Earlier this week, I posted details of two new Hot Wire Foam Cutters that I bought via e-bay, for details see this Blog post. But I thought you may want to see the home-made model that I have been using for some time.
The cutter was built from scrap strip wood, some spare nuts and bolts plus a second-hand (and very well used) Hornby train set transformer. It has done sterling work over the years that I have had it but I thought it was time I upgraded to the two newer models. My biggest criticism with this model is that it does NOT have an on-off switch. If I was to build another I would definitely add a simple switch.
I have to admit to tidying it up for this photo - I added new cable ties and re-wrapped the handle with more yellow tape. I think this is the best it has ever looked!
Tony
4 comments:
Neat! What amperage do you recommend for the transformer and what gauge wire?
"What amperage do you recommend for the transformer and what gauge wire?"
The transformer is a Hornby Model Railway Transformer - 240 volts mains - reduced to - 16 volts. The wire is 28 AWG (which might be a bit too high/strong but works fine) - I picked the Nickel wire (nichrome) up via e-bay.
See this link;
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hot-wire-foam-cutter-spare-replacement-wire-polystyrene-styrofoam/193030984598?hash=item2cf18b1396:m:mIfrvTUAVz9s1Hy4__v5NKg
I hope that this helps. In truth, it's a bit of trial and error.....
Tony
UPDATE.....
I've checked and now think it's a Scalextrix transformer not a Hornby model railway transformer.
Tony
Thanks Tony :-)
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