During an inspection of a completed cut made with oxyfuel cutting equipment, the drag lines should be near which orientation?

The proper orientation of the drag lines in a completed cut made with oxyfuel cutting equipment is typically near vertical. This orientation indicates that the cut was made correctly, with minimal disturbance to the metal profile. When the cutting torch moves through the material, it creates a specific pattern—the drag lines—that reflect the direction and speed of the cutting process.

When the drag lines are vertical, it suggests that the operator maintained a consistent speed and angle during the cutting, allowing for an even and clean cut. This is important in both ensuring the structural integrity of the piece being cut and in making further fabrication or assembly processes easier. A vertical line indicates that the molten metal was blown away from the cut effectively and that the torch was held steady, contributing to a more precise workpiece.

In contrast, if the drag lines were horizontal or curved, it could suggest issues with the cutting technique, such as variations in speed or a wobbly motion of the torch, leading to a less clean cut. Diagonal lines might indicate inconsistent cutting angles or varying pressures applied during the cutting process. Thus, vertical drag lines are the desired outcome, confirming proper technique and a quality cut.