[DeTomaso] Stainless steel question- Plasma Cutting Torch Method

[Chris Difani]

One method that I've used with good success has been my plasma torch. I've 
been able to cut both autenistic as well as martenistic stainless alloys. 
Both 318 and 304 alloys, to be more precise.

One thing that I have noticed is that the capacity for cutting stainless 
versus mild steel is about 70%, as a general rule of thumb. If I can cut 
inch thick mild steel, I can usually cut 3/4" stainless plate. The speed is 
slower with stainless, and you have to be very careful to maintain the jet. 
In terms of comparison, I can cut 2" aluminum plate with the same settings 
that it takes to cut 3/4" stainless. That stainless is pretty tough stuff.

Cutting with blades (bandsaws, jig saws, etc..), using a spray can of any 
lubricant is a big help. Spraying WD-40 is better than dry cutting. And if 
you have a metal cutting bandsaw with some kind of liquid lubrication 
(flood, mist, or drip), using soluble oil in the water mix is a reasonable 
alternative to doing it "dry".

And as always, your milage may vary....

Chris

Chris Difani
'73 L #5829 "LITNNG"
Sacramento, CA
Email: cdifani at pacbell.net





----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Paul A. Rimov" <rimov at charter.net>
To: <DeTomaso at realbig.com>
Sent: Thursday, February 22, 2007 6:04 PM
Subject: [DeTomaso] Stainless steel question


> So whats up with stainless steel, I just tried to cut some stainless steel 
> pieces with my trusty acetylene cutting torch and nothing. All it did was 
> turn red. Tried the same setting on some mild steel of the same thickness 
> and it cut right through it.
>
>
> Paul
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