Your question: What is the best way/method to cut the Caruso isobond material?
Thank you for reaching out with your question! Here is a detailed overview of the best methods for cutting Caruso IsoBond material, based on industry recommendations and practical experience:
Best Method for Straight, Clean Cuts:
The most effective and precise way to cut Caruso IsoBond is to use a compression jig made from four squared timbers. Compress the material to about 3–4 cm thickness, then cut through a slot between the timbers using a flat-waved insulation knife (not serrated). This method produces clean, factory-like edges and is quick to execute. Marking can be done with any felt-tip pen. This approach is highly recommended for straight cuts.
Semi but efficient Method for Straight Cuts:
The easy but not as precise way is to use a cutter knife with carbon blades. You can buy carbon Blades in most building stores or online. Carbon blades are super sharp and for 10cm panels you might need to cut 2 or 3 times but it works well.
Alternative Manual Methods:
If you do not have a jig, you can place the IsoBond panels between two workbenches and use a power saw designed for insulation materials (such as the Bosch GFZ with a TF 350 WM blade). This works well for straight cuts but may not be as precise as the compression jig. For quick, less precise cuts, a large doner kebab knife (about 40 cm blade) can also be used.
Cutting Complex Shapes:
For intricate shapes, such as triangular columns, it is helpful to stabilize the material between heavy cardboard layers and use a long serrated breadknife. The cardboard provides stability, and the breadknife can cut through the flexible PET mesh more effectively than other blades.
What to Avoid:
Hot knives or hot wire cutters are generally not recommended, as they tend to melt and deform the material rather than cut it cleanly. Also blades with teeths should be avoided because they take out the fibres and do not cut them.