Home >> Hobbies >> Other Hobbies

How to Cut Galavanized Steel

Cutting galvanized steel is an extremely straightforward process, but you must take care to avoid experiencing metal fume fever. Galvanized steel is made by hot-dipping steel into a zinc solution, which covers the surfaces of the steel with a layer of zinc that protects it from rust, corrosion and oxidization. You run the risk of metal fume fever when combusting it --- usually with a cutting torch. You can avoid this serious concern by cutting galvanized steel with only bladed tools. To ensure your health and safety, wear a respirator and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area.

Things You'll Need

Respirator
Safety glasses
Fan
Tin snips
Angle grinder
Pipe cutter

Instructions

- 1
  Put on a respirator and eye protection. Direct a fan to blow any vapors off your work and out of your work area before you begin.
- 2
  Mark the line you wish to cut on the surface of the galvanized steel with a pencil. If cutting galvanized sheet metal, you can simply use a pair of tin snips to cut along the line. If cutting galvanized steel pipe, use a pipe cutter where possible by tightening the torquing screw tightly to the pipe and turning it around the pipe, continuously tightening it until you have completed the cut. In any other circumstances, use an angle grinder with a cutting wheel installed.
- 3
  Hold the angle grinder with both hands, and check to ensure you have sufficient room to maneuver yourself and the grinder along the planned cut line.
- 4
  Begin at one edge, and cut along the line. Move the grinder in a direction that allows the blade to cut into the metal while turning into it, spraying sparks away from you and not directly at you.
- 5
  Allow for the site of the cut to cool before handling the steel. Rotary cutters create a huge amount of heat, which will transfer to the steel itself.

Other Hobbies