Scroll saw - loud?

[Crunchy Theory]

I'm thinking of investing in a scroll saw as I am looking to get some better quality cuts than what my Dremel tool is capable of. I live an apartment (no garage) and not having any complaints from neighbors when I'm using my heat gun or Dremel, I'd like to keep it that way. Some scroll saws (like the current DeWalt model: http://www.lowes.com/pd_93653-70-DW788_4294857525_4294937087_?productId=3069687&Ns=p_product_prd_lis_ord_nbr|0||p_product_quantity_sold|1&pl=1&currentURL=%2Fpl_Band%2BScroll%2BSaws_4294857525_4294937087_%3FNs%3Dp_product_prd_lis_ord_nbr|0||p_product_quantity_sold|1) list quieter operation as a feature, but are they just loud in general even with this noise reduction?

I know "loud" is a subjective term, but at least compared to a Dremel at high speed? I figure it might be quiet enough since it's such a small blade, but it is an electric power tool afterall...

I'm only interested in using it for cutting HDPE, by the way. No wood or metal for me. So I'd probably only be using it at lower speeds.

[Metal Slug 2]

Scroll saws are among the "quieter" power tools, so your probably safe. However, keep in mind that most of the sound created when using a cutting power tool occurs when the blade come in contact with the material you need to cut.  I dont know what cutting HDPE is like, as i have never used the material.  But i can tell you that cutting Polycarbonate sheeting (which I believe is a harder and more brittle material than HDPE, correct me if I'm wrong) is very noisy...at least on my bandsaw...

[Soeren]

Hi,

Don't worry, those small scroll saws are quiter than a Dremel - at least mine is (different make). You could add some damper material under it, to avoid vibes transferring into floor wall, but in general, they are very unproblematic and neighbor friendly.

[Crunchy Theory]

Excellent, thanks for your response guys!

[Admin]

My scroll saw is about as loud as my Dremel at max speed.

Make sure it has a solid mount to your table that doesn't vibrate, and the sound will be minimal.

[T0110100101101101K]

I'm only interested in using it for cutting HDPE, by the way. No wood or metal for me. So I'd probably only be using it at lower speeds.

Even with a high tooth count blade you can still suffer chatter marks if you go to fast through 1/2" HDPE.  HDPE is very soft and it melts easy, so depending on the thickness you may be able to use metal-cutting shears (for superior stealth).  If you have the money, you could get a CO2 laser.  Laser warning signs will keep your neighbors at bay. 

[Crunchy Theory]

I'm only interested in using it for cutting HDPE, by the way. No wood or metal for me. So I'd probably only be using it at lower speeds.

Even with a high tooth count blade you can still suffer chatter marks if you go to fast through 1/2" HDPE.  HDPE is very soft and it melts easy, so depending on the thickness you may be able to use metal-cutting shears (for superior stealth).  If you have the money, you could get a CO2 laser.  Laser warning signs will keep your neighbors at bay. 

Hmm... a laser, eh....