title = "Oxy-Fuel Cutting: Setup and Technique"

content = """
Oxy-fuel cutting (OFC), commonly called burning or flame cutting, uses a flame to preheat steel to the ignition temperature and then a high-velocity jet of pure oxygen to oxidize (burn) the metal, blowing the molten iron oxide from the kerf. Oxy-fuel cutting is specific to ferrous metals—it relies on the exothermic reaction of iron with oxygen, which does not occur with aluminum, stainless steel, or non-ferrous metals.

The oxy-fuel torch has two gas circuits: fuel gas (acetylene, propane, natural gas, or MAPP gas) mixed with oxygen provides the preheat flame; a separate pure oxygen cutting jet is activated by a cutting lever or valve once the base metal reaches ignition temperature (approximately 1800°F / 980°C for steel). The cutting jet oxidizes a narrow column of steel; the combustion heat sustains the reaction, allowing the cut to continue as the torch moves.

Acetylene provides the hottest and fastest-heating preheat flame (neutral flame temperature approximately 5620°F / 3100°C) and is the traditional choice for hand cutting and beveling. Propane and natural gas heat more slowly but are less expensive; they are used with multi-flame (rosebud) tips for preheating and with mechanized cutting machines. Proper flame adjustment is critical: a neutral flame (equal oxygen-fuel ratio) is used for most cutting; a slightly oxidizing flame prevents torch backfire. A carburizing (excess fuel) flame deposits carbon on the metal and is not used for cutting.

CNC oxy-fuel cutting tables cut thick steel plate economically—plate up to 12 inches and more can be cut, far beyond the practical range of plasma. However, the heat-affected zone is significantly larger than plasma or laser cutting, and edge squareness is limited. Bevel cutting heads cut groove preparations for welding.

Cylinder handling and storage safety is paramount. Oxygen and fuel gas cylinders must be stored separately (minimum 20 feet or fire barrier). Cylinders must be chained upright at all times. Regulators must be matched to the gas (never use a fuel regulator on an oxygen cylinder). Flash arrestors must be installed at both the regulator and torch connections to prevent backfire from propagating to the cylinders. Before lighting, check hoses for damage and connections for leaks with soapy water.
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version = "0.0.1"
