Polycarbonate Cutting

[millsy]

Need to make a new PF plastic out of 3mm polycarbonate.
Any suggestions on the best tool to cut & shape it (besides a laser cutter)

[pinnies4me]

A jigsaw works. Ive done a few this way. Once e rough cut, varying grit from course to fine, then novus 2 to finish.

[swinks]

actually laser is not recommended as it releases toxic cancerous gases, if doing at home - use a jigsaw, dremmel, cleanup with a file / sandpaper and if you are going to flame the edge make sure to do it outside with a fume mask on as well - fumes can be nasty stuff. But also be aware flaming and cutting with a laser can slightly yellow the edge and you will still have to sand and polish.

[millsy]

Have a dremmel - Might try it with a tile cutter attachment.
Will report back how it went.

[Marty Machine]

......and use a HOBBY jigsaw from a model/craft shop, much finer cut and less prone to snapping your plastic.  :-)

MM

[pinball god]

I use a scroll saw from bunnings. Forget the cost but not over the top.

[Retropin]

Yep.. polycarb does crack like acrylic.. you can hit it with a jigsaw/ band saw no problems

[Mr Pinbologist]

I use a scroll saw from bunnings. Forget the cost but not over the top.

Same.. i use a scroll saw as well. Pretty sure it was a Bunnings one, GMC brand, wasn't real expensive but it works well.

[Retropin]

Yep.. polycarb does crack like acrylic.. you can hit it with a jigsaw/ band saw no problems

That's meant to read ' Doesn't"

[GAP]

+2 on the scroll saw - then wet & dry followed by Novus 2 if you really want the edges smooooth.