What type of metal can be effectively cut with an oxy-acetylene cutting torch?

The ability to effectively cut metal using an oxy-acetylene cutting torch primarily relies on the combustion properties of the oxy-fuel gases involved, particularly acetylene, which produces a high-temperature flame. Ferrous metals, such as steel and iron, can be heated to their ignition points, allowing for oxides to form, which can be further oxidized and blown away by the oxygen stream from the torch. This process leads to efficient cutting.

Oxy-acetylene cutting is generally tailored for ferrous metals because they have a high melting point and are suitable candidates for the oxidation process when heated by the torch's flame. The technique allows for clean, controlled cuts, which is vital in metal fabrication industries.

While other metals like brass and aluminum can be cut with different torch techniques or adjustments to the method, they are not typically associated with the standard use of oxy-acetylene cutting due to their different melting and boiling points, as well as the nature of their oxides. Non-ferrous metals do not oxidize in the same way, making them less effective for cutting with an oxy-acetylene torch under standard conditions.