Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Steve <steve65@...> wrote:
>
> There have been discussions from time to time on this reflector about 
> techniques for cutting PCB material. I don't recall having seen mention 
> of a band saw.
> 
> Anyone use a band saw to cut FR4 as thick as 1/16 inch? Does it work 
> well? Or poorly? What kind of blade does it take? Other comments or advice?
> 
> I have occasionally considered buying a band saw for other applications 
> and was just wondering if its use in cutting FR4 might lend some weight 
> to that decision? Thinking about a table model.
> 
> Thanks.
> 
> Steve
> 
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You really need a diamond blade as FR4 is glass.
A glass cutting band saw like the Taurus 3 should work for irregular shapes too.  Try Glasscrafters or Delphi.  They are about $375 but cut glass like butter; should do the job on FR4 too.  They run wet so dust shouldn't be much of a problem.