If you’ve ever faced the challenge of cutting through massive steel sections, reinforced concrete, or removing a seized pin that simply won’t budge, you’ll know how quickly standard tools reach their limits. In the world of heavy industry, mining, demolition, and plant maintenance, thermic lances are the heavy hitters — delivering cutting temperatures up to 4,000°C and capable of slicing through almost any material.
What is a Thermic Lance?
A thermic lance, sometimes called a thermal lance, is a cutting tool that uses high-pressure oxygen to burn a steel tube packed with alloy steel rods. When ignited with an oxy-fuel torch, the steel combusts in the oxygen stream, creating an exothermic reaction that produces extreme heat. This molten jet blasts through metal, rock, or concrete, carrying away material as slag. The process is not limited by material thickness, making it ideal for oversized, reinforced, or difficult-to-access jobs.
When to Use a Thermic Lance
Thermic lances are used when traditional cutting or removal methods are too slow, too risky, or simply ineffective. They’re invaluable in high-stakes situations where downtime costs thousands of dollars per hour, or when you’re dealing with materials that resist conventional tools. Whether it’s precision pin removal, cutting steel beams, or dismantling reinforced structures, the thermic lance gives operators with a level of power and flexibility unmatched by most other cutting methods.
Real-World Applications
Removing Seized Pins in Heavy Machinery
In mining and construction equipment, pins in excavators, loaders, or dump trucks can seize solid after years of hard service. Corrosion, abrasive dust, and the immense pressures involved can make them immovable. Mechanical presses often can’t generate enough force, and oxy-cutting risks damaging the pin housing.
With the Cigweld Supre Lance Mini Kit, operators can insert a 6mm, 7mm or 10mm lance directly into the pin and burn through it with precision. Running at around 250 kPa oxygen pressure for the mini setup, the lance melts through steel rapidly while minimising heat transfer to surrounding components. The 7mm lance option is particularly effective here, allowing controlled removal without damaging bearings or bores — cutting the job from hours to minutes.
Demolition of Reinforced Concrete Structures
In industrial demolition, reinforced concrete can be a nightmare. The embedded rebar resists mechanical breakers, and cutting it with traditional torches is slow and awkward.
A thermic lance burns through both concrete and steel reinforcement in a single operation. By piercing at an angle, operators can quickly weaken structural sections for controlled demolition, reducing the time heavy machinery spends on site.
Cutting Oversized Steel Sections in Scrap and Salvage
Shipbreaking yards, rail maintenance depots, and steel recycling plants regularly deal with sections far too thick for standard oxy-fuel cutting.
The Supre Lance Mini Kit’s ability to handle up to 4,000°C cutting temperatures means even massive beams or castings can be sectioned quickly, without multiple pre-heating cycles.
Foundry and Steel Mill Maintenance
When molten metal solidifies inside furnace tap holes or runners, production stops until the blockage is cleared. Mechanical removal is slow and can damage the refractory lining.
Using a thermic lance, maintenance crews can burn through the solidified metal quickly, restoring flow and reducing downtime without dismantling large sections of the plant.
Emergency Rescue Operations
In disaster recovery or emergency access situations, heavy steel barriers, containers, or collapsed structures can block rescue teams.
A thermic lance can cut access points through thick steel in minutes, allowing emergency crews to reach trapped personnel or equipment far faster than with mechanical cutting tools.
Why Professionals Prefer the Cigweld Supre Lance Mini Kit
Unique 7mm Lance Option
Most kits only provide 6mm and 10mm lances. CIGWELD’s 7mm option offers the perfect balance — enough speed for efficient cutting while maintaining precision for sensitive jobs like pin removal.
Portable, All-in-One Design
The rugged carry case holds the handle, lances, PPE, oxygen hose, and safety accessories, making it easy to transport directly to the job site — whether it’s a mine pit, ship deck, or demolition zone.
Built-In Safety Features
Supplied with gloves, mask, and spatter shield, along with rubber seals and leak-test capability, the kit ensures operators can meet PPE and safety compliance immediately.
Backed by a Trusted Brand
With CIGWELD/ESAB’s nationwide service and consumable network, replacement lances, parts, and technical support are always accessible. This reduces downtime and keeps crews operational.
Engineered for Reliability
Handles and nozzles are precision-made to withstand repeated high-temperature cycles without warping or losing performance, giving crews confidence in demanding conditions.
Final Word
The Cigweld Supre Lance Mini Kit is not just a tool — it’s a critical solution for industries where heavy-duty cutting and precision removal are essential. From freeing seized machinery parts to taking down reinforced structures, its combination of portability, safety, and raw cutting power makes it an indispensable asset for professional operators.
