With multiple ways to cut steel, it’s important to find the best equipment to match your specific work requirements. Whether it’s for a DIY home project, commercial fabrication or hobby, choosing the right ‘steel cutting’ solution will ensure you complete the task at hand efficiently.
Let’s look at 5 different options and the associated advantages/disadvantages with each one.
OXY CUTTER
The traditional oxy cutter machine is a versatile metal cutting tool that is capable of cutting through a range of steel materials. If you’re in two minds about whether the Plasma Cutter or Oxy Cutter is the better choice, the oxy cutter is a standout for it’s precision and ability to cut through thicker plate steel.
Using a combination of oxygen and fuel to cut metals, the oxy cutting torch is capable of delivering superior reliability and speed across a variety of applications. In addition to cutting, it can also weld, solder, heat, braze and gouge.
Advantages:
- Produces an accurate & clean finish
- No power source required
- Cuts through thick steel
Disadvantages:
- Only cuts through steel such as ferrous metals
- Preheating is needed prior to operation
- Takes longer to set up
Plasma Cutter
A Plasma Cutter is next level brilliant! When it comes to cutting steel sheets and flat materials, you won’t find anything better.
If your project requires cutting different shapes and creating smoother edges, the plasma machine delivers seamless metal cutting results. It’s easy to use, reliable and flexible - allowing you to create a range of different cuts and positions you want without too much fuss.
Advantages:
- Comes with a range of implements & attachments for the perfect cut
- Delivers a range of flexible cuts that other steel cutting methods can’t match
- Cuts through both ferrous & non-ferrous metals including stainless steel, aluminium, bronze & copper.
Disadvantages:
- More costly to purchase & operate compared to other cutters
- The air compressor mechanism & machine needs a power source
- Plasma Cutters have a pre-determined thickness set by the machine
Circular Saw
If you’re undertaking DIY home projects such as cutting through mild steel, don’t overlook the humble circular saw. Although it may not be the first ‘go to’ choice for many people, if the correct blades are used, you can achieve excellent metal cutting results with it.
Even a reciprocating saw can work wonders when doing general home improvements. If you don’t have access to more expensive ‘metal cutting machinery’, manual saws can be ideal for cutting through smaller items such as rods, pipes and bolts.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective metal cutting tool for smaller DIY home improvements
- Capable of cutting materials including steel, metal, aluminium, pipes & conduits
- It’s maneuverability makes it easy to use making it ideal for quick & detailed work
Disadvantages:
- It’s manual handling requires extra strength when using it
- Takes extra time to complete various cutting tasks
- May require more skill to use compared to traditional machinery
Abrasive blades
Abrasive blades can be used on a variety of machines including the chop saw and die-grinder. If you need a reliable piece of equipment that cuts steel with straight angles, the chop saw is a great option.
A die-grinder and angle grinder also works considerably well for smaller metal projects and is beneficial when working in tighter spaces – particularly because of its portability. Whether you choose to implement a diamond encrusted diamond blade or abrasive disk clutter, you will find it incredible easy to use as a steel-cutting tool.
Advantages:
- Proper use reduces downtime & increases productivity
- Lasts longer than conventional blades
- Capable of fast cutting due to its high blade speed
Disadvantages:
- Abrasive blades can be loud & messy to work with
- Blades wear out easily & need regular replacement
- The depth of cutting can diminish when only half the blade is used
Bandsaw
A bandsaw is a toothed steel blade that operates over two band wheels. It is considered one of the safest steel cutting machines on the market today. Because the blade cuts in a downward and sloped direction, it substantially reduces the risk of injury when in operation.
It’s also designed to create faster and more precise cuts, especially when cutting through thicker steel material. The thin blade allows greater control over the saw, making it a pleasure to use and work with. You can also adjust the blade sizes to suit different cuts and finishes for your project needs.
Advantages:
- Precise cutting for the best finish possible
- A safe option for most cutting procedures
- Produces a straighter cut on a curve
Disadvantages:
- Limited to the size pieces you are cutting
- Can cause potential injury if not used properly
- Blade can move from left to right when in operation
Depending on what type of steel you’re cutting, there are pro’s and con’s to every method.
At Spectrum Laser, we offer a complete steel cutting solutions in Melbourne including laser cutting, pressing and specialized surface finishing.
We can also offer tapping, counter sinking, welding, powder coating and electroplating to complete your one-stop project requirements.
Please call our team on (03) 9763 5700 for more information.