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SLICE EXOTHERMIC CUTTING EQUIPMENT
89250840
SECTION 6: OPERATION
SLICE Exothermic Cutting uses heat from a chemical reaction between a consumable steel rod and
oxygen flowing through the rod. Test data show that little or no oxygen remains. The oxygen not
used in the reaction blows the molten material out of the cut area. This action creates the kerf that
allows cut progression.
6.01 Cutting without Power
Cutting without power uses the heat reaction from the rod and the oxygen to cut. To initiate this type
of cutting, ignite the rod from a spark supplied by a 12-volt battery or by a welding power source
capable of delivering a 100-amp surge. Once this spark has ignited the rod, the electrical path is
broken and the heat of the reaction melts the material and cuts it.
Battery
+
-
SLICE Torch
Striker
Oxygen Supply
A
rt# A
-13639
Figure 4: Cutting without Power
Cutting without power can be done in remote areas. Support equipment and bulky power sources
are not needed.
1. Connect the torch to either terminal of a 12-volt battery or constant-current welding power
source, then connect the striker or a strike plate to the other terminal. If using a welding
power source, set output level for 100 amps.
2. Turn ON the oxygen supply and adjust the regulator to the proper working pressure. Insert
the cutting rod into the collet and tighten the Collet Nut.
3. Tap the cutting rod on a hard, ungrounded surface to seat the rod in the torch.
4. Depress the torch oxygen valve lever and check for oxygen leaks around the Collet Nut.
