Abstract: What is presented is a combustible pellet for creating heated gas. The combustible pellet can be inserted into a cutting apparatus or a high power igniter or both. The combustible pellet is compacted to be resistant to mechanical damage, resistant to unintentional ignition, and free from a loose powdered form of combustible material when ignited in the cutting apparatus or the high power igniter. In certain instances, the combustible pellet is compacted to between 90 percent and 99 percent of its theoretical density. The combustible pellet may be capable of being transported separate from the cutting apparatus or the high power igniter or both. The combustible pellet may also be capable of being stored separate from the cutting apparatus or the high power igniter or both. The combustible pellet may comprise a circular cross-section and tubular length. The combustible pellet may comprise an axial hole.