1030 – 01 – Cutting Processes – Basic Cutting Operations

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Cutting is an age-old process. It involves slicing small chips away from a whole in one specific location in order to separate one part of that whole from another. Metal goes through cutting processes on its way to becoming a finished part. These processes involve a variety of different implements: tools, machines, and techniques that facilitate fast, accurate cutting.

In general, manufacturers prefer to use cutting to alternative processing options because it is so accurate. It also makes it simple to craft parts that other manufacturing processes could never accomplish. Furthermore, cutting also functions well in bulk, helping manufacturers to reduce their costs and operate more efficiently.

Cutting processes aren’t perfect, though. It creates metal waste, for example. Mistakes in the cutting process can result in scrap. In both cases, these waste products should be recycled.