This set of articles contains information about cutting of metals using different kinds of arc welding processes.
When cutting a steel plate that is 1/4-inch thick or less with Steel-Tubular electrodes, use the following technique. This technique is slightly different from that used on thick plates. Instead of maintaining the electrode tip in the cut and pressing against the lip of the advancing cut, the tip should barely touch the plate surface … Read more
a. Do not allow hoses to come in contact with oil or grease. These will penetrate and deteriorate the rubber and constitute a hazard with oxygen. b. Always protect hoses from being walked on or run over. Avoid kinks and tangles. Do not leave hoses where anyone can trip over them. This could result in … Read more
When cutting a steel plate that is 1/4-inch thick or greater with Steel-Tubular electrodes, use the drag technique and proceed as follows: Insert the electrode into the collet opening until it bottoms out against the washer. Tighten the collet nut. To start the cut, hold the electrode perpendicular to the surface to be cut and … Read more
Cast iron and non-ferrous metals do not oxidize; therefore, underwater cutting essentially becomes a melting process. There is no chemical reaction between the oxygen and the base metal. Therefore, the only benefit realized by the oxygen is the mechanical effect of blowing the molten metal away. Since the melting process takes place only in the … Read more
The 1/4-inch exothermic cutting 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: Insert the electrode into the collet … Read more
When cutting non-conductive materials, a striker plate attached to the ground cable is necessary to strike an arc. The striker plate is placed next to the material to be cut. Call for SWITCH ON, squeeze the trigger slightly, drag the electrode across the striker plate and the electrode will ignite. Once the electrode is ignited, … 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 … 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 … Read more
Oxy-acetylene torches have an attachment for cutting, which can be attached to the welding torch. In oxy-acetylene cutting, the flow of oxygen is controlled by a lever. In planning the job, have the tanks firmly secured to prevent tipping over, the hose should be BEHIND you so as to protect it from damage due to … Read more
One of the major tasks in underwater cutting and welding of the Salvor is the refloating of stranded vessels and the clearance of navigable harbor areas of wrecks and grounded ships. Most often this requires the use of underwater cutting equipment. This section presents detailed technical information and procedures to be used while engaged in underwater cutting … Read more