we do electrical panels and we cut some circular holes, squares, rectagular, some basic forms on the front panels.
My only concern would be hot the crossfire would work on tha paited galvanized steel, tickness is 1/16in most of the time until 1/8in max. what distance will get burned in the area out the cut? 1/8in?
Is there anybody near Miami, FL with a cross fire? so we can pay for try out piece?
There will be a little over burn (1/32) around the cut if you have your settings dialed in. That will be covered by just about all mountings. If you are cutting a box, the inside of the box will be coated in smoke, soot, and dross.
Your biggest problem will be clearing off enough surface for the work clamp to make contact with the base metal.
Last summer, I did some cutting of panels that go on computer cases. The individually kept telling me they were aluminum but they were more like you are describing: a coated galvanized metal. They appeared similar to 16 gauge in thickness: Only because of the coating on both sides of the metal.
Since we were testing all of the options they were needing for the best cosmetic outcome, he chose that we did not scrape down to bare metal for the work clamp. I know it was not the desired option for the best cut but it really did surprisingly well…
…but the smoke and stench was absolutely horrible. The paint/coating had a singed look to it. Dross was not too bad. Personally, I thought they should consider taking the panels to someone with a water jet. They wanted to do the cutting in-house. I don’t want to share any more about the situation as it is one of those things that “If they were happy with the results, who am I to criticize.”
Hi Jim,
Than you for the reply and complete details, this is a case similar to us. WJ cost 70$/piece, laser 25$/piece. at the end we still have to apply retouch paint in the cut area and finish both cases and takes about 1-2 weeks leadtime. I think, we can reduce half the cost, lead time and control of the procees (not depending in outsorsing).
Woudl you be interested in doing some test? I can take some 1-3 plates to you about 6x20in. we can share more details and you can set the price for the job. text me up. : 954 682 4183
No. I am sorry. I live on the opposite ends of the “earth” compared to where you live. I am in Washington state.
Besides I have retired from doing that sort of work: Too many variables.
I wish you luck to find someone local.
@Senergy I have a old electrical panel that isn’t ever going to be used. It is old and probably thicker than what you buy now days.
I would be willing to cut a few shapes in it and mail to you. That is if no one local can help
Hi Phillips pw. Thank you, I really appreciate it. Text me up 954 682 4183