cutting question

[oldskoolron]

had this alloy outboard pod sitting around for few months so was thinking bout cutting it up and using the alloy for whatever jobs I want .I have a32amp plasma and have cut upto 3/8 thich steel .the pod is all 5/16 so I was thinking bout yseing the plasma
is there anythink different I need to know from cutting steel
cheers in advance

[Dr Stan]

In general it takes higher amperage to cut aluminum than steel, probably due to the aluminum oxide on the surface.  32 amps to cut through 5/16 aluminum sounds on the light side.

However I'd still give it a go even if it takes multiple passes.  I recommend using a wire wheel in an angle grinder to clean off the oxide where you plan to cut.

An alternative method would be to use a reciprocating saw to cut up the unit, or an aluminum blade in a circular saw.

[f350ca]

I'd give it a go. I don't cut a lot of aluminum, think the tables for the plasma table say slower feed rates than steel. The cut isn't as clean or smooth as steel but usable.

[oldskoolron]

thanks fellas im goin to give it a go during the week have to wet down the area as its very dry here in the bush atm