What Is a Styrofoam Cutter?
A styrofoam cutter is a tool used to cut styrofoam. There are two main types: exothermic and blade types.
It is important to select the appropriate cutter according to the type of styrofoam and the type of processing to be performed.
Uses of Styrofoam Cutters
Styrofoam cutters are used in a wide range of applications, from children’s crafts to DIY and professional workplaces. While hot cutters, heat cutters, and hot knives can cut plastic and PVC, styrofoam cutters are specialized for cutting styrofoam and styrene boards.
Regular cutters are not suited for cutting styrofoam, which can lead to uneven cut surfaces and unexpected injuries. Since there are many types of styrofoam cutters, using the right one for the purpose of the job will lead to improved work efficiency and accuracy of the finished product.
Principle of Styrofoam Cutters
There are two types of styrofoam cutters: the heat-generating type and the blade type.
1. Heat-Generating Type
Heat-generating cutters generate heat by passing an electric current through a nichrome wire, which melts styrofoam while cutting.
2. Blade Type
Blade-type cutters have fine blades and cut styrofoam by pressing and applying force to the cutter.
Types of Styrofoam Cutters
1. Heat-Generating Type
The heat-generating type uses heated nichrome wire to melt styrene foam for cutting, resulting in a clean-cut surface and no shavings. There are U-shaped, pen-shaped, and tabletop types. It is mainly suited for detailed work.
2. Blade Type
The blade type is mainly used for cutting with a fine corrugated blade like a saw. Since styrofoam is cut by sawing rather than melting, the cut surface is rough and shavings are produced. This type of cutter is suitable for cutting large pieces of styrene foam.
How to Choose Styrofoam Cutters
Styrofoam cutters of the exothermic type are used to cut relatively small pieces of styrofoam. On the other hand, the blade type is often used for cutting larger styrofoam.
1. Uses
Heat-generating U-shaped and pen-shaped types are suitable for fine work such as cutting curves, creating cutouts, and three-dimensional modeling, such as figures, as well as for processing small materials. However, they are not suitable for large or thick materials.
The tabletop type is similar to a tabletop electric thread saw and can cut to exact dimensions and angles. Since you can handle the material with both hands, you can work calmly and accurately.
The blade type is suitable for cutting large materials. Since it does not require a power source, it can be used outdoors. They are also used for cutting insulation materials at construction sites.
2. Power-Operated and Battery-Powered Types
There are two types of heat-generating types: battery type, in which a battery is inserted into the tool, and power supply type, in which the tool is connected to an outlet and powered by an electric power source. The power supply type should be selected when working for long hours or when cutting large or hard materials at high temperatures is required, while the battery type should be selected when portability is important.
3. ON/OFF Switchable Type and Button Type
There are two types of heat-generating types: those that are switched on/off and those that are used by pressing a button. When used for long periods of time, the switchable type is convenient and less stressful on the hands.
When not in use, the power must be turned off for safety reasons. For use by children or for short periods of time, the type that generates heat only when the button is pressed is suitable.
4. Whether an Attachment Is Used
The end of the power supply has an attachment that can be switched to a pen or U-shape depending on the purpose. This type of cutter is suitable for diorama creation and hobby use.
Other Information on Styrofoam Cutters
How to Use Styrofoam Cutters
1. Heat-Generating Type
Heat-generating styrofoam cutters cut styrofoam into the desired shape by slowly touching the wire to the styrofoam and melting it. If the cutter is moved too fast, the styrofoam cutter will not melt sufficiently, causing it to snag.
2. Blade Type
When using a blade-type cutter, place the blade on the styrofoam cutter and press down to cut, being conscious of exerting force when pressing. Unlike the heat-generating type, chips are generated, so cleaning up after work is necessary.