Oxy-cutting advice please

Don't have one of these but have seen one used. Try to put some bar stock or something under one side of the cut line so as the cut proceeds gravity will help keep the two pieces apart. Maybe a little weight on the piece that is off the table? Doug

Try rotating the nozzle, not just lifting it up. It's almost like you are trying to create a groove in the steel rather than cut it. You always have to have the nozzle pointed in the direction of the cut so it does not work very well for sharp curves or really restricted access situations.

Mike

Try a sheet metal cutting nozzle. Rotty

The torch pressures sound right. You should select a double zero or even triple zero tip. The torch head should be pointing ahead as much as possible. If the torch could be tilted thirty degrees to the surface of the sheet that would be ideal. You want to throw the preheat forward. Don't use excessive preheat. You want enough preheat to burn the steel but not melt it. Too high a preheat will cause that re-welding effect. Go as fast as you can without losing your cut. In many cases you can do a better job with a steel bar guide , a small tip and a hand held torch pulled towards you as fast a possible. The tip of the torch should almost touch the plate with its side when tilted. Randy

Get a sheet cutting nozzle. Fits your standard torch, has a cut jet that points sideways. They're not much good on tight curves, but they're fine for straight.

Couldn't you just use some of those air powered snips and zip right down a straight edge?

rvb

When I have to cut steel less than 3mm thick, I found the most success by hand, using a guide bar. As Randy pointed out, you need to incline the torch in the direction of cut, flame pointing forward, 60 to 80 degrees from vertical. As well, you need to move as quick as possible, without losing the cut.