[velonomad]

I am about to cut a full carbon fiber fork with a hacksaw. Is there any special type of hack saw blade that is recommended for cutting a carbon fiber steerer tube? thanks

 

[Anti-gravity]

Fine tooth blade

I am about to cut a full carbon fiber fork with a hacksaw. Is there any special type of hack saw blade that is recommended for cutting a carbon fiber steerer tube? thanks

About a 32 tpi blade is recommended. Wrap the steerer in masking tape or use a cutting guide to get a straight, clean cut, then smooth out any rough edges with fine emery cloth.

 

[Al1943]

Automotive hose clamps work pretty well as cutting guides.

Al

 

[Mr. Versatile]

I agree with the above 2 posters, but I'd like to add, measure twice...cut once. If fact, measure 3 or 4 times...then cut once.

 

[DieselDan]

When you cut, let the blade do its job and don't force the issue. Take it easy and take your time.

 

[mattfatlander]

rotate steerer

also..rotate the steerer about forty-five degrees in the clamp after you're about halfway through (maybe a bit further). Then do it again after several more mm's have been cut. This will help not to splinter fibers on the "underside" of the steerer as it's being cut. Just be sure not to start another cut when you do this-take care to stay in the original "trench".

 

[velonomad]

Thanks for the replies. Since I will be using Park fork saw guide to cut the steerer, do I still need to wrap the steerer in masking tape? Also, is there any particular grit number of emery paper I should use to smooth out the cut edges? Thanks

 

[cdhbrad]

I would for two reasons

1. You will be able to see your mark for cutting easier on the tape than on the carbon tube, and 2. the tape will help reduce splintering of the outer fibers as you cut. Do this all the time in woodworking when you want to reduce splintering in materials, same thing here.
Any of the finer grades of emery cloth will work for cleaning up the cut edge.