Short answer: Thermal cutting severs metal with heat rather than shear: oxy-fuel burns steel in a stream of oxygen (cheapest for thick carbon steel), plasma melts and blows the kerf with an argon/hydrogen arc (fast on most metals up to ~50 mm), and laser vaporises a precise edge (best for thin, intricate parts). Each leaves a heat-affected zone and dross that finishing steps must address; waterjet and sawing remain the cold alternatives when distortion or HAZ must be avoided.
At a Glance
Cut Methods Compared
Compare Metal Oxy Fuel Cutting Guide e Metal Laser Welding Guide; relate to Metal Band Saw Cutting Guide e Metal Shear Cutting Guide.
Qualità
Edge and HAZ checked per Metal Grain Size Guide, certified by Mill Test Certificate Guide. Inspect by Metal Ndt Guide.
Supply & QA
Control distortion via Metal Machinability Guide; protect via How To Prevent Metal Rust. HXSCO supplies cut-ready plate and bar.
Get a Quote
Tell HXSCO your requirements and we will respond with a competitive quote and lead time.
Domande frequenti
Cutting metal with oxy-fuel, plasma or laser heat.
Plasma is faster/thicker; laser is finer/lower distortion.
A heat-affected zone with changed properties near the cut.
When no heat, HAZ or distortion is allowed.
HXSCO supplies plate and bar cut to size for fabrication.
Source Cut-Ready Metal from HXSCO
HXSCO supplies steel, stainless and aluminium plate and bar cut to size for thermal or cold cutting. Send your grade and size for a quote.