Abstract: An edge trimmed piece that is cut from a long metal slab with a cutting torch carried along the slab edge is automatically crosscut into short manageable length pieces with a secondary crosscutting torch. Both torches are mounted on the same carriage and the crosscutting torch is periodically activated to move along an acute angular path with respect to the edge trim cut, resulting in an effective crosscut transverse to the main trim cut. The crosscutting operation may be carried out without interruption of the edge trim torch, thereby enhancing productivity and trim cut quality.

Abstract: A billet cutting apparatus of the type including an oxy-fuel cutting torch includes a slag removal nozzle operative simultaneously with the cutting torch to direct a jet of oxygen along the lower edge of the billet to remove slag beads tending to form thereon. The oxygen nozzle has a unique opening configuration which provides a thin, flat oxygen stream effective over a substantial distance, such that the nozzle can be mounted laterally of the billet and outside the hostile and potentially damaging environment created by the cutting torch and the hot billet. The nozzle may be conveniently mounted in a fixed position and, in an automated billet cutting apparatus, may be attached directly to one of the billet clamping arms.

Abstract: A cantilevered transverse arm is mounted for movement along both a longitudinal and transverse axis. The outer end of the arm is adapted to be disposed over a metal slab to be cut and carries a tool assembly which is adjustable thereon. A guiding assembly is fixedly mounted to the arm and includes a pair of longitudinally spaced guide rollers positioned so that the cutting tool is disposed in a transverse plane extending between the rollers. Each roller is individually shiftable into and out of engagement with the slab edge. Initially, the leading roller is advanced toward the slab edge, while the trailing roller is retracted. The rollers are then moved toward the slab edge until the leading roller engages the said edge ahead of the slab corner. As the entire device moves longitudinally along the slab, the leading roller is retracted while the trailing roller moves into engagement with the slab edge. Deformed slab corners are thereby bypassed by the tool guidance system.