Best Dollar Tree foam board cutting tool!

Houndpup Rc

Elite member
Like I said, I just do it in a well ventilated area.
It does smell quite strongly. I hadn't done to much cutting when I first started the thread but I have quite a bit now and I recommend having a open window on one side of the room you are cutting in and have a window fan in the window next to you. I use a heater as my intake in the winter:)
 

AIRFORGE

Make It Fly!
Moderator
It does smell quite strongly. I hadn't done to much cutting when I first started the thread but I have quite a bit now and I recommend having a open window on one side of the room you are cutting in and have a window fan in the window next to you. I use a heater as my intake in the winter:)
Opening a window is not adequate ventilation. You need vacuum dust collection. Preferably with a filter. I use a simple modified wet/dry shop vac with a HEPA filter. You can get an appropriate dust mask if you are unable to get a dust collection setup but there will be more to clean up after cutting.
 

Houndpup Rc

Elite member
Opening a window is not adequate ventilation. You need vacuum dust collection. Preferably with a filter. I use a simple modified wet/dry shop vac with a HEPA filter. You can get an appropriate dust mask if you are unable to get a dust collection setup but there will be more to clean up after cutting.
There is no dust, it just melts through. Just a somewhat strong smell.
 

Houndpup Rc

Elite member
So yeah,it looks like its fine to cut foam board with a hot knife but you should use proper safety measures. It wouldn't make sense that you couldn't cut foam board at all with a hot knife because they sell tools all over amazon for cutting foam. I really like how much better it cuts than a regular razor! I don't think I could have had such clean cuts on my P - 38 if I didn't use it. Here is what google AI compiled as far as the safety of cutting foam board with a hot knife



While cutting Adams foam board with a hot knife isn't inherently "toxic," it can produce fumes that are considered harmful if inhaled, so it's important to always work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask when cutting large amounts of foam with a hot knife; check the specific foam board manufacturer's safety guidelines for the best practices.



Key points to remember:
  • Fumes from heated foam:
    When a hot knife melts the foam, it releases small particles and fumes that can irritate your respiratory system, especially if not properly ventilated.
  • Check the foam type:
    Different types of foam may produce different levels of fumes, so always check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific foam board you're using.

  • Safety measures:
    • Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors or with a fan directed away from you.
  • Mask: Wear a respirator or dust mask to filter out the particles.
 

Mr Man

Elite member
So yeah,it looks like its fine to cut foam board with a hot knife but you should use proper safety measures. It wouldn't make sense that you couldn't cut foam board at all with a hot knife because they sell tools all over amazon for cutting foam. I really like how much better it cuts than a regular razor! I don't think I could have had such clean cuts on my P - 38 if I didn't use it. Here is what google AI compiled as far as the safety of cutting foam board with a hot knife



While cutting Adams foam board with a hot knife isn't inherently "toxic," it can produce fumes that are considered harmful if inhaled, so it's important to always work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask when cutting large amounts of foam with a hot knife; check the specific foam board manufacturer's safety guidelines for the best practices.



Key points to remember:
  • Fumes from heated foam:
    When a hot knife melts the foam, it releases small particles and fumes that can irritate your respiratory system, especially if not properly ventilated.

  • Check the foam type:
    Different types of foam may produce different levels of fumes, so always check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific foam board you're using.


  • Safety measures:
    • Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors or with a fan directed away from you.

  • Mask: Wear a respirator or dust mask to filter out the particles.
Yep, that all agrees with my opinions.
 

AIRFORGE

Make It Fly!
Moderator
So yeah,it looks like its fine to cut foam board with a hot knife but you should use proper safety measures. It wouldn't make sense that you couldn't cut foam board at all with a hot knife because they sell tools all over amazon for cutting foam. I really like how much better it cuts than a regular razor! I don't think I could have had such clean cuts on my P - 38 if I didn't use it. Here is what google AI compiled as far as the safety of cutting foam board with a hot knife



While cutting Adams foam board with a hot knife isn't inherently "toxic," it can produce fumes that are considered harmful if inhaled, so it's important to always work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask when cutting large amounts of foam with a hot knife; check the specific foam board manufacturer's safety guidelines for the best practices.



Key points to remember:
  • Fumes from heated foam:
    When a hot knife melts the foam, it releases small particles and fumes that can irritate your respiratory system, especially if not properly ventilated.

  • Check the foam type:
    Different types of foam may produce different levels of fumes, so always check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific foam board you're using.


  • Safety measures:
    • Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors or with a fan directed away from you.

  • Mask: Wear a respirator or dust mask to filter out the particles.
As I said.
 

AIRFORGE

Make It Fly!
Moderator
I think the main takeaway here is for us to be careful. Especially if we do this repeatedly. I've been CNC cutting carbon fiber, plastics, wood, foam board, etc., for a long time. I always have a vacuum running for the foam and use the vacuum and a mask when cutting and cleaning carbon. (y)
 

Houndpup Rc

Elite member
I think the main takeaway here is for us to be careful. Especially if we do this repeatedly. I've been CNC cutting carbon fiber, plastics, wood, foam board, etc., for a long time. I always have a vacuum running for the foam and use the vacuum and a mask when cutting and cleaning carbon. (y)
Agreed.👍 The strong point of using the hot knife is when doing detail. For straight lines I like to use a ruler or for big things a 4' T square with a good sharp razor. but for all the detailing I like using the hot knife.