Gas Cutting Machines FAQs
Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing and using gas cutting machines.
Why use a gas cutting machine rather than cutting by hand?
A machine carries the torch at a steady speed along a set path, so the cut is straighter, smoother and more consistent than one made by hand. It also takes the strain and the heat off the operator and gives repeatable results across many cuts, which means less grinding and rework on the edges.
Hand cutting is still quick for one-off, rough or awkward cuts. But when you need long straight edges, bevels, repeated accurate cuts in plate, or clean square cuts on pipe, a machine gives a much better and more consistent result.
What do I need to run a gas cutting machine?
You need the machine and its track, a cutting torch that suits the machine, nozzles, regulators for oxygen and fuel gas, hoses with flashback protection, and an electrical supply for the motor. Machines are made for different voltages, and on UK sites 110 V is common for safety, so choose the right one for where you work.
Check that the torch fits the machine's holder and that the machine can carry its weight and the pull of the hoses. If you are unsure about compatibility, check the data plate and manual for your own machine and torch.
How do I set the travel speed?
Speed depends on the thickness of the steel, the fuel gas and the nozzle, so start from the nozzle maker's cutting chart and adjust from there with a test cut on scrap. Thin plate is cut faster than thick.
If you go too fast, the cut lags behind the torch, leaves drag lines and may not cut through. If you go too slow, the cut widens, the top edge melts and slag builds up. The right speed gives a clean edge with fine, even drag lines and slag that falls away easily.
What safety precautions apply when machine cutting?
Machine cutting still gives off sparks, molten slag, intense heat, light and fume. Wear eye protection with the right filter, gloves, flame-resistant clothing and sturdy boots, and keep the area clear of anything flammable. Fit flashback arrestors, follow the safety procedures for gas cylinders and hoses, and keep a fire extinguisher close.
Although the machine moves by itself, stay with it while it is running and be ready to shut off the gases if it jams or the flame goes out. Keep cables out of the path of hot slag and use a residual current device on mains-powered equipment where your risk assessment requires. Ventilate well or use extraction when cutting galvanised or coated steel.