Making Nicer Torch Cuts ???

[Gordon Gould]

In the past when I make torch cuts I just hack it off and say well there that was easy. But now I would like to make some cleaner cuts like I have seen others do that will be in the root of a weld and places I can't get my grinder. Here are some of my hack cuts I made the other day in 1/2" plate. I would like to experiment to get them better but do not have a clue what to change. I have an old PUROX CW200 torch. Book says 6 psi Acetylene 30-40 psi Ox for 1/2" - I run 35. I have ground the top and bottom of these cuts but anything you can tell me would be good. Thanks



gg

 

[Mysfyt]

Looks to me like your tip is plugged. Acetylene is dirty, and every time I use my torch I run the tip cleaner through the center hole. Also, if the tip is worn down and angled, might be time for a new one. Sometimes you can file them back flat and extend the life a bit.
Steady hand and even speed is the secret to to good edge quality. There are some decent videos on youtube that will help.

 

[RedNeckRacin]

The machine shop down the road from me uses a cutting table with an acetylene torch that cuts beautiful square edges so i imagine its a practice thing.

 

[Shield Arc]

I've never really been that good with a torch. Over the years I have worked with guys who were amazing with a torch.
When adjusting the torch, you want a neutral flame. Then slowing press the oxygen lever. Find the spot where the cutting cone goes out from the tip the farthest. Remember that spot! Another big help is a magnetic burning square.

 

[George2615]

When using my torch and I want a cleaner / straighter edge I clamp a piece of angle on my cut line then run the torch along the angle. Freehand cuts are never straight for me.

 

[dieselcrawler]

When using my torch and I want a cleaner / straighter edge I clamp a piece of angle on my cut line then run the torch along the angle. Freehand cuts are never straight for me.

X2...

Young fella I used to work with was d@mn good with a torch... we hired in about the same time, he was only 23 yo at the time, didnt last long, quit after a few months. I had been using torches longer than he had been alive, but he could freehand some of the nicest cuts I've seen, straight or curved. Good welder too...

I need a guide to cut anything nice.

 

[aarolar]

I could teach you in 30 mins what I couldn't explain in 10 days on this here interweb. Nothing replaces hands on teaching.

 

[Gordon Gould]

Thanks, I'll clean my tip and see what I can do with some guides.

gg

 

[aarolar]

A clean and properly adjusted torch tip should make a ripping sound when the trigger is held down.

After cleaning hold down down the trigger and work the oxy pressure up and down slowly you should find the sweet spot this way.

 

[Gordon Gould]

OK I will look for that sweet spot-thanks again. I do occasionally here a whistle but never paid attention to it.