What is the Best Blade to Cut Aluminum Railing? This is a question that many people ask themselves when they are trying to do some DIY home projects. There are tons of different blades on the market, so it can be hard to know which one will work best for your project.
Luckily, we have done all the research for you! In this article, we will go over 5 of our favorite blades and why they make great choices. Best of all you don’t need any experience with tools or metals because we’ve got everything covered!
Can a wood blade cut aluminum?
Not really. If you try to use a wood blade on aluminum, it will not cut very well and the blade could dull quickly as well.
It is best to either buy an aluminum-specific blade or at least make sure that whatever new type of metal you are purchasing blades for is listed on the box/blade packaging itself. We have included both types of blades in this article.
You can make sure that you are buying the right blade for your metal by checking out our guide on How to Pick the Best Blade for Cutting Metal.
Best Blade To Cut Aluminum Railing
What kind of blade do you use to cut aluminum?
A diamond blade is one of the best blades to use when you are cutting aluminum. They are made with extremely strong diamonds that help them cut through metals like butter!
These types of metal saws can be very expensive, so if you do not have a large project at hand it might be better for you to buy some cheaper blades that will still do a great job.
If you have never used metal blades before, then this is going to be your best option because it will not break the bank and allow you to learn how they work on a smaller project without risking too much money.
Wood blades are also a great option, especially for smaller projects that will require more detailed work to be done. These types of blades usually come with an extremely thin kerf (the width of the cut), so they can get into small spaces and cut with accuracy.
Diablo D1080N Metal Cutting Blade
The average person is spending hours and hours each week trying to cut through metal or plastic. Because Metal cutting is a tough job, and you need to be prepared for it.
Diablo Blades are designed for metal cutting, but they can also cut through the plastic with ease. The Diablo D1080N Non-Ferrous Metal & Plastic Cutting Saw Blade is built to last with micro-grain titanium carbide teeth that stay sharp longer than standard blades.
It’s ideal for cutting sheet metals up to 1/8″ thick including stainless steel, copper, brass, and aluminum as well as plastics like PVC pipe or acrylic sheets. This blade has laser-cut stabilizer vents that trap noise and vibration keeping it cool and reducing blade warp so your cuts stay straight every time even when the temperature rises during the workday.
If you’re looking for a blade that will stand up to any kind of metal or plastic challenge in your workshop then this Diablo D1080N Non-Ferrous Metal & Plastic Cutting Saw Blade is just what you need! Its durable design makes it.
- The blade material is durable micro grain titanium carbide.
- Blade weight is only 1.45 lbs.
- You may cut all kinds of metal.
- Its price is quite high from another blade.
- It may generate noise from other blades.
MASTEC 10-Inch Aluminum Saw Blade
Cutting thin materials can be a hassle with normal saw blades. The MASTEC 10-Inch 100T Aluminum Saw Blade is designed to cut through thin material like butter.
This blade is perfect for cutting aluminum, plexiglass, plastic, and non-ferrous metals. It has triple chip teeth which means it will provide you with smooth cuts and clean edges every time.
These blades are designed with precision in mind so they cut cleanly without leaving burrs behind. They’re also strong enough to endure the pressure needed for heavy-duty cutting jobs like those found in construction sites or industrial facilities. You’ll have no problem using this blade as it comes with a 5/8″ arbor size so installation is simple and fast! Simply remove the old blade from your machine.
- Suitable for Cutting Aluminum, Plexiglass, Plastic, Non-ferrous Metals.
- This is a universal blade.
- Blade weight is only 1.8 lbs.
- You may get a 100% replacement guarantee.
- This is a professional carpenter blade.
- It may generate sawdust from other blades.
Evolution Aluminum Cutting Saw Blade
Cutting metal is hard, but it’s even harder when you don’t have the right tools. The Evolution Aluminum Cutting blades cut through metal up to 1/4″ thick using a carbide tooth design that prevents clogging and keeps cutting action smooth.
This high-quality aluminum cutting circular saw blade is designed for use with Evolution or other low RPM saws. It’s great for woodworking, remodeling projects, fabrication work, automotive repair jobs, and more!
If you’re looking for an affordable way to cut through metal without damaging your saw or risking injury from flying shards of metal, this aluminum cutting circular saw blade will help you get the job done right every time! Each blade comes with its own protective sheath that can be used during storage as well as during transport.
- This is a 90 Tooth Carbide Tipped Blade.
- Its maximum supported speed is 1600 RPM.
- The blade has .094-Inch Kerf.
- You may get 1-Inch Arbor Size.
- The blade is only suitable for circular saws.
- It may generate more noise from other blades.
DEWALT Aluminum Cutting Saw Blade
Cutting metal with a circular saw can be time-consuming and frustrating. So, I want a blade that will cut through thick metal without breaking.
The DEWALT 6-1/2-Inch Aluminum Cutting Saw Blade is designed to cut through 1/8″ thick aluminum, but also cuts other materials like steel up to 1/4″.
This blade comes in handy for contractors who need to cut sheet goods on the Jobsite. It’s laser-etched so you know exactly what material it’s made of, which makes it easy to replace when necessary.
This ferrous metal cutting blade is precision balanced for accurate cuts every time. Its extra hard carbide tips ensure that cutting edges stay sharp longer while its laser-cut expansion slots minimize noise and edge vibration for an excellent surface finish with fewer burrs. Plus, this blade features an ultra-thin kerf design that reduces friction and gum up while providing fast cutting action.
