How to cut acrylic to build a sump?

[terd ferguson]

I've got a bunch of acrylic laying around and am starting to design a new, larger wet/dry sump. My question is what do I use to cut it to size leaving clean straight edges (so they are ready to be glued together)?

I've tried using a skill saw on smaller pieces for different projects and it didn't come out straight and it melted the acrylic. I've also tried a scroll saw, but straightness was an issue. I think I've read some use routers.

Just give me some good details. I only want to do this once, I don't have enough material to screw up. Help me out and I promise an awesome DIY thread with lots of photos from start to finish.

 

[89must]

circular saw or table saw with the proper blade

 

[chesterthehero]

acrylic cutting tool

they are like $5 at home depot.. use a straight edge to score a straight line.. then use a broom handle/piece of pvc under it to break it... then just sand it to get any rough pieces off

if i remember correctly theres pretty good instructions printed on the back of the package... and im also remembering that the tool was nowhere near the sheets of scrylic.. i think it was also in the lighting section near the egg crate

 

[aldiaz33]

acrylic cutting tool

they are like $5 at home depot.. use a straight edge to score a straight line.. then use a broom handle/piece of pvc under it to break it... then just sand it to get any rough pieces off

if i remember correctly theres pretty good instructions printed on the back of the package... and im also remembering that the tool was nowhere near the sheets of scrylic.. i think it was also in the lighting section near the egg crate

Not sure that this will give you the clean cut you are looking for. I just PMed you with some info.

 

[rallysman]

I've used a router or rotozip with a guide clamped to the acrylic.

 

[Dan F]

At my local glass shop the guy uses a table saw with a carbide-tipped, fine-tooth blade.

 

[crazy clowntang]

I would use the table saw to cut the panels and a router for the final stage if the edges are not even flush after welding