Question

Compare oxy-fuel, plasma and laser cutting with respect to maximum temperature reached, materials that can be cut, kerf width, and tolerances.

Answer 1

Oxy-fuel cutting

Maximum temperature = 2828°C to 3160°C

Materials that can be cut = Mild steels but not aluminium or stainless steel

Kerf width = broad as compared to other process

Tolerances = Low dimensional accuracy

Plasma cutting       

Maximum temperature = 20000 °C

Materials that can be cut = all electrically conductive materials, high-alloyed steel and aluminium

Kerf width = A little broader kerf compared to laser cutting

Tolerances = moderate as compared to laser cutting

Laser cutting

Maximum temperature = depends on workpiece materials

Materials that can be cut = ceramics and all metals (excluding highly reflective metals)

Kerf width = Small kerf

Tolerances = High accuracy