What does the term "cut quality" refer to in oxyfuel cutting?

The term "cut quality" in oxyfuel cutting refers specifically to the smoothness and precision of the cut edge. High cut quality is characterized by a clean, smooth finish on the surface of the cut, with minimal roughness or deformities along the edges. Achieving good cut quality is essential in applications where the aesthetics, fit, or further processing of the cut pieces are important.

Several factors influence cut quality, including the oxygen pressure, the type of fuel gas used, the cutting speed, and the distance between the cutting flame and the material. A well-executed cut will typically exhibit a fine edge with little to no slag, whereas poor cut quality may result in excessive dross and an uneven cut surface.

While the thickness of the material, the speed of the cutting process, and the amount of oxide formed after cutting may affect the overall cutting operation, they do not define cut quality in itself. These aspects may influence the outcome but are not the primary indicators of how smooth or precise the edges of the cut are.