What methods are available for cutting steel and what is the corresponding range of utility for each?
The following methods are commonly used to cut steel: • Friction sawing, which is performed with a high-speed rotary blade, is commonly used by steel producers and is limited only by machine size. This cutting method, however, is no longer commonly used in fabrication shops. • Cold sawing, whether by rotary saw, hack saw, or band saw, is limited only by machine size. • Oxygen-acetylene (and related fuel) flame cutting, which can be mechanically or hand-guided, is commonly used for general cutting and edge preparation operations, such as coping, beveling, notching, etc.; its utility is virtually unlimited. • Plasma cutting, which is mechanically guided, is generally useful for cutting plate of up to 3/4-in. thickness. • Laser cutting, which is mechanically guided, is generally useful for cutting plate; thickness limitations vary. • Shearing, which is performed with mechanical presses, is generally useful for cutting plates and angles and is limited only by machine size and capacity. Add
