Years ago, when I worked in a metalwork shop, there was a type of blade which was like a toothed wire, maybe say 1/16" thick, for use in cutting unusual shapes. It would fit a standard hacksaw (using a couple of little brackets at the ends.) These things would frequently break, but occasionally were useful. Can't remember how good they were for cutting mild steel, or whether they would only manage ally. Just been looking online but can't be find them. Anybody know what they are called? Phil
They're called ABRA FILES Phil. HTH
Ah yes, that's it. Thanks Ian. Phil
Hmmm...looks like they are no longer made. Saw a packet of three on a bay for £25. Think I'll give that a miss. Phil
I think I used one once in the apprentice training workshops 40+ years ago, got a blade still on the backing card at the unit,never used one since.
screwfix do a similar thing
https://www.screwfix.com/p/vitrex-tile-saw-blade/8850D?tc=CB5&ds_kid=92700022861141114&ds_rl=1241687&ds_rl=1245250&ds_rl=1244066&ds_rl=1249796&ds_rl=1245250&ds_rl=1249481&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIosmExJqa6QIVFuDtCh1zOgKvEAQYASABEgKFMPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Locksmiths use a similar gadget It has a very deep profile to allow plenty of latitude for changes of direction and it uses blades about 6/7" long with about 3/4 different teeth profiles available depending on required application! Would it be called a fret saw? or perhaps it's based on a fret saw.
fret saws have been around for many years, usually used for complicated shapes in woodwork.
I think from our experience in the training workshops the cost was higher than conventional small blades so not allowed to play with them.
these round saws have different coatings and can be used on ceramic tiles , wood or aluminium as well as steel and brass, the main use is fine detailed work. smaller fret saws were adapted for clock making so have a lot of history, the advantage of the fret saw was that it could cut tighter shapes than the coping saw that was also used in woodworking.
Also the beauty of an abra file is that you can change direction quickly as when working to an intricate shape. Another advantage is you can drill a hole, insert the blade, perform the task then remove it easily.
Coping saw blade? Fits junior hacksaw.
I bought those in Tops Tiles, same length as normal junior H/S blades.
Are they the same I wonder that I cut the tiles for the kitchen that you could cut straight and then at right angles I think they were called carburundrum but I don't know if any good on metal. Roy