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SLICE EXOTHERMIC CUTTING EQUIPMENT
7.02 Amperage
Electrical current increases the heat from the reaction in exothermic cutting, allowing faster cutting.
200 amps yields the most efficient cutting rates with power. When cutting with power and using less
than 200 amps, the amount of cut per minute will be lower. Amperage above 200 amps consumes
the rod faster, reducing the cut per inch of rod burned. Exothermic cutting equipment uses around
200 amps. Exceeding this amperage could cause equipment damage.
When cutting without power, current from the battery ignites the rod. To ignite the rod a surge of
at least 100 amps is needed. If the battery has not been properly charged it will not have enough
amperage to ignite the cutting rod.
7.03 Travel Speed
The cutting rod burns constantly without an electrical arc. Therefore, cut as fast as possible without
losing the cut kerf. If the travel speed is too fast, the material will not cut completely through and
molten slag will be blown back from the workpiece.
7.04 Electrode-To-Work Angle
The electrode-to-work angle is the most flexible process variable. However, use of an improper angle
can cause reduced cutting efficiency. For most cutting jobs the ideal angle is between 45° and 80°.
For thicker material, hold the rod closer to an 80° angle. The electrode-to-work angle is typically a
drag angle - the rod is held so the tip of the burning rod is away from the direction of travel. Cutting
sheet metal is one exception since it is usually faster and better controlled when the user keeps a
45° angle or slightly less, and pushes the rod in the direction of cut. Aluminum, regardless of its
thickness, requires a 70° to 80° drag angle.
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