[Shop-talk] oxy-acetylene cutting

[David C.]

First, what size tip are you using?  How thick is the metal?  It 
sounds like you are probably using a "normal" OO size tip (or so), 
and your pressures sound spot on.

We had exactly the same problem with the cutting rig in my school 
shop when I took over.  The problem was a dirty/messed up tip.  The 
holes in the tip are very small and precise and if the cutting gas 
swirl pattern isn't just right, it won't cut right.  It'll plug up 
the cut with slag like you're getting, and it will also make a nasty 
looking kerf.

The first thing I would do is get a set of tip cleaners and clean the 
tip and try again.  If you are still having the same problem, get a 
new cutting tip from a welding shop (not the Borg), and ask the sales 
guy if they have a sample cutting/welding table setup, and  have him 
critique your technique and maybe offer some pointers.  New cutting 
tips are cheap, and I'll bet that's your problem.  Make sure you're 
not getting too close to the work with your tip; if you overheat and 
get popping it can contaminate your tip.  Also never bang on anything 
with the tip.

Dave C


At 11:05 AM  5/28/2008, you wrote:
>Quick question about oxy-acetylene cutting.
>
>When I cut with my torch, the molten metal breconnectsbbehind my cut.
>This means that I need to go back and recut the metal to separate it.
>
>I have my acetylene set at around 7psi and my O2 at about 20 psi.
>
>I light the acetylene and reduce the flame until itbs just starting to
>quiet down then add the O2 until the blue flames are just tips.
>
>What am I doing wrong?
>
>Thanks.
>
>
>
>
>Moose
>
>"We all know we're dying, And there's no sign of a parachute."
>      Tori Amos
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