What do the oxides produced during the oxyfuel cutting process mix with?

During the oxyfuel cutting process, the extreme heat generated by the combustion of oxygen and fuel gas leads to the oxidation of metals, resulting in the formation of oxides. When cutting ferrous metals, such as steel or iron, these oxides mix primarily with molten iron. This occurs because the cutting process involves a high-temperature reaction that melts the base metal along with the oxidation byproducts. The oxides can then blend into the molten iron pool created during the cutting process.

This interaction is particularly important for understanding how the chemistry of cutting affects the quality of the cut and the surface characteristics of the material being worked on. If the oxides produced are not adequately removed or managed, they can lead to defects in the final product.