Im in the process of making my own carbon fiber exhaust protector on my back bumper. What can i use to cut carbon fiber? I want a really clean cut.

 

Dremel is what most (including myself) used for cutting holes for hood latches. Very clean cut, high speed, no stress or cracking, I think it is ideal, and you can sand it down smooth, though it takes a ton of skill to do a straight line unless you have some templates or guides.

 

Cutting carbon fiber is an activity for OUTSIDE, with gloves/overalls/goggle/respirator. Vacuum yourself off, dispose the vacuumed dust, strip off outer layer, then go inside and shower. Basically use the same level of protection as painting or working with fiberglass. If you use a dremel, I'd vote for doing it at low speed (I'd use a variac for even lower speed) and cut it wet.



For a clean, straight cut you want a shear (not scissors) or a laser.



Using carbon fiber is awesome. Working with it sucks.