DIY crack-off machine

[6degreesofseparation]

I'm pretty sure I can manage making my own crack-off machine instead of spending thousands of dollars on a brand new one. I know I might need the diamond bit (like the wheel dressing tools) for scoring the glass then the hydrogen torch to heat the score line from inside the tube. Any tips from those who pulled this off?

 

[glassonions]

I'm pretty sure I can manage making my own crack-off machine instead of spending thousands of dollars on a brand new one. I know I might need the diamond bit (like the wheel dressing tools) for scoring the glass then the hydrogen torch to heat the score line from inside the tube. Any tips from those who pulled this off?

I think the principle is pretty simple, score clean, heat evenly, and control your break. Diamond bit's a must, and the hydrogen torch requires you to be precise. If you can, rig up a rotating fixture so your heat stays uniform.

 

[spoilers78]

Try to make the line very even, this helps it break cleanly. And when you use the torch be careful to heat just the line you scored

 

[skylar00]

Yeah lots of people build their own. Just make sure your score is consistent and your heat is even. Some add a rotation rig for cleaner breaks. Safety first though, cracks can run wild if things arent aligned right.

 

[Aunt Wu]

f you can build a functional crack-off machine with basic parts and some ingenuity, it proves a lot of pro glassblowing gear is priced more for prestige than actual performance