Tube slicing technique

A method of separating a length of hollow, thin-walled metal tubing into predetermined lengths having substantially burr-free parted ends comprising the steps of providing a length of hollow flat tubing having flat upper and lower walls joined by end walls, partially severing the tubing by providing relative movement between said tubing and opposed circular slitting blades and by completely severing the upper and lower walls of said tubing, said movement comprising rectilinear movement of said blades at a predetermined linear velocity in a direction generally parallel to the upper and lower walls and transverse to a longitudinal axis of said tubing and said movement further comprising simultaneous rotational movement of said blades at a predetermined angular velocity which exceeds said linear velocity, and completely severing the tubing by applying an axial force to said tubing sufficient to exceed the ultimate strength of said tubing.