How Oxy-Fuel Cutting Works
The process of using an oxy-fuel cutting stream dates back to 1907. It is most accurately described as rapid controlled rusting, used for purpose of metal breakdown. Oxy-fuel itself is a chemical reaction between pure oxygen and steel to form iron oxide.
Oxy-fuel cutting works by using preheat flames to raise the surface or edge of a metal, for example steel, to approximately 1800°F . Pure oxygen is then directed toward the heated area in a fine, high pressure stream. The steel is rapidly oxidised and is blown away from the cutting area, which leaves a cavity. The preheat and oxygen stream are moved at consistent pace to form a continuous cut.
Only certain metals can be cut with the oxy-fuel process. The metal must have oxides with a lower melting point than the base metal itself. If it doesn’t the metal will oxidise too quickly, preventing complete oxidation by forming a protective crust.
Low carbon steel and some low alloys are the only metals that can be cut effectively with the oxy-fuel process.