Pierce a workpiece
The hand torch can pierce interior features on metal. The type of pierce that you do relates to the thickness of the workpiece and the pierce capacity of the system.
- Straight pierce
- Use a straight pierce to cut a workpiece that is thinner than 8 mm (5/16 inch). If a straight pierce does not pierce the workpiece, try a rolling pierce.
- Rolling pierce
- Use a rolling pierce to cut a workpiece that is 8 mm (5/16 inch) or thicker, or if a straight pierce does not pierce the workpiece.
| Warning | |
|---|---|
 | SPARKS AND HOT METAL CAN INJURE EYES AND BURN SKIN
When you fire the torch at an angle, sparks and hot metal will spray
out from the torch tip.
Point the torch away from yourself and others. Always put on correct
protective equipment including gloves and eye protection.
|
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Hold the torch at the correct angle to the workpiece.
Option Description Straight pierce Hold the torch perpendicular (90°) to the workpiece. Rolling pierce Hold the torch at an approximate 30° angle to the workpiece with the torch tip touching the workpiece before firing the torch. 
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Start to pierce.
Option Description Straight pierce Pull the torch trigger to start the arc. Rolling pierce Pull the torch trigger to start the arc while still at an angle to the workpiece, then move the torch up to the perpendicular (90°) position. 
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Hold the torch in position while continuing to pull the trigger.
When sparks are coming from below the workpiece, the arc has pierced the material.
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When the pierce is complete, drag the torch tip lightly across the workpiece to
continue with the cut.
