Description
Shape foam into anything. The Proxxon THERMOCUT 12/E is a 12V freehand hot wire foam cutter designed for cutting thick Styrofoam into any shape — ideal for dioramas, model railroad scenery, architectural models, and prototype construction. Five shapeable cutting wires are included, so you can bend the wire to match curved profiles and cut complex shapes that a straight wire can't follow. Variable temperature control from 150–350°C lets you dial in the right heat for different foam densities.
What's Included
- THERMOCUT 12/E hot wire cutter
- 5 shapeable cutting wires
Note: An AC adapter of at least 2.0A is required for operation — not included. We recommend the Proxxon NG 2/S AC Adapter (No. 38706) or the Proxxon NG 5/E with Electronic Speed Control (No. 38704).
Key Specifications
- Power: 12V DC, 60W
- Wire temperature: 300–660°F (150–350°C) — variable
- Cutting wires: 5 shapeable wires included
- Weight: 523g (1.15 lb)
- Part No.: 27082
Applications
- Model railroad: Terrain, hills, tunnels, rock faces, and scenery in any scale
- Dioramas: Freeform landscape and structure cutting for display models
- Architecture: Scale building models, site models, and massing studies
- Prototyping & design: Concept models, product mockups, and display props
- Insulation work: Fine shaping of construction foam insulation board
THERMOCUT 12/E vs. THERMOCUT 115/E — Which Do You Need?
- 12/E (No. 27082) — 12V DC: Runs on a 12V AC adapter. Higher max temperature (350°C vs. 200°C), 5 shapeable wires for complex cuts, and lighter weight. Best for freehand and complex profile cutting.
- 115/E (No. 37080) — Mains powered: Plugs directly into 110–120V AC. Heavier bench unit. Best for straightforward cuts in a fixed studio or classroom setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an AC adapter included?
No — the THERMOCUT 12/E requires a 12V DC adapter of at least 2.0A, sold separately. The NG 2/S or NG 5/E are both compatible.
Can I shape the cutting wire?
Yes — all 5 included wires are shapeable, allowing you to bend them into curves and profiles for cutting complex foam shapes that a straight wire can't follow.
Does it produce fumes?
Yes — cutting thermoplastics produces fumes. Always use the THERMOCUT 12/E in a well-ventilated area. See the Prop 65 warning below for California residents.
Are replacement wires available?
Yes — spare cutting wires for the THERMOCUT 12/E are available separately.
Works Well With
- Spare Cutting Wire for THERMOCUT 12/E — replacement wires for extended use
- Proxxon AC Adapter NG 2/S (No. 38706) — recommended power source (2.0A minimum required)
- Proxxon AC Adapter NG 5/E with Electronic Speed Control (No. 38704) — alternative power source with variable output
- Proxxon Hot Wire Cutter THERMOCUT 115/E (No. 37080) — mains-powered alternative for bench use
Returns can only be accepted for unused product in its original packaging. A copy of the original packing slip or invoice is required. For warranty claims please call 1-877-776-9966. Please see our return and refund policy here.
California Residents Prop 65 Information


