Heat affected zone (HAZ) after thermal cutting of QT-steels
Zone 1 and 2
The peak temperature of the material at certain distances from the cut edge is depicted in the graph below.
Peak temperature from the cut edge
The outermost part of the HAZ, situated approximately 1-2 mm (0.039-0.079 inches) from the cut edge, experiences temperatures exceeding 900°C (482°F) during the cutting process. As the cutting torch progresses, heat rapidly disperses into the plate, causing Zone 1 to cool so rapidly that it undergoes re-quenching.
Consequently, the hardness and strength of this zone are higher than in other parts of the HAZ and the unaffected parent metal. Zone 2, positioned between Zone 1 and the unaffected parent material, is heated to temperatures below 900°C (1,652°F) during cutting. The material in Zone 2 undergoes tempering due to the heat generated during cutting operations. Hardness values in this zone vary depending on the steel grade and the efficiency of the cutting process.
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