Best Dremel attachment to cut aluminium profiles?

[Benm]

I'd like to cut some pieces of aluminium L-profiles using a dremel (300 series). Which attachment/blade is most suitable for doing so?

 

[charliebruce]

I've used the standard grinding discs successfully on aluminium, but I suspect there is a better choice than this if you want to get a nice finish and do it properly. What kind of thickness are you trying to cut?

 

[Pontiacg5]

Aluminum is soft and cuts really easy using the standard cut off disks, so long as you're not trying to cut anything excessively thick.

 

[jbtm]

Same. Mine came with a can of 30 standard cutoff wheels. I have had no problems taking my time cutting 1/2" bolts with them. When you deal with thick bolts, you have to go around it..Sheet metal, 1mm thick, easy.

 

[Benm]

I've tried using the included '540' model discs. They do cut through the aluminium, although rather slow. Those discs are very thick though (2 to 3 mm). As i just want to cut one piece of another, i feel like i'm grinding away much more material than required.

Anyone ever tried the 426 model discs? They seem stronger and thinner, see here: http://www.dremel.com/en-us/AttachmentsAndAccessories/Pages/AttachmentsDetail.aspx?pid=426

 

[Pontiacg5]

I don't think you need a fiberglass reinforced wheel for some aluminum. Try the 409 15/16" cutoff wheel. The fiberglass reinforced disks are still pretty thick, these disks are almost paper thick. They are also a little harder than the fiberglass disk, so they wont get clogged with aluminum as easy.

409 15/16" Cutting Wheels, 36 Pack / Model: 409

 

[Benm]

Interesting - i'll order some of those and see what they do.

The stuff i'm trying to cut isnt exacty sheet metal though - its aluminium profile thats about 3 mm thick. I'm not sure of the exact alloy - i'm sure its mostly aluminium, but as these profiles are intended to finish window/door frames and such, they might be quite a bit thougher than pure aluminium.

 

[kiyoukan]

i would use this.
Amazon.com: Dremel EZ406 1 1/2-Inch EZ Lock Rotary Tool Cut-Off Wheel and Mandrel Metal Cutting Starter Kit: Home Improvement

 

[Benm]

Those seem good too, though i dont know the difference - they should last longer i suppose, but would they also cut aluminium more easily?

I just ordered a 36 pcs box of the 409 blades ($3.15 on ebay, so its no problem if they dont suffice).

 

[kiyoukan]

their meant to cut steel just remember to let the blade do the cutting don't force it or you will break or wear the tool down to fast.
So set the tool as fast as possible and go slowly.
Also for more serious cutting, look here i have something like this for my chain-mail.
J. Kelly's Jump Ring Cutter
It might be over kill for aluminum but it cuts 14g steel just fine. but use mineral oil and or wax to keep the blade lubricated.
http://theringlord.com/cart/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=73&cat=Saw+Cutting+Tools

 

[Crazy Jay]

Amazon.com: Dremel EZ406 1 1/2-Inch EZ Lock Rotary Tool Cut-Off Wheel and Mandrel Metal Cutting Starter Kit: Home Improvement

How about this?

 

[kiyoukan]

check a few posts up i posted the same thing.