How do you cut polystyrene?

polystyrene can be cut several ways but the easiest and neatest way to cut polystyrene is by using a hot wire cutter. polystyrene can be cut with a sharp knife but it often leaves a rough edge, likewise you can saw through it using a hack saw blade but again the finish is far from perfect.

How do you cut polystyrene at home?

Use an electric kitchen knife, such as a carving knife or a fish fillet knife, to create clean cuts in Styrofoam. Place the electric knife on the foam along the desired cutting line. Do not exert pressure on the electric knife, but allow the serrated blades to gently cut through the Styrofoam.

How do you cut thick polystyrene?

Can you cut polystyrene with a hot knife?

Utilize a hot wire cutter for smooth cuts. Hot wire cutters melt through the foam with a heated wire, creating a smooth edge. They are especially effective for creating rounded edges or shapes out of styrofoam. Moving too fast through the foam will cause the wire to snap.

What is the size of wire to use in a foam cutter?

16 gauge to 11 gauge is used for foam cutters to cut shapes such as molding because they are stiff enough to hold a shape rather than being straight. A 12″ piece of 14 gauge nichrome wire requires only 1.9 volts but almost 12 amps. Larger diameter wires are also used for very long cutters such as 8 or 10 feet.

What can you do with a hot wire foam cutter?

With the foam cutters on our list, you’ll have a capable tool no matter where your creativity takes you. A hot wire foam cutter could be the tool you don’t know you need in your life. These precise tools allow you to cut, carve, mold, and shape foam for a variety of projects, from creative to protective.

When did they start making hot wire cutters?

Since 1991 we have been manufacturing hot wire cutters and foam cutting machines. We supply hot wire foam sculpting tools, a Crafter’s Hot Knife, two Pro Hot Knives, and a new Industrial Hot Knife.

What’s the best way to cut hot wire?

Our Freehand Router has a shapeable foam cutting hot wire. The foam Engraving tool is perfect for detailing your foam sculpture. You can quickly cut down your big blocks of foam with our 2-4 foot adjustable hot wire Bow Cutter.

Why was the wire stretched on the foam cutter?

The wire was stretched to keep the tension on the wire so that it won’t get deformed while cutting. If playback doesn’t begin shortly, try restarting your device.