Oxyfuel and Plasma Cutting for Metal Fabricated Parts
In Focus
Laser-cutting certainly brings a wealth of benefits to the metal fabrication process. Yet they aren’t the only way to cut metal; flame cutting can offer an effective solution depending on the situation.
Why?
“It’s tough to beat flame cutting for efficiency when considering the expense,” explains Tim Cowden, General Manager at SFI Gray Steel. SFI is part of the Ryerson Family of Companies and specializes in flame-cutting carbon and alloy steel plate.
Plasma cutting and oxy-fuel cutting are often utilized for fabricated metal parts. Depending on the desired cut and tolerance, this method can present many benefits. This affordability can translate into competitive pricing and cost savings for customers utilizing flame-cutting services.
But the benefits don’t end there. Understanding the relative advantages of flame cutting is crucial in any buying decision, particularly when considering the in-house versus outsourcing opportunity for long-term growth partnerships.
Benefits of Flame Cutting
Flame cutting—also known as oxy-fuel or oxy-acetylene cutting—stands out among metal-cutting processes for its affordability compared to more novel processes. This is in addition to flame cutting’s versatility, which provides an effective solution no matter the thickness of the material.
“We’re able to cut anywhere from a quarter inch of thickness to 24 inches,” says Cowden. “There’s much variation in between, but at the end of the day, it’s a very clean cut when done right.”
"We’re able to cut anywhere from a quarter inch of thickness to 24 inches. There’s much variation in between, but at the end of the day, it’s a very clean cut when done right."
Tim Cowden
As one of the more long-standing metal cutting methods, flame cutting is relatively straightforward, making it accessible to operators with the proper training and experience. This creates a scalable solution defined by efficient turnaround times, able to handle a wide range of materials with shorter turnaround times.
Because of all these advantages and flame-cutting’s popularity as a solution, manufacturers may consider handling their flame-cutting operations in-house. In recent years, however, this solution has given way to a renewed emphasis on outsourcing to meet demand amid uncertainty.
Flame Cut Steel Suppliers
“Everything we have in our facility is geared toward flame-cutting—day in, day out. We don’t say we’re experts, but I’ll tell you: We’re darn good.”
There’s a great deal to remember with every cut, from size and thickness to the final product’s function and every step in between. Having the most knowledgeable flame-cutting experts isn’t just an advantage—it can make the difference between a quality cut and a costly redo.
Yet it’s not just getting it right on delivery that matters. Supply chain concerns that continue to hamper manufacturers across the globe have changed the calculus of metal fabrication—something that Cowden and his team have prepared for in-depth.
“Carrying inventory is expensive when you’re going it alone. Back cuts, errors—that’s all on you. Any scrap that you create is lost money," adds Cowden.
Indeed, inventory costs often must be noticed when manufacturers consider in-housing their flame cutting. Because the equipment is inexpensive, some decision-makers only consider the cost of hiring the operator. Once the inventory expenses hit the balance sheet, opportunity costs arise.
“All the investment you make in inventory is money you could be putting elsewhere,” explains Cowden. “Instead, you have all these dollars tied up in your flame-cutting inventory, and it can be difficult to know when you’ll profit amid uncertainty. Meanwhile, at SFI Gray, carrying inventory is part of what we do. We have it on hand to serve our clients when needed.”
Plasma and Oxyfuel Cutting Near Me
As part of the Ryerson team, SFI Gray provides access to the right parts and cutting solutions no matter the situation. With over 100 locations nationwide and an outside service provider network eclipsing 500, Ryerson can ensure continuity immediately and stabilize the metal manufacturing process.
“At the end of the day, we’re helping many different folks who have different goals they want to accomplish. Our team focuses on providing that flexibility so our clients can get more done with less.”
Less worry, less delay, and less uncertainty. By partnering with an accomplished leader in metal manufacturing, such as Ryerson, manufacturers ensure they get the best while cutting away the rest.
Let's discuss your metal fabrication needs.