Cutting hardened Thompson Rail.

[pbunnstf]

I have a 25" length of hardened pre-drilled 1/2 " Thompson rail that I need to cut in half.

Can someone suggest what wou d be the best method? I have a small metal cutting bandsaw. Can I scribe through the hardened outside with a dremel and then cut with the saw?

Thanks for any help.

[RICHARD ZASTROW]

You got it. Grind thru the case and then you should be able to machine it. Or use an abrasive edge saw blade.

[pbunnstf]

Thanks. I thought that would probably work but before ruining a shaft, I wanted some good advise.

[Mcgyver]

or use a hack saw after you get through the case - why risk a bandsaw blade if you didn't get all the hard stuff?

[Mueller]

I had to cut a bunch of this stuff in 25mm diameter, I used my abrasive cutoff saw as well, at least for me, the key thing was to slowly rotate the part once you get past the hardened area (you can feel/hear it)

[NEATman]

Where I work is a Thomson "cut center" and we cut and distribute thomson shafting to the northern US. The shafting is cut with an abrasive wheel and flood coolant. The ends are then ground on a belt sanding wheel. The 1/2" shafting will most likely be hardned to a depth of .06-.09". If you are cutting with a non-cooled abrasive wheel, take your time and don't overheat the part.

NEATman