Thermal oxygen cutting

Description of the technology

Thermal oxygen cutting involves burning a slit in the material using a jet of oxygen in conjunction with a heat source, usually an oxy-acetylene gas flame. In addition to acetylene, other flammable gases such as propane, butane, methane or hydrogen can also be used. During the process, the workpiece material is heated to combustion temperature and the molten metal is then removed from the slit using a high-pressure gas jet.

The technology makes it possible to cut thick sheet metal and sheet metal packages (up to 200-300 mm), as well as varnished or corroded parts.

Visualisation of action

Workpiece material types

  • carbon steel
  • low alloy steel

Examples of products

  • steel structures
  • cutting metal components (e.g. frames; undercarriages and other structural components)
  • cutting aircraft components
  • cutting spacecraft components
  • cutting components of heavy machinery (e.g. bulldozers)

Implementation of the technology

Required resources

  • acetylene-oxygen torch
  • power source
  • tooling

Required competences

  • training in torch cutting
  • extensive practical experience in cutting processes

Environmental aspects

Water consumption

Energy consumption

Waste generated

Expert evaluation

Competitiveness

Usability

Environmental impact

Development centers

  • none

Legal conditions

Companies using the technology