Finishing plasma-cut sheet metal
Plasma-cut parts often come off the table with slag on the bottom edge, plus burrs and an oxide layer. Do them in order: slag first, then burrs and edge rounding, then oxide, then finish.
Order of work
| Step | Problem | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slag on the bottom edge | Slag removal brush, start at Hardness 1 |
| 2 | Burrs and sharp edges | Deburring disc |
| 3 | Oxide and heat tint | Oxide brush or oxide wheel |
| 4 | Final surface | Non-woven disc or belt |
Why order matters
Clearing slag first lets each later step work on the edge itself instead of leftover dross.
What we need to recommend tools
Your machine and brand, tool size and connection, the material and thickness, how stuck-on the slag is, and what the part does next.
Common questions
Which tool removes slag from plasma-cut parts?
A slag removal brush with steel pins. Most jobs start at Hardness 1; step up for heavy slag.
Do plasma-cut parts need oxide removal?
Often yes, especially before welding, paint or powder coat. See our oxide guide.
Can I do everything in one pass?
Sometimes, but plasma edges usually need more than one step. Tell us your machine and parts and we will suggest a sequence.
Related: Deburring discs · Slag removal brushes · Oxide brushes and wheels · Non-woven discs and belts · Stainless steel · Aluminum · Carbon steel · Glossary · All guides