What is produced when pure oxygen is mixed with fuel gases?

When pure oxygen is mixed with fuel gases, a high-temperature flame for cutting is produced. This is because the combustion process between the pure oxygen and the fuel gas, such as acetylene, creates a flame with significantly elevated temperatures. This high-temperature flame is essential for oxyfuel cutting, as it allows the operator to effectively melt and oxidize the metal being cut.

The heat generated by this flame not only enables the cutting of a variety of metals but also provides the necessary energy to maintain the cutting process. The ability to adjust the flame’s temperature by varying the ratio of oxygen to fuel gas further enhances the versatility and effectiveness of the cutting operation. Thus, the combination of pure oxygen and fuel gases is a critical element in achieving the high temperatures necessary for efficient metal cutting in oxyfuel applications.