Handbook-Manual Cutting

20 Cutting with Oxygen Lance and Torch By using a cutting torch and oxygen lance in combination, steel thicker than that which could be cut by the torch alone can be cut. The torch is used to start the cut into the steel, and the lance to complete the cut all the way through. This must be a two-man operation. It is possible to fabricate a suitable lance from standard pipe fittings, and then connect it to a high-capacity regulator, mounted on a portable cylinder manifold, with 3/8-in. or 1/2-in. oxygen hose. A lance valve factory-equipped with hose connection and a quick-acting chuck to hold the lance pipe can also be purchased ready to use. Fig. 21-17. Oxygen lance used in conjunction with cutting torch to remove 7-ton riser from 9-ton steel casting.