Flame machining is a little-used variation of the oxyfuel gas cutting process. This technique is used to turn down the diameter of a piece of cylindrical stock similar to machining on a lathe. The cutting oxygen stream impinges on the work (a cylindrical piece) at an acute angle, almost tangentially. The oxygen cutting orifices used are the expanding low-stream velocity type, with a comparatively large-diameter exit. Relatively low oxygen pressures are used. The cut is not permitted to penetrate through the work, as in severing, but is restricted to removal of material from the surface.
This change in the angle of impingement of the cutting oxygen stream has created a variety of oxyacetylene cutting operations. Because of the similarity to customary tool machining, these operations are collectively termed flame machining. See OXYFUEL GAS CUTTING.
