Air Cutting Tools

Air cutting tools – also known as pneumatic cutting tools – are powerful, versatile tools powered by compressed air and used for cutting through a wide variety of materials, including metal, plastic, rubber, fibreglass, and composites. Known for their lightweight design, durability, and reliability under continuous use, they are widely used in automotive, fabrication, body repair, HVAC, and industrial settings.

Typical Applications

• Trimming automotive body panels or exhaust systems
• Cutting bolts, rivets, and fixings in tight spaces
• Shaping sheet metal, steel, aluminium, or composite panels
• HVAC ductwork modifications
• Plastic or fibreglass cutting in marine or industrial repair

An air cutting tool is a hand-held pneumatic device designed to cut through materials using compressed air as its power source. Unlike electric tools, air cutters don’t rely on internal motors or batteries, making them lighter, cooler-running, and more suitable for workshop environments where continuous use is required.

Types of air cutting tools include:

• Air Cut-Off Tools: Use high-speed abrasive discs to cut metal pipes, bolts, and sheet material.
• Air Shears: Feature scissor-like jaws for clean, straight cuts in sheet metal.
• Air Nibblers: Punch out small sections to allow for curved and intricate cuts in metal or plastics.

Always ensure you are using the correct PPE to stay safe while using an Air Cutting Tool.

Air cutting tools operate using the force of compressed air, which is converted into rotary or reciprocating motion to drive a blade, disc, or cutter head.

1. Compressed air enters the tool through the inlet (typically via a ¼" BSP fitting), regulated at around 90 PSI (6.2 bar).
2. This air pressure drives an internal rotary motor or pneumatic piston, depending on the tool type.
3. The motor or piston transfers energy to a cutting mechanism — e.g., a spinning abrasive disc, reciprocating blade, or shear head.
4. The user controls the tool via a trigger or lever, which adjusts airflow and, therefore, speed or power.
5. The tool performs the cutting task efficiently, often at high RPMs (10,000+ for rotary tools) or high strokes per minute (SPM) in reciprocating tools.

Because there are fewer moving parts and no electronic components, air cutting tools are robust, less prone to overheating, and ideal for environments with heavy use and abrasive dust.

Proper maintenance keeps your air tool operating safely and efficiently, especially under regular use.

• Daily oiling: Use pneumatic air tool oil (such as ISO 22) before and after use. Add a few drops into the air inlet to lubricate internal parts. Alternatively, use an in-line lubricator or filter-regulator-lubricator unit to maintain clean and lubricated airflow.
• Check air lines: Ensure hoses are free from leaks, kinks, and moisture. This is also vital to ensure user safety.
• Drain compressors daily: Prevent water vapour from entering and corroding the tool, as well as rusting the compressor tank.
• Store properly: Keep the tool in a dry place and ideally in a case when not in use.
• Inspect cutting accessories: Check discs, blades, or cutter heads for cracks, wear, or looseness. Replace worn or damaged components.