Dremel Question

I recently acquired a dremel, and I was wondering why the saw bit kept on breaking when I try cutting my lightsaber, which is made from a chrome pipe. Is there any precautions in avoiding this?

I'd like to know, because if I get the saber cut, I could finally finish it.

 

Are you using the right tip for what you're doing? There should be a booklet that came with the dremel that explains what tips to use for what tasks.

 

Yea, I read the booklet, and it said the bit I was using cuts metal, and it said it can cut tough metal too. Also, I successfully cut through, and finished the job, while breaking 2 bits....

 

If you're making straight cuts, try using cutoff wheels. I've used those with a lot of success on chromed sink pipes, which are made of brass, so fairly soft.

Even if you're making a curved shape, you can often remove some of the material with a cutoff wheel and grind or file the curve into the metal. I've done that, too.

 

There are two kinds of cut-off wheels. One is very thin and breaks really easy. The other is thicker and has fiber running through it to hold it together. These are mor expensive but typically don't break, unless you goof and bend it while cutting.

You can by a pack of the nicer wheels for about $13 at HD.

Scott

 

Thanks for the tip, Skaught!! There is actually some cut-off wheels that you were talking about, that is designed for my Black & Decker RTX Rotary Tool(the one I was talking about in the first place). They weren't included in the kit, but, they are included in an extra accessory pack which I was thinking about buying.

Also, I was thinking about making designs on my saber with my dremel, with the engraving tool (included in my kit), and I was wondering about how to go about doing that. Any tips/advice?

 

The number one advice when using a dremel: don't push, let the rotation do the job. Pushing too hard is most often the reason behind slipping or for when a tool breaks.
This is more important when engraving. Concentrate on keeping a firm grip, pressing only lightly with the engraving tool onto the workpiece.
Reposition your wrist and/or your workpiece for the best angle for each shape you engrave. If you have done calligraphy, you know what a difference it makes.

 

maybe you might want to try some better cutting bits - try going to this web site:

Micro Mark

They have a ton of differnt dremel type tools and cutting bits. I think you might find a better alternative to the cut off wheels that break all the time

Hope this helps you out

Dave

 

Looks like a very useful company, lgtsbr. I definitely bookmarked that one!

 

cool - I have used them for a ton of things - and I like that they specialize in small tools and model type tools

Dave

 

Cool link. Definately going to help me out on building quality sabers. Including this one.

 

glad I could help

Dave