How CNC Oxyfuel Cutting Works: Step-by-Step Process Explained

Key Takeaways

• CNC oxyfuel cutting employs oxygen gas and fuel gas to cut thick steel materials.
• This involves preheating, piercing, and continuous cutting.
• It is best used in heavy industrial steel fabrication projects.

CNC oxyfuel cutting is an operation that involves heating and cutting of thick steel with high accuracy using oxygen and fuel gas. The CNC system is used to control the movement of the torch automatically. Most CNC oxy fuel cutting machine manufacturers have constructed the machines to provide precise, clean, and economical cutting to the heavy industries. However, CNC oxyfuel cutting is usually preferred by industries that require cutting thick carbon steel plates, as it is reliable, powerful, and economical.

What is CNC oxyfuel cutting?

CNC oxyfuel cutting is a thermal cutting process. It uses:

• A fuel gas (such as acetylene or propane)
• Pure oxygen
• A cutting torch controlled by a CNC system

First, the fuel gas flame heats the surface of the steel to a high temperature. Then high-pressure oxygen is released. The oxygen reacts with the heated metal, creating a chemical reaction that causes the metal to burn and be removed in a controlled manner.

The CNC system controls:

• Torch movement
• Cutting path
• Speed
• Height

As a result, the machine can automatically cut complex shapes with high accuracy.

Companies such as Best Techno Dynamics assist industries in selecting the appropriate CNC oxyfuel solutions based on material thickness and production requirements, ensuring improved performance and longer machine life.

Why is oxyfuel used for thick steel?

Applications of oxyfuel cutting include:

• Mild steel
• Low-alloy steel
• Thick metal plates

However, it cannot be used for stainless steel or aluminum.

The reason is simple:

• Oxyfuel cutting depends on oxidation.
• Oxygen reacts effectively with carbon steel.
• This reaction produces additional heat.
• The heat sustains the cutting process.

Oxyfuel cutting is slower compared to plasma cutting. However, for plates thicker than 25 mm, it becomes more cost-effective. Therefore, industries involved in heavy fabrication prefer this technique.

Furthermore, many industries working with a reputable CNC machine manufacturer in Vadodara choose oxyfuel cutting systems for structural steel projects and heavy equipment production.

How does the CNC oxyfuel process work?

Here is the simple working process of CNC oxyfuel cutting:

CNC oxyfuel cutting operates in three major phases:

• Preheating
• Piercing
• Cutting

Each stage is important. If any step is not performed correctly, the quality of the cut can decrease.

The CNC controller ensures that all steps are executed accurately according to the programmed design.

Step-by-step cutting process explained

Step 1: Design Preparation

It begins with a digital design.

A drawing is drawn by the operator with the help of CAD software.

Machine code is generated out of the design.

This code is read by the CNC controller.

Therefore, the torch is aware of where to move. This automation eliminates manual errors and enhances repeat accuracy.

Step 2: Material Setup

The steel plate is then put on the cutting table.

• The surface should be clean.
• The plate must be flat.
• It is necessary to align properly.

Moreover, gas supply lines are inspected to maintain the right amount of pressure. A steady arrangement provides an improved quality of cutting.

Step 3: Preheating the Metal

The real cutting has now commenced.

• The oxygen and fuel gas are combined at the torch.
• The steel is heated by a flame.
• The temperature increases to approximately 800-900°C.

At this point, the metal does not melt. It only reaches ignition temperature. The reason behind this step is that the oxidation reaction requires high heat to initiate.

Step 4: Piercing the Plate

After preheating:

• High-pressure oxygen is discharged.
• Hot steel is reacted with oxygen.
• A chemical reaction begins.
• The metal burns and creates slag.

Additionally, this process leaves a hole in the plate. This is called piercing. The cut is normally pierced at the point of inception.

Step 5: Continuous Cutting

Once piercing is complete:

The CNC system causes the torch to move along the programmed path.

• The steel is continuously oxidized.
• The cut is blown off molten slag.

The movement must be steady. In case the speed is excessive, the cut will not be finished. Excess slag will be produced in case it is too slow. However, proper speed settings are of great significance.

Most CNC cutting machine manufacturers in India are working on making the motion control systems more efficient in producing a smoother cutting edge.

Step 6: Slag Removal

During cutting:

• Under the plate, molten metal is formed.
• Oxygen pressure is used to remove this material.
• The waste is collected on the cutting table.

Minor cleaning can be done after cutting. Nevertheless, the current CNC systems minimize the formation of excess slag.

Key components of the machine

CNC oxyfuel cutting has a few key components that you should be familiar with in order to know how it functions.

Component	Function
CNC Controller	Controls movement and cutting path
Cutting Torch	Delivers flame and oxygen
Gas Supply System	Provides fuel gas and oxygen
Cutting Table	Holds metal plate
Height Control System	Maintains correct torch distance

Each part works together. Therefore, the quality of machines has a direct influence on cutting accuracy.

Furthermore, trustworthy CNC machine dealers in Vadodara normally suggest machines equipped with advanced height control systems to enhance edge quality.

Where is CNC oxyfuel cutting used?

CNC oxyfuel cutting finds extensive application in:

• Fabrication of structural steel
• Shipbuilding
• Bridge construction
• Heavy machinery production
• Manufacturing of industrial equipment

Moreover, it is ideal for:

• Thick steel plates
• Large-format cutting
• Cost-sensitive projects

Industries are also supported by companies such as Best Techno Dynamics, which offer tailor-made CNC cutting solutions depending on production volume and material thickness.

Advantages of CNC oxyfuel cutting

Here are the main benefits:

• Cost-effective for thick steel
• Low operating cost
• Simple maintenance
• Suitable for heavy plates
• Long torch life

Plasma cutting is quicker when working with thin sheets, but oxyfuel is more economical for heavier materials. Thus, it is favored by many heavy industries.

Additionally, CNC automation increases:

• Accuracy
• Repeatability
• Productivity

Best Techno Dynamics ensures proper machine setup and operator training to maximize productivity while maintaining safety.

Conclusion

CNC oxyfuel cutting is an effective and cost-efficient tool of cutting heavy carbon steel in a precise way. The CNC system controls every step in the design programming to final slag removal to achieve accuracy and efficiency. CNC oxy-fuel cutting machine manufacturers have earned the trust of many industries that have come to rely on them to provide dependable machines that enhance productivity.

Moreover, under the professional advice of Best Techno Dynamics, companies will be able to choose the appropriate cutting solution for their requirements and obtain the same, high-quality outcomes in any project.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What metals can CNC oxyfuel cut?

  It primarily cuts low-alloy steel plates and mild steel.

• Is CNC oxyfuel better than plasma?

  Oxyfuel is cheaper in the case of thick steel.

• Does CNC oxyfuel require skilled operators?

  Yes, basic training is needed, but CNC reduces manual effort.