Exothermic electrode cutting technique. The 1/4-inch Exothermic electrode may be used to cut steel up to 1/2 inch in thickness. The 1/4 inch electrode leaves a narrow kerf and is preferable for fine cutting. When visibility is poor or when cutting heavier steel, the 3/8-inch electrode is more efficient. The following techniques are recommended: a. Insert the electrode into the
Read more →Trouble Shooting Exothermic Electrodes. Oxy-arc, especially exothermic cutting relies on an unobstructed oxygen flow to be most effective. With inadequate oxygen flow, the rod will burn but not produce the desired cutting effect. Since the actual cutting result is derived from the volume of oxygen reaching the target, any restriction in oxygen flow will decrease efficiency. Symptoms. The following are
Read more →Cutting with MAPP gas. (1) Quality cuts with MAPP gas require a proper balance between preheat flame adjustment, oxygen pressure, coupling distance, torch angle, travel speed, plate quality, and tip size. Oxyfuel ratios to control flame condition are given in table 11-4. (2) MAPP gas is similar to acetylene and other fuel gases in that it can be made to
Read more →Cutting Steel and Cast Iron. (1) General. Plain carbon steels with a carbon content not exceeding 0.25 percent can be cut without special precautions other than those required to obtain cuts of good quality. Certain steel alloys develop high resistance to the action of the cutting oxygen, making it difficult and sometimes impossible to propagate the cut without the use
Read more →General. (1) If iron or steel is heated to its kindling temperature (not less than 1600°F (871°C)), and is then brought into contact with oxygen, it burns or oxidizes very rapidly. The reaction of oxygen with the iron or steel forms iron oxide (Fe3O4) and gives off considerable heat. This heat is sufficient to melt the oxide and some of
Read more →