On Sun, 25 Jun 2017 07:35:12 -0400, JBL wrote:

I just wanted to ask about this possible alternative for cutting the
aluminum:
a neighbor offered to let me use his Craftsman 10" bandsaw. Would this
be able to cut the 1/2" aluminum or not large enough a saw?

It will cut it with the right blade if you don't force it. Even a
porta-band will do the job.