Gas Cutting
By David Muthii
What is Gas Cutting?
T HE R MAL PR OCE SS OXY- F UE L CUT T IN G VE RSAT ILE APPLICAT ION
Gas cutting uses a combination of Also known as oxy-fuel cutting, it is a Gas cutting is used across various
oxygen and fuel gas to melt and sever widely used metalworking technique. industries, including construction,
metal. shipbuilding, and metal
fabrication.
GAS CUT TIN G IS A VERSATI LE AND EFFI CIENT THERMAL PROCESS THAT
UTILI ZES TH E COMBI NATI ON OF OXYGEN AND FUEL G AS TO MELT AND
SEVER METAL, ENABLING A WIDE RANGE OF METALWORK I NG
APPLICATIONS.
History of Gas Cutting
L AT E 19T H 1940S - 1950S
CE NT URY
Improvements in
Origins of gas oxygen and fuel
cutting process gas technologies
E ARLY 20T H 1970S - 1980S
CE NT URY
Automation and
Advancements in computerization of
cutting torch gas cutting systems
design
Benefits of Gas Cutting
SPEED PRECISION C O S T- E F F E C T I V E N E SS
Gas cutting allows for rapid The controlled application of the Gas cutting is a relatively
removal of material, making it an oxygen-fuel gas mixture enables inexpensive metalworking process
effi cient choice for time-sensitive precise, accurate cuts with minimal compared to alternative cutting
metalworking projects. distortion or taper. methods, making it a cost-effective
solution for various applications.
V E R S AT I L I T Y P O RTA B I L I T Y MINIMAL CLEANUP
Gas cutting can be used to cut a Gas cutting equipment is relatively The clean, precision cuts made by
wide range of metal thicknesses lightweight and portable, enabling gas cutting often require minimal
and types, allowing it to be applied it to be used in various job site post-processing or cleanup, saving
in diverse metalworking industries locations and environments. time and resources.
and projects.
Key Components of
a Gas Cutting
The key components of a gas Setup
cutting setup include the fuel gas, such as
acetylene or propane, which provides the heat source, and the oxygen
supply, which enhances the cutting process. The cutting torch is the
central tool that controls and directs the gas flow to the workpiece.
Additionally, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a
face shield, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing, is essential for ensuring
the safety of the operator.
Step-by-Step Gas Cutting Process
Ensure all the necessary
components, such as the fuel gas, Carefully adjust the fuel gas and
oxygen supply, cutting torch, and oxygen pressures to the Securely clamp or support the metal
personal protective equipment recommended levels for the specific workpiece in a stable position, Use the cutting torch to preheat the
(PPE), are properly connected and metal thickness and cutting ensuring it is accessible for the metal to the appropriate
ready for use. application. cutting process. temperature, preparing it for the
cutting process.
ADJUS T GAS POSITION T H E
S E T UP T H E E QUIPME NT PRE HE AT T H E METAL
PRE SS URE S WORKPIE CE
MON ITOR T HE
IN IT IAT E T HE CUT F INISH T H E CUT
PROCESS
Carefully maneuver the cutting Closely monitor the cutting process, Maintain the cutting torch position
torch, maintaining the correct angle adjusting the torch position and gas until the cut is complete, then
and speed, to initiate and guide the pressures as needed, to ensure a slowly withdraw the torch to
cut through the metal. clean, consistent, and controlled prevent any unintended damage to
cut. the workpiece.
Applications of Gas Cutting
CONS T RUCT ION APPL ICAT IONS S HIPBUILDIN G APPLICAT ION S ME TAL FABRICATION APPLICAT IONS
Gas cutting used for structural steel Gas cutting employed for cutting ship hull Gas cutting utilized for precision plate cutting,
fabrication and erection plates and components beveling, and piercing
Safety Considerations
• P R O P E R P R O T E C T I VE E Q UI P M E N T• P R O P E R G A S C YL I N D E R
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment HANDLING
(PPE) such as flame-resistant clothing, safety Handle gas cylinders with care, secure them
glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots to protect upright, and follow proper storage and
against sparks, heat, and physical hazards. transportation guidelines to prevent accidents.
• W E L L -V E N T I L AT E D W OR K AR E A • ADHERENCE TO SAFETY
Ensure the work area is well-ventilated to prevent P R O T O C O L S
the buildup of hazardous fumes and gases Strictly adhere to established safety protocols and
generated during the gas cutting process. guidelines for gas cutting operations, including
proper setup, operation, and shutdown
• F I R E P R E V E N T I ON ME A S UR E S procedures.
Implement fire prevention measures, such as
keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and clearing
the work area of flammable materials to mitigate
the risk of fire.
