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Jeff Chumbley
07-24-2006, 4:49 PM
Trying to cut 1/16th abs for stencils but am having problems. I have a 45w tt and using 20s 90p 2500hz it just doesnt want to give me a smooth clean cut. I dont know if this is melting back together or what.


Jeff

Dave Jones
07-24-2006, 5:23 PM
Do you have air assist?

Jeff Chumbley
07-24-2006, 6:06 PM
Yes I use air assist all the time.

Jeff

Joe Pelonio
07-24-2006, 6:33 PM
Jeff,

45 Watt tt here too.

I used 100 power 15 speed to cut some 1/8" ABS this morning. Never tried 1/16 but by my experience I'd say 20sp 90 pw is too much for it. Try more speed or less power. Unfortunately you have to experiment if no one with the same machine has done that material, but I'd start at 30 sp 80 pw. Freq 2500 is what I used too though the 1/4" cuts better at 5000. Stinky stuff, isn't it?

Also, if you make a second pass while experimenting use more air assist, maybe 40psi, or it will flame and send small sparks into the exhaust.

Jeff Chumbley
07-24-2006, 9:32 PM
I was told at the supplier that it is ABS that they use for stencils. It has a rough texture like Rowmark Textures on one side and smooth on the other. I will try the different power settings to see what happens. Maybe I should vector cut from the smooth side?


Jeff

Joe Pelonio
07-25-2006, 8:16 AM
Jeff,

I always cut it with the textured side up. It has to be some difference in the composition of your ABS vs mine. Actually for stencils the thinner
polycarbonate (lexan) is better anyway, you might try that. Thinner yet stronger, and more flexible.

Jeff Chumbley
07-25-2006, 11:20 AM
Thanks Joe


Jeff