43049002 - Arcair Slice Uncoated Exothermic Cutting Rods 1/4x22 (25-Pack)

Technical Overview of Arcair Slice Uncoated Cutting Rods

The Arcair 43049002 Slice Exothermic Cutting Rods represent a specialized consumable for the Slice cutting system, designed to tackle the most challenging material removal tasks in industrial environments. Unlike standard oxy-fuel or plasma cutting processes which rely on the conductivity or oxidation properties of the base metal, the Slice exothermic process utilizes a chemical reaction between the steel rod and a high-velocity oxygen stream. This reaction generates temperatures in excess of 10,000°F, allowing the operator to cut, burn, or pierce through virtually any substance, including mild steel, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, magnesium, and even non-metallic materials like concrete, brick, and slag.

This specific SKU features the "Plain" or uncoated configuration. While flux-coated rods are common for general use to prevent arcing against the side of the cut, these uncoated 1/4" x 22" rods are manufactured with a patented single-piece construction that maintains the critical balance necessary to sustain the exothermic reaction. The rod itself acts as the fuel for the fire, while the oxygen supplied through the center provides the oxidizer. Once ignited—typically via a 12-volt battery striker—the rod continues to burn without the need for constant electrical power, making it a highly portable solution for field repairs where heavy welding power sources may not be available.

The 22-inch length offers a significant advantage in terms of reach and safety, keeping the operator's hands further from the intense heat and spatter generated during the piercing process. The 1/4-inch diameter is the standard size for Slice torches, ensuring compatibility with existing equipment. These rods are essential for maintenance and repair operations (MRO) in sectors such as mining, bridge construction, and heavy equipment dismantling, where seized pins, layered composites, or concrete encasements prevent the use of traditional thermal cutting methods.

Engineered for reliability, the Arcair Slice rod consumes itself as it works, functioning similarly to a thermal lance but in a more manageable, handheld format. The absence of a flux coating on this model reduces the outer diameter slightly, which can be advantageous in tight clearance applications or specific underwater cutting scenarios where the coating might otherwise degrade or interfere. Each package contains 25 rods, ensuring sufficient supply for substantial cutting projects.