← Glossary

Drag line

Drag lines are visible grooves on the cut surface of a thermally separated part that form due to delayed melt expulsion. They indicate the optimal travel speed.

Physical-Chemical Mechanism

Drag lines occur when the molten material in the cut zone doesn't expel fast enough and solidifies into grooves. This is especially common with long cutting times or low travel speeds.

Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks

Drag lines can affect the material structure and lead to cracks if they are too severe. They also slow down the expulsion process and increase stresses in the cut zone.

Workshop Practice & Procedures

To minimize drag lines, aim for an optimal travel speed of 0.3 to 0.5 mm/hour. Keep the temperature constant and avoid rapid temperature changes. For heavy materials, the speed may be lower.

MetallurgieSchweißtechnik

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