Preparing for a welding project usually involves cutting metal into specific shapes and pieces, a task that requires many of the same tools and know-how used in welding. This video serves as a basic guide to two popular heat-based cutting methods: oxy-fuel and plasma. Beginning with an overview of safety procedures, the video shows how to set up an oxy-acetylene system and demonstrates correct coupling distance, travel speed, torch angle, machine finishing, and other aspects of handheld cutting. Additional fuel choices are listed, too. The plasma segment includes a basic definition of what plasma is and how it is able to cut. Viewers learn the fine points of setting up and cutting with a plasma system and are given numerous tips and guidelines, from one- and two-hand torch manipulation to troubleshooting various problems. Correlates to all National CTE Organizational Standards (including the provisions of the Perkins Act).

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on March 10, 2012. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Safe Cutting Environment and Protective Equipment (4:45) -- Oxy-Fuel Cutting Systems (3:22) -- Setting Up an Oxy-Acetylene System for Use (5:50) -- Cutting Metals with an Oxy-Acetylene System (5:12) -- Plasma Cutting Systems (2:19) -- Plasma Cutting System Set-Up and Procedure (1:48) -- Cutting Metals with a Plasma Cutting System (3:39) -- Credits: Oxy-fuel and Plasma Cutting (0:35).