What type of metals does oxyfuel cutting typically target?

Oxyfuel cutting is primarily designed for use with ferrous metals, which include materials like steel and cast iron. The process works by utilizing a mixture of oxygen and a fuel gas, usually acetylene, to produce a high-temperature flame. When this flame reaches the metal's ignition temperature, it starts an exothermic reaction with the iron in ferrous metals, allowing for effective cutting.

Ferrous metals are particularly suited for oxyfuel cutting due to their iron content, which reacts vigorously with oxygen, creating a molten metal that can be easily expelled from the cut area. This method quickly oxidizes the iron, leading to a clean cut, which is crucial in various welding and fabrication applications.

The other materials listed, such as aluminum, titanium, and plastic composites, do not respond as efficiently to oxyfuel cutting. For instance, aluminum can create considerable oxidation issues and requires specialized processes. Titanium has a high affinity for oxygen, leading to contamination and brittle metal if cut with an oxyfuel torch. Plastic composites are not metals at all and therefore cannot be cut effectively with this method. Finally, while copper and brass can be cut using oxyfuel processes, they do require specific techniques due to their unique properties and are not the primary targets of this cutting method