Cutting Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most popular materials in modern-day manufacturing. From consumer electronics devices to heavy-duty industrial machinery, it finds a wide range of applications. Its strength, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and cost-effectiveness make it popular. To be able to use it, though, first you have to cut it.
There are several cutting methods for stainless steel. The most common are sawing, shearing, laser cutting and water jet cutting.
Sawing involves using a thin abrasive blade to cut stainless steel sheets, tubes and rods. It is best for thicker material since it can be imprecise, especially for thin material.
Shearing is generally used for thinner materials. It is a cold method for cutting stainless steel sheets in one pass. Hydraulic shears are a common tool for this.
Laser cutting is more precise than sawing or shearing and can also create more intricate shapes. The laser beam is focused on the material and melts or vaporizes it away. Laser cutting is often used to cut thin sheets, pipes and rods.
Water jet cutting is another method used for thinner materials. A high-pressure water stream is used to cut thin-gauge stainless steel. It is not very precise, but still capable of producing complex shapes.
When cutting stainless steel, it is important to ensure that the material is in good condition before starting. Any rust or corrosion can damage the cut edge. It is also important to use sharp cutting tools, as blunt ones will strain the motor or blade, increase cutting time and create an imprecise cut.
When cutting stainless steel, the correct cutting speed should be used to get the best results. The cutting speed should depend on the type of cutting tool and the material itself.
In some cases, it is also important to use coolants or lubricants to reduce the temperature of the cutting area and help reduce wear on the tools. There are several water-soluble and synthetic liquids available for this.
It is also important to carefully monitor the cutting process and make sure that no changes occur over time. Sudden changes in temperature or speed can ruin the cutting job.
With the right tools and safety protocols, cutting stainless steel is a relatively simple process. Just make sure to always use sharp cutting tools, check the material before starting, use the right cutting speed, and monitor the process closely. That way, you can be sure of getting clean and precise results.