Oxygen lance cutting: what is an oxygen lance and how does it work?

Oxygen lance cutting is performed using a long tube through which oxygen is passed. First, the working end of the lance is heated using another heat source, such as a welding torch, to a temperature of 1350-14000°C. When the lance ignites, the torch is removed and oxygen is supplied, resulting in the working end heating to 20,000°C. To increase the heat output, a steel rod or profile is typically inserted into the tube. Then, the cutting process itself is performed using the oxygen lance, pressing it against the surface of the metal being burned.

After the lance is inserted into the cutting material, the oxygen pressure is increased to a certain level, allowing for piercing. During the process, a reciprocating motion of 10-20 cm and a rotating motion at an angle of 10-150° are performed. This allows the cutting oxygen to do the work and prevents it from sticking to the cutting metal. Slag is removed by pressure through the resulting hole.

Oxygen lance cutting creates a circular hole with a diameter of 30-90 mm, depending on the lance diameter and rotational motion. This cutting can be performed in almost any position, and the lance used is a simple 10.15 mm water pipe with a 4.5 mm diameter wire inserted inside.
Oxygen lance cutting of cast iron is used in metallurgical production, but the cutting productivity is quite low. To burn a hole with a diameter of 50-60 mm, the speed will not exceed 50 mm/min, and the oxygen consumption is approximately 35 m3 per 1 m of hole.

Where is oxygen lance cutting used?

Oxy-lance cutting can be used on materials such as concrete and reinforced concrete. This requires applying a pressure of 300-500N, taking into account the resistance of slags, which, unlike metals, do not oxidize or generate heat. In this case, the back-and-forth motion will be much less. Sometimes, when cutting with an oxygen lance, iron powder is added along with the oxygen. Under these conditions, even separation cutting of steel and concrete is possible. It is crucial to observe safety precautions during the cutting process, as hot spatter and aerosols are always emitted, which can easily burn through clothing.

The oxygen lance cutting method is used when high-precision work quality is not required, and also when it is impossible to use any other working method or it is not economically viable.