help with cutting torch

[slow50]

i havent used a cutting torch in a while and i was cutting some 1/8" steel today and as i was cutting on some spots it was refusing im guessing with slag as i was cutting so i would have to go back and re cut those certain spots. anyone know what causes this?

 

[Bobhdus]

I don't know what you pressures are but are you using a "lead" angle? So the torch is blowing/ heating in the direction your going.., if it's straight up and down on the plate it will not preheat the area it needs to cut and will slag up on you. Just my guess...

 

[leadfootloon]

You were probably just moving to fast, not letting the metal heat up. Keep playing with it will all come back to you.

 

[91bronc300]

Excess slag is caused by moving too slow and uncut steel at the bottom of the cut is caused by going too fast. Acetylene is the fuel?

 

[slow50]

ya i was angleing it foreward to help pre heat. and ya acetylene. i was probably going to fast it was freezing cold out and i wanted to get it done fast. i definatly need to play with the torches more.

 

[readhead]

I know a lot of people do it but when you angle the torch forward you are actually cutting more metal than if you hold it vertical. All automated torch tables burn with the torch vertical. Travel speed is the most important part. Check your pressure settings. Low oxygen pressure will affect the cut.

 

[Zeke]

I'd say too much heat and/or not enough O2. Once the cut starts it's not the flame that cuts. You really shouldn't see that much red/yellow metal. Just sparks as the molten metal leaves.

 

[lotsoftools]

For 1/8" thick metal you shouldn't have to angle forward at all to get a good cut.

 

[Daddyoneleg]

Make sure you are using a 000 size tip. 8psi acet 20-25 psi oxy.Make sure you tip is clean.It should sound like ripping paper when you press the cut lever into the air.One thing to remember is you can dirty a clean tip in 2 sec on a bad start.Travel as fast as possible with out snuffing it out.I Have also cut lots on a mechanical patten cutter and track cutter and you would not believe how fast your travel speed can be if it is consistant.One way that has helped me over the years is to always ask yourself or someone with experience-how can I make this cut better the next time. Always clean the metal on both sides if possible.Clean metal allows for a much greater travel speed with less distortion and a nicer cut. Cheers

 

[joe49]

...everything above plus travel speed will be 25 to 30 inches a minute. When you are traveling fast enough the cutting will be a sputtering almost a buzz. CLEAN YOUR TIP OFTEN.

 

[steel 35]

If your going to do a lot of it you may try a drag tip but I don't recommend Googling it. :supergay:

 

[welder4956]

Also make sure you have a neutral flame. When you light the torch and start adding oxygen, bring the outer feather in till it just starts to go away with the cutting lever depressed. If you try to give it too much oxygen to get sharp inner cones, you will end up with an oxidizing flame.