I need my tubes cut

[brunelrussell]

Brunelrussell here, still slaving away on the Great Eastern.  I have three aluminum tubes for the aft funnels that need to be cut in half longitudinally (lengthwise, in other words).  If anybody out there has the equipment to do this for me I would be plumb grateful and reimburse you for your trouble.  Thanx!

[mnl]

If you have a small table saw that will take a slotting saw blade it is fairly easy to make a fixture to hold the tube while you run it through the saw. A block of wood bored to the o.d. of the tube and the length of the tube. The make two tapered plugs bored to take a piece of suitable all thread. Slide the tube into the block, insert a plug in each end and draw up the bolt. That will hold the tube while you run it through the saw. Remove the plugs, slide the tube out and rotate it 180 degrees. Put it back in the block, insert the plugs and draw the up tight. That will expand the tube against the block. Run it through the saw again, remove the plugs and the two halves will fall out.

[brunelrussell]

Brunelrussell here: the only problem with your advice is the fact that I don't have any kind of power equipment and can't see getting any for just one job, so I prefer to 'farm it out'.  Any takers?

[lmagna]

I am not certain what diameter your tubing is, but I am fairly certain that you can go to the hardware store and pick up either a U or a V shaped piece of molding. Lay the tubing in the "Cradle" and use an older knife blade or craft knife to make repeated slices or scrapes along the straight edge of the guide until you get all of the way through. It may take a little while but like you said it is a one time thing.

[brunelrussell]

Brunelrussell here: After careful consideration, I've decided to use 3/4 inch brass tube built up with plastic card, which also provides a nice thin upper edge.  Thanks to all for your advice, though.

[Ian_Grant]

I'd love to see some progress shots of your "Great Eastern"..............

[brunelrussell]

brunelrussell here: I can't display any images of my Great Eastern model because I don't have the equipment- I don't even own a computer, but have to use the library.  Maybe I'll try a verbal description but it would be awful long and dull.

[brunelrussell]

Guess what, people!  I, like, totally cut the aluminum tubes all by myself!  It doesn't pay to look too close at the first one but it's usable.  I guess the moderator can eliminate this thread.

[Bob Cleek]

This thread shouldn't be eliminated. It should be preserved for posterity. It proves that determination and thought will provide the solution of most any daunting modeling challenge. As they say, "It shows you're thinking!" All to often, someone posts a question, gets the answer, and then argues about why it can't be done that way.