Swordfish stakes its claim to safer cutting

Speciality Welds is launching its new Swordfish, an arc-cutting electrode that is said to be a safer alternative to oxy-fuel cutting.

Speciality Welds is launching its new Swordfish, an arc-cutting electrode.

This is a brand new, high iron-oxide manual metal arc (MMA) electrode, originally developed for underwater use, that provides a very effective means of cutting above water, particularly for on-site working, at a lower cost than oxy-acetylene.

The oil company Shell has conducted a rigorous set of trials to evaluate the dangers of underwater cutting and it has now been shown that the Swordfish offers significant safety benefits over conventional oxy-fuel cutting methods.

This report is available to download from the Speciality Welds website.

The electrode provides a very clean and precise cut; while at the same time remaining easy to use.

No special equipment is required, just a standard 400-amp DC welding power source.

The 5.0mm electrode can be used in all positions and it will cut a wide range of materials, including: steel, stainless steel, cast-iron, nickel-bronze, copper alloys, and aluminium and its alloys.

This electrode will replace the need to carry and transport oxy-acetylene and/or propane and therefore, offers advantages for health and safety as well as being more cost-effective and easier to use.

It is capable of cutting the aforementioned materials up to and including 40mm wall thickness, allowing it to be used for a wide range of fabrication, erection, snagging and general engineering works.

Using the Swordfish means no more oxygen or acetylene bills, and no more lifting, carrying or transporting of heavy cylinders.

There is also no need for any high-pressure gauges, hoses or even cutting torches, just a box of electrodes, a standard welding set-up and appropriate safety clothing.

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