Finally got started on the mod to convert my Tethys to dual deployment. I've been kicking around ways to cut the QT bodytube and finally built three U-shaped brackets to hold the bodytube while cutting on my table saw. First I used some paste wax on the inside of the brackets to allow the tube to rotate easily. Then, I got it all squared up and clampled down, held the tube against the fence, raised the blade slowly and rotated the tube a complete turn before raising the blade more. Took about four passes so the cut would be clean. I made good use of the originally installed piston by positioning it where the cut was to be made to keep the tube from distorting while cutting.
Stretch Tethys.....
- Thread starter swimmer
- Start date
Help Support The Rocketry Forum:
Swimmer,
Well done, indeed. Power saws work great for cutting body tubes if you can jig up to properly hold the tube to maintain a good straight and solid hold as you have done with your set-up.
I use my Delta chop saw for cutting 4" and less tubes, including Quantum Tube, phenolic and cardboard/paper. I cut body tubes, motor liner tubes and casting tubes this way. Thankfully my saw goes a full 4" and not 'nominal' 4" (like 2x4 lumber). With your setup, you don't have the size limitation I do, just add a new set of jigs.
One additional useful tip: if you have access to a saw blade with a lot of teeth, like a trim blade rather than a rip blade, the power saw cuts the tube like butter and is extremely smooth.
Thanks for sharing, --Lance.
Well done, indeed. Power saws work great for cutting body tubes if you can jig up to properly hold the tube to maintain a good straight and solid hold as you have done with your set-up.
I use my Delta chop saw for cutting 4" and less tubes, including Quantum Tube, phenolic and cardboard/paper. I cut body tubes, motor liner tubes and casting tubes this way. Thankfully my saw goes a full 4" and not 'nominal' 4" (like 2x4 lumber). With your setup, you don't have the size limitation I do, just add a new set of jigs.
One additional useful tip: if you have access to a saw blade with a lot of teeth, like a trim blade rather than a rip blade, the power saw cuts the tube like butter and is extremely smooth.
Thanks for sharing, --Lance.
Stymye
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Jan 21, 2009
- Messages
- 7,599
- Reaction score
- 18
swimmer,the tethys looks like a sweet rocket!
same here Lance
I use my miter saw to cut all my tubing..even as small as bt-5 ..I installed a 72t carbide blade ,,it does very a nice job of slotting the larger tubes as well.! and will just clear a 4" dia tube.
same here Lance
I use my miter saw to cut all my tubing..even as small as bt-5 ..I installed a 72t carbide blade ,,it does very a nice job of slotting the larger tubes as well.! and will just clear a 4" dia tube.
The QT responded very well to even the rip blade (actually I forgot to put my trim blade on) and the cut is still very smooth. Thanks for the reminder Lance and stymye.
I have used my table saw several times to cut phenolic motor tubes and is the perfect tool for fin cutting.
I have used my table saw several times to cut phenolic motor tubes and is the perfect tool for fin cutting.
