how to cut a hole in acrylic

[B33FST3W]

I want to install a bulkhead in my eclipse 12 and in order to do so I need to drill a hole in it, and I just wanted to know what is the best way to make that hole?

Thanks,

Stew

 

[HippieSmell]

I used a hole saw for wood. Just don't push too hard and be aware that the acrylic can melt, then solidify and get the hole saw stuck. And I mean STUCK. So if you feel the bit bogging down, pull it out fast and let it sit for a minute. The eclipse 12 is pretty thin acrylic though, so it shouldn't be a problem. It's really easy, don't worry.

 

[eclecticvibe]

Use a hole saw on the end of a drill. Go slowly until the teeth are in the acrylic. Once you get into the acrylic, keep pushing and don't stop.

 

[HippieSmell]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7950601#post7950601 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eclecticvibe
Use a hole saw on the end of a drill. Go slowly until the teeth are in the acrylic. Once you get into the acrylic, keep pushing and don't stop.

Unless you have a cheap drill like me that doesn't have a ton of power. You can get the bit stuck if you keep pushing, trust me. Maybe I was drilling too fast.

 

[B33FST3W]

so a hole saw for wood is what I need?

thanks for the fast replys

 

[tedu]

Yep, hole saw designed for wood works fine for acrylic. As previous posts have indicated, go slow and make sure it doesn't 'grab' which could crack acrylic if it's thin.

 

[Volcano1]

I found a thread some where on RC that suggested using the hole saw, going slowly and using a spay botle to help cool the bit. I used this method to drill through 1/4" sump and it worked great. Be careful with the inital gripping of the hole saw after the pilot bit goes through. Keep spaying the bit with water. Go slow and don't over heat the bit. You will have a pile of frine mush when you are done for clean up. Drilled about 3 11/2" holes and it worked fine.

 

[manderx]

if you have one, a router is by far the best way. drill a hole with a hole-saw in a piece of wood, then use that as a template with a router. unbelievably easy and makes perfect holes every time with no melting or risk of cracking.

 

[rickyb]

I seen holes made by a hole saw for wood, keeping the bit cool by driping water to it, stoping anytime the bit got hot.
Take your time and you will be fine, ask someone to help you to keep the bit cool while you drill the hole.