cutting a 155mm aluminum disk

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I need to cut a 155mm circle/disk (using the inside plug portion) out of 1/8 or 1/4 aluminum. So far my plan is to try to use a router with a circle cutting jig, but I would really like to avoid drilling a hole in the center of the piece. Does anyone on here have any other ideas or a way to easily cut these? waterjet, etc, I only need 4Thanks-Chris
Reply:Why not use a plywood template and a bearing guide/follower on the cutter.  Maybe get them plasma cut by a cutting service that has a plasma cutting table.
Reply:chris,You've really got several options which will get the job done.  Really depends on how accurate you need the parts, and how much effort you're willing to put forth.Easiest way is to take them to a fab shop and have them cut on a water jet or with a laser. Either will produce a very accurate and "weld ready" part.You could have them cut with plasma, but the plasma will leave an "oxide edge" which should be removed before welding.You could cut them out with a jig saw and then use a router to "true" them up.  Here, I'd attach the aluminum to a circular disc made from 3/4" plywood.  Atttach the aluminum to the plywood with double sided carpet tape.  Use the center hole in the plywood as your pivot point.  That way you  don't need a hole in the aluminum.  I'd do this on my router table, using a 1/2" two cutter carbide bit.  A little beeswax on the carbide cutter will prevent the aluminum from galling.Many ways to tackle this bear.  Just need to use a little imagination.Syncro 250 DX Dynasty 200 DXMM 251 w/30A SG XMT 304 w/714 Feeder & Optima PulserHH187Dialarc 250 AC/DCHypertherm PM 1250Smith, Harris, Victor O/ASmith and Thermco Gas MixersAccess to a full fab shop with CNC Plasma, Water Jet, etc.