cutting cleanly with a torch

[CRaSHnBuRN]

this is to keep my other thread from getting off the subject.

What are the tricks for getting clean cuts from a torch, other than just practice. I've seen a guy cut 1 inch plate so clean it looked like he used a saw, yet I've seen uys who have used torches for years be able to make nothing but horrible cuts. So there has got to more to it than just practice and a steady hand

[fbronco86]

this is to keep my other thread from getting off the subject.

What are the tricks for getting clean cuts from a torch, other than just practice. I've seen a guy cut 1 inch plate so clean it looked like he used a saw, yet I've seen uys who have used torches for years be able to make nothing but horrible cuts. So there has got to more to it than just practice and a steady hand

Like st john said having the right flame is important also using the right tip.

[CRaSHnBuRN]

well, what would be the right kinda tip/flame? I've never torched a thing in my life, so info on this kinda stuff is what I'm looking for.

[agjohn02]

did frank not teach you how to set a flame in prices welding class lab? or have you taken it?

[CRaSHnBuRN]

next semester

[AggieTJ2007]

its really easy to set the torch right. First you have to get your pressures right for the tip you are using. Victor has a cutting handbook which is free and shows you the pressures.

Second you turn on the acetylene and light, adjust the acetylene untill it just stops smoking.

Third turn on oxygen untill the cone barely disapeer, hit cutting oxygen and adjust preheat oxygen untill the cone goes away and you get nice smooth tips, not too pointed though

When cutting if you cut as fast as you can but not going to fast you will get the smoothest cut

[eight]

So your acetelyn stops smoking?

The main problem I see with people getting crappy cuts is that they try to move too fast. Must take it easy. Also, crappy cutters will dirty a tip fast and tend to never clean it. You must have a clean tip to make a clean cut. Another problem would be that the person sucks.

[AggieTJ2007]

ide have to show you how I do it

[DRAGOONRANCH]

rusty material, your body position. I like to wear a regular leather work glove on my left hand (the one I rest the torch on) and place a welding glove under it while cutting. A good set of clean cutting goggles is a must also to see the chalk line and not be seeing floaties for the next hour or so. There are lots of variables that make or break a good cut. Torch time and some guidance are what it takes for most people.

[Doug Krebs]

I have an oxy propane setup, mainly because I got the propane bottle for free.

Anyone want to come over and show me how to properly "tune it". I've been cutting with a torch for a couple of years, but apparently it's craptastic. I wouldn't mine making cleaner cuts, that have less grinding time.

P.S. Karl before you leave, snag me some smaller tips for the torch. I only have ones for thick steal, which is part of the problem!

[eight]

Yea for most stuff it's best to just use the smallest tip. I need to cut some pieces to brace up my track bar mounts more. Maybe I'll come use your torch.

[DRAGOONRANCH]

see if this helps

[DRAGOONRANCH]

Remember too, a nice small light torch can be your worst enemy. The general purpose victor torch is nice and light for your average do-it yourselfer who might get tired at the end of the day holding it. They do make larger ones, I had a ST2630FC model. It was about 36" from thread to head and was heavy enough to "absorb" your shaking hand. Kind of like a bull barrell on a target rifle, the extra weight helps to steady it. It being that long, you could make 2'+ of cuts with out stopping to move your hands. This thing will be on my christmas list pretty quick.

[DRAGOONRANCH]

One could be had for around 300 I am guessing.

[mudtoy67]

When I worked at the tractor dealer the professional welder there used a piece of angle turned on its diagonal with a small piece of strap welded to it. He would rest his hand on the angle and use the strap to guide the torch when doing straight cuts. I've done this and also just used a plain piece of angle and had good results when I do straight cuts. Also, I agree with Ed, I've had easier times making clean cuts when using a heavier torch.