- This is an ultra-thin kerf blade
- It has an Anti-stick rim which reduces friction.
- Blade weight is only 6.6 ounces.
- You may get 5/8-Inch Arbor Size.
- You may cut 6.5 inches.
- You may get only a one-year full warranty.
TWIN-TOWN Metal Cutting Saw Blade
We all know that cutting materials with a table saw or miter saw can be dangerous, but it’s the only way to get the job done.
Now there is an alternative. The Twin-Town 10 inch 80 fine-toothed blade cuts through plastic, aluminum, and nonferrous metals like butter without any of the dangers associated with using a table saw or miter saw.
This innovative blade makes cutting fast and easy while keeping you safe from injury at all times. It is also designed to cut through plastics, aluminum, and nonferrous metals up to 2x faster than other blades on the market today.
And if that wasn’t enough, this new design features laser-cut stabilizer vents that trap noise and vibration keeping your blade cool so you don’t have to worry about warping over time either!
- Its Laser cut stabilizer vents trap noise and vibration.
- Its C4 grade tungsten carbide teeth provide 2X longer life.
- It may not overheat specially cut metal.
- You may get 5/8 Inch Arbor Size.
- It may generate noise when you cut metal.
- You may get a limited warranty.
How To Choose the Best Blade To Cut Aluminum Railing
Before you buy the blade, you should know its thickness, tooth blade, and number. Thickness can be measured in inches or millimeters.
Blade Materials
Aluminum cutting blades are available in tungsten steel, molybdenum steel, cobalt steel, and tungsten carbide tipped blades.
Tungsten steel blades are most commonly used. They have a high tooth hardness, wear resistance, and shock resistance. So they can cut metal fast and keep the cutting sharp edges for a long time. However, these blades tend to be expensive.
Blade Length
Decide what size blade you would like to use. The most common sizes are 12 inches or 18 inches. However, there is also a smaller 6-inch blade which might be useful in tight spaces.
Blade Thickness
Different blades are available with different thicknesses, for example, 0.020 inches to 0.120 inches. Choose one depends on what you work with. The blade thickness is related to the metal hardness and alloying element content of the material that will be cut out. Thicker blades can increase the saw’s cutting efficiency, especially for tough materials that tend to vibrate and deflect during the cut.
Blade Tooth Shape
Aluminum blades can be categorized into several styles based on their tooth blade shape. The most common types are: full-tooth, a blade with a smooth top contour which is used for general purpose cutting; semi-tooth, blades are used for faster metal cutting, usually at the expense of smoothness; alternate top-cut, similar to full-tooth but with a serrated edge that helps reduce vibrations and provides extra grip onto the material.
Conclusion
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: cutting metal is hard, but it’s even harder when you don’t have the right tools. I hope this best blade to cut aluminum railing list gave you an idea of what to look for if you want a specific type of saw blade for cutting metal.
How do you cut aluminum railings?
I use a metal cutting band saw. If I’m doing a large job, where time is money, I will rent one of those big old portable bandsaws with the motor on top. But usually, it’s just the little benchtop hobby saw as you mentioned.
You can get by without one, but if you want to cut aluminum railing, you’ll need to get a metal cutting blade.
If you have ever cut aluminum or wrought iron railings with an abrasive chop saw, you know how rough the edge is. As far as grinder work is concerned I find it easier to grind on steel than aluminum so I am always looking for ways to cut down my finishing time.
What do you cut aluminum railing with?
If you don’t have a bandsaw and can’t rent one, you will need to find some other way to cut the aluminum railing.
Usually, I use a reciprocating saw. If it’s not too bad I use a hacksaw with metal cutting blades or even an abrasive chop saw (straight blade).
Can you cut aluminum with an abrasive blade?
Yes, you can cut aluminum with an abrasive blade, but it’s not the best option. Abrasive blades can produce a lot of heat and may create burrs or a rough finish.
If you choose this method, make sure to use a blade specifically designed for cutting aluminum and take precautions to manage heat buildup. However, carbide-tipped blades are generally recommended for cleaner and more efficient cuts.
What can you cut aluminum railings with?
Though most saws will technically cut aluminum, most won’t do so efficiently or cleanly.
So if you need a specific type of blade to get a really smooth edge on your aluminum material then here’s a more complete list: Grinders, bandsaws, table saws, reciprocating saws, jigsaws.
How do you cut aluminum with a grinder?
Tight tolerance grinding applications are best served by cutting the material with an abrasive blade or metal cutoff saw. Here is how it’s done.
First, mark your cut line on your railings. Then, you will want to put on a good dust mask, safety glasses, and safety gear for your eye protection. Lightly score the aluminum with a jewelers file before cutting.
Put on your cutoff wheel and make the cut by applying firm pressure while rotating the grinder in a counterclockwise motion. Repeat until the railing is cut all the way through then turn it around and do the same thing on the other side.
With any luck, you will get a clean cut with no tearing or bowing of the metal. If you don’t then here are some tips to help prevent that from happening in your next aluminum rail cutting project.
Can you cut aluminum with jigsaw?
Yes, you can cut aluminum with a jigsaw! To do this effectively, use a jigsaw blade designed for metal cutting, typically with fine teeth (around 10-14 TPI) to minimize burrs. It’s also helpful to clamp the aluminum securely and work at a slower speed to ensure a clean cut. Just be cautious of heat buildup, as it can affect the quality of the cut.