What is a hot wire foam and polystyrene cutter?

The hot wire foam and polystyrene cutter is a tool designed specifically to allow modellers to cut foam, polystyrene and other similar materials to specific shapes. It works using a heated wire, secured between the frame arms of the cutter, melting through the foam as it goes. The majority of cutters are battery powered, whereas higher-end use requirements could be satisfied by a mains-powered unit.

Traditional methods of shaping foam, including knives and other similar hobby tools, are generally slower and less precise as they are difficult to use accurately due to the texture of the foam. This can mean that the whole process can be messy and inefficient. Where a hot foam cutter scores over more traditional methods is in its ability to offer graceful, flowing shapes that can be contoured very easily depending on the particular requirements of your diorama. The hot wire is much more efficient at cutting foam and as such is not adversely affected by the particular grain of the foam. Using a hot wire cutter will also produce far less waste and unwanted residue meaning that more of the foam is potentially available for use in a project.

As with any cutting device, there is always the possibility that unwanted dust or similar by-products can be released into the air and a hot wire foam cutter is no exception. The hot temperature of the wire could cause small amounts of particulate matter to be released into the air so it is recommended that modellers wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated environment.