Plate Burning

Steel plate burning is a fabrication process frequently used for cutting or burning metals such as steel. The technique, also referred to as plate cutting, utilizes an electrical arc or flame to ignite a liquid or gas and generate accurate cuts through metal with great efficiency.

At Infra-Metals Co., we leverage our extensive background in metal distribution and processing to deliver turnkey structural steel solutions for clients nationwide. Steel plate burning is one of our core competencies. Read on to learn more about the plate burning methods available, process benefits for your project, and common applications.

Plate Burning Techniques

Our team offers two types of Steel plate burning for our customers’ orders.

Plasma Burning

Plasma burning is a medium heat-input process that occurs when a plasma torch releases a high-speed stream of gas, utilizing an electrical current to transform some of that gas into plasma. Piercing the metal, the plasma can cut through higher- and lower-alloy steels alike with exceptional speed. The process can cause hardening in the heat-affected zone (HAZ).

Oxy-Fuel Cutting

Not as fast as plasma burning, oxy-fuel cutting employs pure oxygen and fuel gas to generate cuts in plate steel and other materials. This thermal cutting method utilizes an oxy-fuel cutting torch that, when directed at the metal, can heat the steel’s edge or surface to around 1800 ºF. The torch applies a fine, highly pressurized stream of oxygen at a consistent speed to the steel, which then oxidizes, blowing away and leaving a cavity in its place. With high heat input, oxy-fuel cutting can result in both hardening and carbonizing in the HAZ area.

Advantages of Steel Plate Burning

Steel plate burning allows us to cut plates, pipes, tubes, hollow structural sections (HSS), and more with the following advantages:

• Precision cutting capabilities, creating standard and uniquely shaped parts
• Little risk of metal distortion
• Great cutting versatility, with options for piercing and beveling
• Enhanced operational efficiency
• Higher return on your investment (ROI)
• Lower labor and long-term production costs
• Reduced downtime

Plate Burning Applications

As discussed, the plasma cutting method of plate burning has proven effective for both high- and lower-alloy steels. In general, plate burning is a highly versatile process that’s suitable for a vast range of industries and applications. Common examples include:

• Agriculture. Farming machinery and trailer frames are two examples of steel plate burning’s possible agricultural applications.
• Construction. Everything from elevator and staircase components to structural steel beams is compatible with steel plate burning processes.
• Energy. Wind turbines, solar panels, power transmission towers, and more utilize steel plate-burned parts in their construction.
• Oil and gas. Storage tanks, drilling rigs, and semi-submersible or fixed platforms rely on processes like plate burning for production.
• Shipbuilding. Steel plate burning can efficiently generate marine products like gunwales, bulkheads, and ship hulls.

Infra-Metals’ Plate Burning Services

As one of the country’s largest structural steel service providers, Infra-Metals offers a vast range of top-quality materials and capabilities. We distribute a range of structural steels to clients across the nation, with an unwavering commitment to prompt, economical, high-quality product and service solutions.

In addition to plate burning, we also offer cutting, drilling, blasting, painting, and more to be your one-stop-shop provider. Our goal is to streamline your procurement and processing operations, maintaining a comprehensive structural steel inventory and delivering ready-to-use materials for your convenience.

Request a quote today to learn more about Infra-Metals’ plate burning capabilities and other service options. We look forward to hearing from you.