Print Page - Cutting glass for Ha Mod

Title: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: The Thing on Dec 06, 2009, 17:44:20

Hi folks,

My 350D² is now half Ha'ed. Its in bits but I don't have time to reassemble.

I need to re-cut the Edmunds Optical glass as it didn't crack straight first time round. Before I waste any more I am fishing round for tips. I think a better glass cutting tool must be first on the list.

Thanks in advance...

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: Ian on Dec 06, 2009, 19:54:00

tile cutter, only score once, deeply. place on a small diameter rod, in line with the score, press down evenly and gently until the glass gives way at the score.

Although I've not tried it with glass, a carborundum disc will probably trim off thin bits. Just avoid pressing too hard and building up too much heat.

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: PhilB on Dec 06, 2009, 20:05:24

A carborundum disc can be used to cut glass but they don't go round corners too well. It can also shower everything with powered glass, so take care

Phil

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: MarkS on Dec 06, 2009, 23:01:52

Quote from: Ian
tile cutter, only score once, deeply. place on a small diameter rod, in line with the score, press down evenly and gently until the glass gives way at the score.

Like Ian says, score then break evenly. I used a glass cutter though - one of those with six cutting wheels on a turret - probably doesn't make much difference as long as it scores the glass cleanly.

Mark

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: Ian on Dec 06, 2009, 23:52:33

that's it Mark, one with a wheel cutter, not a tungsten carbide nail...

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: The Thing on Dec 08, 2009, 22:00:11

Thanks guys, the tip about the rod as a support for snapping the glass may be the key.
I will see what I can find in the way of glass cutters in Robert Dyas tomorrow when I am up in the City.

Title: Glass has been cut for Ha Mod!!!!!!
Post by: The Thing on Dec 11, 2009, 18:22:19

Thanks guys,

The glass snapped easily with a tungsten carbide scribe and a thin rod under it.

My 350D² is now Ha!
Looks like it focuses OK (hand held no flash).

First Light image with camera set to defaults:
(http://ancientlight.amateur-astronomy.org//350D2_Ha/350D2_Ha_%20First%20Light_sm.jpg)
Large size: http://ancientlight.amateur-astronomy.org//350D2_Ha/350D2_Ha_%20First%20Light.jpg
(http://ancientlight.amateur-astronomy.org//350D2_Ha/350D2_Ha_%20First%20Light.jpg)

FYI: Robert Dyas no longer do glass cutting tools. What is the world coming to? I don't know. Toolstation from now on...

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: RobertM on Dec 11, 2009, 19:26:53

Good job Duncan.

Know what you mean about Robert Dyas, they're looking like the old Woolworths these days...

Title: Re: Cutting glass for Ha Mod
Post by: MarkS on Dec 11, 2009, 19:46:02

Well done Duncan!

You're now an official member of the elite club of 350D modders.

I'm looking forward to your first (astro) light.

Mark

Orpington Astronomical Society

Astronomy => Technical => Topic started by: The Thing on Dec 06, 2009, 17:44:20