Metal-Cutting Machines and Supplies Key Terms

Learn metal-cutting machines and supplies key terms to maximize work output

By Christine Pollock

There are many facets and options when working with metal depending on job detail. Knowing and understanding metal-cutting machines and supplies key terms helps one determine which equipment and supplies are best for a specific job when working with metal.

When one uses metal-cutting machines and supplies key terms, it helps one communicate with others in the field. It demonstrates a sense of professionalism when you take the time to learn precise terminology.

Laser

The technology behind laser cutting uses computers to direct a high-powered laser at a metal. This process leaves high-quality surfaces on the cuts.
Try: Kern's Metal Cutting and Etching System offers laser metal cutting machines to businesses. In addition to specifying the types of metal it cuts through, the website also defines how the laser metal cutting tool works.

Lathe

A lathe is a machine tool that spins a metal or other material for cutting.
Try: Bixby Machine Tool Supply offers a selection of metal cutting tools, including a lathe. It shows an image of a lathe on its website.

Robotic cutting machine

This type of metal cutting machine cuts mechanical and artistic shapes from metal.
Try: MultiCam prides itself in its robotic cutting systems. It highlights the ways it makes the robotic cutting machine work with metal.

Plasma cutting

A plasma cutting machine cuts through metal of varying sizes using a plasma torch. The torch uses inert gas and blows it out of the nozzle at a high rate of speed. An arc forms through the gas from the nozzle, turning the gas to plasma. Due to its high heat, the plasma melts the metal and cuts it.
Try: PlasmaCAM offers information on a plasma cutting metal machine on its website. It also offers a brief video detailing the way the machine works.

Machine tool

This term refers to a powered mechanical device used to cut through metal.
Try: Lost Creek Machine offers pictures of machine tools by category.

Cold saw

Sometimes called a cold metal cutting saw, a cold saw uses a circle-shaped saw blade to cut and shape metal. The metal tends to get hot during this type of cutting.
Try: Metacafe offers a video showing a cold saw in action as it cuts through metal.