If you’re installing FRP panels, there may be a need to cut them. What are some tools that can be used for this purpose?
Fiberglass-reinforced plywood or FRP panels can be cut using a circular saw with a carbide-tipped blade. It will cut through the FRP quickly and cleanly, although you need to be cautious about the dust that is created.
FRP panels provide the benefit of superior strength while at the same time, offering a lightweight option. They have been used in the construction industry since they were first introduced in 1965.
What Can You Use To Cut FRP Panels?
You may find that using FRP panels provides exactly what is necessary for your home or place of business. Regardless of whether you are working with a large business or if you are a homeowner, however, you want to ensure that you are taking care of your health while cutting this material.
One of the things you would want to avoid is breathing in any of the dust that was created while you are cutting FRP. This can be a problem, especially if you use a circular saw or another saw that cuts the FRP dry.
Quite honestly, you have limited options when it comes to cutting FRP, but it is still something to keep in mind so that you cut it safely. Always wear a disposable respirator, such as an N95 mask. That will filter out 95% of the particles over 0.3 microns in size.
If you want to improve your safety, you can always wear a half mask or full-face respirator. They are less comfortable, but they do provide superior protection for cutting dangerous materials.
Admittedly, most people don’t consider FRP to be dangerous but studies have shown that the dust can be as dangerous as asbestos.
You should also wear safety glasses at a minimum but you would be better off wearing goggles to fully protect your eyes from the dust. Long-sleeve shirts and long pants are also important.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of your ears. If you are cutting FRP with a loud saw, make sure you wear some hearing protection.
Let’s consider some of the different options for cutting FRP. Some are going to be good for use and others are better avoided.
Can You Use a Utility Knife To Cut FRP?
When you look at FRP, you might think that a utility knife is the best choice because it is thin. In reality, however, a utility knife will not easily cut the whole way through FRP and will dull very quickly.
If you are in a pinch and only have a utility knife available, you can always score the FRP to make it weak at that point. Don’t try to cut the whole way through the fiberglass because it will dull the knife quickly.
After you score a line in the FRP, you can fold it back and forth and it will eventually snap at the spot where the cut was made.
Can You Use Circular Saw To Cut FRP?
A circular saw is one of the best options for cutting FRP. It makes long, straight cuts quickly and easily as long as you use a carbide-tipped blade. Any other type of blade will quickly wear out when cutting FRP.
One of the biggest issues with using a circular saw is the dust. The dust created when cutting FRP is similar to asbestos in its dangers. Always wear a respirator.
You should also not try to cut FRP in any shape other than straight. A handheld circular saw will do wonders when cutting this material.
Can You Use Jigsaw To Cut FRP?
Many people switch to a jigsaw when cutting FRP anytime it has to be an odd shape. Use a carbide-tipped blade and allow the blade to do the majority of the work.
If you only have a jigsaw available, you can also use the tool for cutting straight lines in FRP. If you are going to cut straight lines with a jigsaw, use a straight edge to guide the blade.
Be prepared to change blades frequently if you are using a jigsaw for cutting FRP. It may cut easily, but it is going to dull easily as well.
Can You Use Tin Snips To Cut FRP?
FRP panels can be cut with tin snips, but it is not always the best choice. You have to apply a significant amount of pressure to cut through the fiberglass. If you want to step things up, you can use electric shears to cut the material.
If you are going to use tin snips, make sure that you are using a high-quality snip with a good blade. If you have been using the tool for many years, it may not cut through the material to your satisfaction.
Can You Use Dremel To Cut FRP?
If you have to do a small amount of cutting on a fiberglass-reinforced panel, you can use a Dremel tool. Either a hobby tool or one that is made for construction can be used. Be aware of the dust that is created when using a Dremel tool, as you will likely be working in close contact with the material.
The real key to cutting FRP successfully with a Dremel tool is to tape the surface. Doing so will give you some guidance as to where you will cut the material and it will also prevent chipping.
Can You Use Table Saw To Cut FRP?
You can use a table saw for cutting FRP but it is not the best choice compared to some of the other options. A table saw with a carbide-tipped blade will cut through FRP but it will create a tremendous amount of dust when doing so.
Sometimes, you just want to get the job done and that is exactly what a table saw is designed to do. That being said, you don’t want to compromise your health because of the dust that is created.
In addition, you can expect the carbide-tipped blades to wear out fairly easily if you are cutting one panel after another.
Can You Use Grinder To Cut FRP?
An angle grinder is one of the best tools you can use for cutting FRP. As long as you use a metal cutting disc, you can cut through the FRP and guide the angle grinder exactly where it needs to go.
When you use an angle grinder, it can create significant fiberglass dust particles. Since the particles from FRP are considered to be as dangerous as asbestos, you should pay particular attention.
Can You Use Oscillating Tool To Cut FRP?
Don’t be afraid to use your oscillating tool for cutting FRP. It does an excellent job, but you have to use the proper attachments. The oscillating tool is a much better option compared to scoring it with a blade and snapping it.
Can You Use Electric Shears To Cut FRP?
You can use electric shears to cut through a piece of FRP quickly and easily. They make a great choice if you have a longer, straight cut. Certain types of shears will also do well for curved cuts.
Can You Use Shears To Cut FRP?
Handheld shears can cut through FRP but they are not the best option. Generally speaking, they will dull very quickly and you have to do a lot of extra work in order to get the material cut.
Can You Use Hand Saw To Cut FRP?
If you have a hand saw available, don’t try using it for cutting FRP. Even a circular saw is going to take some work and will dull very quickly. A handsaw, which doesn’t generally have carbide-tipped blades will not work well for you.
How To Cut FRP (Best Way)
Although any saw can basically be used for cutting FRP, there are some that are better selections. This includes a circular saw or jigsaw.
Here are the steps necessary to cut FRP the best way possible.
1. Tool Selection – If you are making a long, straight cut then you would be better off using a circular saw. If you are making any type of odd cut or circular shape, you should use a jigsaw.
Along with choosing the saw that you use, it is also important to choose the blade. This is true of any saw that may be used for this purpose.
Copyright protected content owner: ReadyToDIY.com and was initially posted on September 21, 2022.
As a general recommendation, you would use a carbide-tipped blade. A 24-tooth blade is also the best choice for a circular saw. Be prepared to change the blade frequently.
2. Stabilize – It is very important to keep your work stable when you are cutting FRP. Use a workbench or sawhorses for that purpose. You should also be aware of what is under the bench while cutting.
3. Mark the Line – Once you have things set up properly, it’s time to mark the FRP. This can be done with a carpenter’s pencil, which is probably the best choice.
4. Straight Edge – If you are doing rough work with FRP, you can probably cut it freehand. Otherwise, it is generally recommended that you use a straight edge to guide the saw while you are cutting.
5. Edge Cleanup – After you make your cut, there may be some burrs or other imperfections on the edge. These can be cleaned up with some sandpaper or a file.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on September 21, 2022.
If you need to cut FRP, the best choice is to use a circular saw for straight cuts or a jigsaw for curved cuts. Always used a carbide-tipped blade on any saw when cutting FRP.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on September 21, 2022.
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