Cutting acrylic in a sump

[Lightsluvr]

I need to lower the baffles in a 90G sump - the operating water level is just too high. What tool is best to cut out a few inches from the top side of a pair of baffles?

Thanks.

LL

 

[Blown76mav]

A dremel works the best. Use the cut-off wheel attachment.

 

[THE ROOK]

Another option could be to drill some holes at the level desired.

 

[ludnix]

Do be sure to wear eye protection if you use the cut-off wheel with the acrylic. They come in large packs becuase they break very easily.

 

[400M1963]

Large tooth sabre saw, slower speed.

 

[Lightsluvr]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15263590#post15263590 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 400M1963
Large tooth sabre saw, slower speed.

Like a Sawsall?

LL

 

[400M1963]

Avoid a band saw since it will melt the plastic, get a sabre saw with blade made for plastic, or even a coping saw. I haven't tried the sawall per se. It shouldn't be highest or lowest speed. Don't get too large a tooth blade either, as it can shatter the acrylic. It can be done and finish with sandpaper, but I just have pieces cut to order at Lowes these days ...

 

[mcoomer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15263046#post15263046 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by THE ROOK
Another option could be to drill some holes at the level desired.

That's what I'd do. Get a drill and pretty good sized hole saw and cut a row of holes at the level that you want. Shut off your pump, bail out the sump, and cut your holes. Probably done in 30 minutes.

 

[Lightsluvr]

The light just came on...

The light just came on...

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15264574#post15264574 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcoomer
That's what I'd do. Get a drill and pretty good sized hole saw and cut a row of holes at the level that you want. Shut off your pump, bail out the sump, and cut your holes. Probably done in 30 minutes.

Cheesh - I'm such a dope...

I'm sitting here staring at my 1" hole saws... I could just mark a straight line in the baffle and drill holes where I want the water level to be...thanks for the reminder, folks. I'd would much rather be drilling a series of holes rather than take a chance in shattering the baffle!

Fortunately the sump is completely dry already - I am in the middle of a new build... (click on the red house to go to our build thread)

Thanks to all for the suggestions!

LL