Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

water jet or
laser cutter or
CNC router table or
mill

if you want to do it right.

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

The bezels cover a pretty good size area over the hole, so if they are slightly burred or rough, it shouldn't matter much. I would use a carbide hole saw with your stainless stock supported on a piece of wood.
The hole doesn't have to be perfect, it won't be seen.

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

what ever you do,, don't work harden the metal,, if you do, you will be S.O.L unless you have a carbide cutter.. keep the revs low and keep the tool cutting..

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

Very true, I think what Chris means in laymans terms is, apply enough force to cut, dont let the teeth drag and slide on the surface. Right Chris?

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

yah,, Stainless is very easily work hardened,, once that happens it's near impossible to drill or cut without carbide or diamond,, and even then you will most likely ruin the tool cutting it..

Personally I hate machining SS.. I would rather make the panels out of aluminum and have them engraved and hard anodized a cool color to match the boat..

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

Mild Thunder,
STOP!!!

Kitchen appliences use 316 stainless. It's gummy when you cut it and you'll probably f' it up using garage methods. Laser, waterjet, EDM work well, depending on the thikness of stock. You can use carbide cutters but you'll need to hold the part well with a backer. You'll also need to chuck your cutter well so you don't get chatter.

Good luck!

Fionn

Puder pic up your phone mo' fo'!!!

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

holy lord he lives!!!!!! leave a VM if ya call!!!!!!!!!

i'll give ya a buzz later on tonight.

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

GO ALUMINUM and have it anodized.. :cool:

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

I'm with Cris on the aluminum thing. Best thing is 1/8 alum plate, cnc router cut it, powder coat then lazer etch lettering. Sweeeet!

Re: Tool to cut Stainless Dash panels
 

Puder yo're funny man!!! Yep, been down.... I feel like a one-legged man in an azz kicking contest. Call or I'll call you bro'. Thank the lord it's sunny and warm here and I think summer is in.