov 07, 2004 7:46 pm Post subject:

You mean THIS one?
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300M · Joined: 03 Sep 2004 Posts: 157 Location: Newport News, VA

I have been using my scroll saw to cut tubing, however cutting this fibergalss eats a balde after just 2 cuts Sad

. Been cutting that 1/8 orange rod I got from Steve. Carbon I can cut ~ 8 rods without a hitch. I have a vacuum setup and air filtration already installed Smile

. FYI I do know that tape acts as a lube for the blade, old woodworkers trick.
After cutting those rods Sat/Sun and burning up 4 blades in 10 min I need another altertinative.
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John M

Mountain Man · Posted: Mon Nov 08, 2004 7:29 am Post subject:

90% of my spars cut at home is on the band saw wrap with tape and no problem in the field .... I have a small metal saw that works very well keep turning the spar .... that is the most important feature ..... I have yet to damage a spar while cutting ! ..... Wink

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