How To Cut 16 Gauge Copper Sheet

The method you choose to cut sheet metal depends on the thickness of the metal and the type of cut you plan to make.

How to cut 16 gauge copper sheet.

Start by taping both sides of the sheet metal directly over the line you want to cut and clamp the metal to a work station so it doesn t move. I commonly use 24 and 26 gauge for making jewelry and enameling. As with any sheet metal the edges can be extremely sharp. If you only have one or a few to do a decent variable speed jig saw with a fine metal cutting blade will make reasonably quick work of it.

To cut straight lines use an electric saw. If you have to use a wood bandsaw maximize the tpi and use lots of spray lube to keep the blade cool. Begin cut with metal cutting sheer. And you can use the same technique anytime you need a straight cut on aluminum or other light gauge sheet metal even steel.

24 gauge makes a nice medium weight cuff bracelet for example. Depending on the tool you re using the process will differ a bit. Be careful when cutting or working with it. Perhaps the easiest way to cut copper sheet metal shears or tin snips are ideal for making straight cuts in high and medium gauge sheet metal.

Cutting the copper sheet. 0 5mm copper sheet would be 0 019685 inches thick around 24 gauge and snips would be recommended for cutting. Then bend the sheet back and forth a few times to snap it. 16 mil copper definitely needs to be cut with a pair of snips or something similar.

Clamp or hold a straightedge or square along the cutting marks and score a line with the tip of a sharp utility knife blade. Measure the dimensions needed with tape measure. Elevate and support one edge of sheet with free hand allowing entry point for cut enough clearance for metal cutting sheer to proceed. How to cut 16 gauge sheet metal by metalman21 sun feb 18 2018 6 33 pm clavius wrote.

If you need to cut fine details in thin material here s some recipes and tips to get you started. 2d contouring tips and tricks.