What does "piercing" refer to in the context of oxyfuel cutting?

In the context of oxyfuel cutting, "piercing" specifically refers to the method of creating an initial hole in the metal before continuing with the cutting process. This is often necessary when cutting thick materials, as the initial pierce allows the cutting torch to create a controlled path for the flame to move through the material. The piercing process is crucial because it ensures that the cut is started accurately and effectively, reducing the risk of misalignment and ensuring a cleaner cut overall.

This initial hole is where the flame is introduced to the metal surface, and from there, the operator can manipulate the torch to guide the cut along the desired line or pattern. Understanding this step is fundamental in oxyfuel cutting, as proper piercing technique can significantly influence the quality and efficiency of the cutting operation.