Heavy Steel Cutting Up to 3 Inches Thick
When plasma won't reach, NESF's CNC flame cutting table handles the job, up to 3 inch steel on a 60×120 table. Built for structural steel, heavy plate, and industrial fabrication.
When to Use Flame Cutting
CNC flame cutting is the process of choice for heavy steel plate, material over 1 inch thick that plasma cannot handle. It is commonly used for structural bases, large flanges, heavy gussets, and industrial components where thickness is the primary constraint.
NESF operates both plasma and flame cutting tables, so we can handle the full range of steel thicknesses under one roof. Projects that require a mix of thin and thick components, common in structural fabrication, can be cut, formed, and welded entirely in our shop.
Flame Cutting Equipment & Specs
Table Size
60" × 120"
Capacity
Up to 3" steel
Best For
Heavy structural plate
Plasma vs. Flame: Which is Right for Your Part?
Use Plasma When:
- Material is 1 inch or under
- Tight tolerances are required
- Clean edges are important
- Aluminum or stainless steel
Use Flame When:
- Material is over 1 inch thick
- Heavy structural steel plate
- Carbon/mild steel only
- Large format, high-thickness work
CNC Flame Cutting Questions
How thick can NESF's flame cutting table cut?
Our CNC flame cutting table handles steel up to 3 inches thick, significantly more than plasma's 1 inch limit. This makes it the right choice for heavy plate, structural steel, and industrial fabrication projects.
When should I use flame cutting instead of plasma?
Flame cutting is better suited for steel over 1 inch thick, where plasma capacity is exceeded or where the heat-affected zone characteristics of flame cutting are acceptable. For thinner material with tight tolerances, plasma is typically preferred.
Does flame cutting leave a rough edge?
Flame cut edges are somewhat rougher than plasma, but are suitable for most structural and industrial applications. For parts requiring a clean finish, we can grind or machine the edge after cutting.
What is the table size for flame cutting?
Our flame cutting table is 60 inches × 120 inches, the same footprint as our plasma table. Very large parts can sometimes be cut in sections and welded.
Can NESF flame cut from a drawing or file?
Yes. We accept DXF files and can work from drawings, dimensions, or sample parts. Include your file or describe your project in a quote request.
Need Heavy Plate Cut?
Tell us your thickness, material, quantity, and dimensions. We'll review the project and provide a quote.