How to Cut Steel With an ARC Welder

Cutting with an arc welder requires a special type of stick electrode.

Arc welders generally use amperage to ignite a stick electrode and weld together multiple pieces of metal. A standard stick electrode has a metal core surrounded by a solid flux. Another type of stick electrode contains magnesium that increases the heat generated by the welding arc. When used correctly, a magnesium rod will burn through steel without attaching additional hardware to the arc welder. This eliminates the need to purchase expensive equipment during the cutting process.

Things You'll Need

• Arc welder
• Magnesium cutting rod
• Fire extinguisher
• Welding hood
• Heavy leather gloves

Instructions

1. Turn on an arc welder. Adjust the amperage knob to the setting specified on a magnesium cutting rod container. The amperage will vary depending on the thickness of the cutting rod and the thickness of the steel you are cutting.

2. Secure a magnesium cutting rod in the electrode holder, which is attached to the arc welder. Connect the ground clamp -- running from the welder -- to the steel.

3. Remove all combustible materials from the area surrounding the cutting area. Set a fire extinguisher next to the arc welder.

4. Put on a welding hood and heavy leather gloves.

5. Place the end of the magnesium cutting rod 1/4-inch off the surface of the steel. Lower your welding hood. Touch the end of the cutting rod to the surface of the steel. Lift the rod 3/16-inch off the steel to light the rod. Drag the lit rod along the steel to cut it at the desired location.

6. Allow the steel to cool for 30 to 45 minutes before handling it.

Tips & Warnings

• Remain in the area for 30 minutes after completing the cut to ensure that no hot metal ignites a fire.

• Avoid injuries by keeping unprotected people away from the cutting area.

References

• Zena Incorporated: SUPER BLAST Cutting / Gouging Rods
• "Welder's Handbook: A Guide to Plasma Cutting, Oxyacetylene, ARC, MIG and TIG"; Richard Finch; 2007