Cutting acrylic?

[Conner]

So I'm picking up a 220g (72"x30"x24") acrylic tank next weekend. It's in pretty good shape, and other than some light buffing, the only thing that I want to do to it is cut the access openings in the top larger.

Right now they are about 9" wide by 24 to 30" long (didn't get to measure length). I would like to basically widen the holes so there is 4-6" of acrylic around all four edges, and a 4" strip in the middle from front to back.

What would be the best way to cut the acrylic out? A router? Jigsaw? Chainsaw? ROFL.

Just curious what you guys think, and if you have any suggestions on the best way to do this.

 

[joey02]

Cut it using a jig saw and water... then smooth it out with a router... then flame poish the edges...

 

[bob965]

I would rough out the shape with a jigsaw, make a template out of hardboard, stick it to the acrylic, and cut the final shape with a router with a flush cutting pattern bit.

 

[dawnmarie]

I would rough out the shape with a jigsaw, make a template out of hardboard, stick it to the acrylic, and cut the final shape with a router with a flush cutting pattern bit.

 

[Pharaoh]

I would just bring it to Indy and give it to me. I'll work with the tank.

 

[Conner]

I would just bring it to Indy and give it to me. I'll work with the tank.

I'll trade it to you for the 500g glass .