Cutting A572 Grade 50 isn't like slicing through mild steel. Get it wrong, and you'll end up with a heat-affected zone that's harder than intended—or worse, micro-cracks.
Plasma and laser? They work fine, but watch your speed. Too slow, and the heat builds up. This grade has a bit of carbon and manganese (that's what gives it strength), so localized hardening can happen. A light post-cut grind usually cleans things up.
Oxy-fuel cutting is still common for thicker plates—say, over ½ inch. Just don't rush the preheat. Even heat input keeps the cut clean and reduces the chance of hardening along the edge.
Shearing works for thinner material (under ⅝ inch), but remember: you're bending the steel right before it breaks. Leave a small grind allowance if the edge will see high stress later.
One universal rule: avoid water quenching a hot cut unless you purposely want a martensitic rim (you usually don't). Let it cool in still air.
Good cutting leaves a clean edge that welds easily and performs as expected. Rush it, and you'll be chasing problems downstream. Keep it simple, keep it steady.
