Got new plasma cutter - need to cut straight

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Hey guysI got a new Hypertherm Powermax 45.  Great machine.I wanted to cut a straight strip of 2"  by 4 feet from a sheet of 4 x 8 feet 14 gauge steel.  I used a perfectly straight ruler.  The cut strip's edge came out slightly curved (outwards).  The base sheet edge that was cut is still straight like the ruler.   Is there tension in the steel or is there a technique I should be aware of?Thanks for your help.
Reply:Are you moving the tip as you cutSIN CITY METAL WORKSvisit my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/devvon
Reply:Using a straightedge really helps on things like that. I just take a piece of 1" or 2" angle and clamp it to the sheet metal on each end, and then drag the tip against the angle. It works really well, good luck PS, I hope you enjoy your 45', I got one too recently and love it. Here it is in action:[Account Abandoned 8/8/16 Please Do Not Attempt Contact Or Expect A Reply]. See you on YouTube! -ChuckE2009
Reply:I would say since you are only heating the one edge of the 2" strip as you are cutting it that when it does cool it does not shrink back.Miller Diversion 180Lincoln Mig Pak 5000 HDHypertherm 45Uni-Spotter Stud WelderOxy Set-up with Harris TorchMiller 30FX Arc StationMiller Elite - Hockey Canada Helmet
Reply:Thanks for the responses guys.I am using a straight edge ruler  and I only moving it along the straight edge.  Only the 2" strip edge is curved outwards.  The big sheet's edge is straight like the ruler I used.
Reply:As far as I can make out, most if not all hand held plasma cutters do not give a perfectly square  edge on both sides of the kerf,I have not had my Powermax 45 too long and still experimenting, I'm sure our more experienced members will enlighten us soon,Correct Power settings and travel speed will help.Lincoln SP-170 MigHypertherm powermax 45Lorch T220 AC/DC TigButters FM 215 synergic MigKemppi 180 adaptive mig RULES ARE FOR THE OBEDIENCE OF FOOLS AND THE  GUIDANCE OF WISE MEN.
Reply:Originally Posted by Tundra08I would say since you are only heating the one edge of the 2" strip as you are cutting it that when it does cool it does not shrink back.
Reply:Always clamp your straight edge to the big piece.  If you clamp it to the strip then it will move as the strip warps.  Cutting thin strips will always result in some warpage due to heat.  I've found it a whole lot easier to just buy strips the width I need.My name's not Jim....
Reply:Here is a trick I use to cut long narrow strips of metal so it don't worp to bad.#1 Lay your stright edge and clamp it down#2 make sure your tip is in good shape#3 Take a tape on lets say 48" peice mark 12" 24" 36"#4 turn on your cutter, put on your cutting gear#5 Come in about 3/4" from the edge set your tip on the metal start your cut#6 Cut till you get to the 12" line then stop, move 1/2" and cut again to the next mark and so on on the last cut stop about 1/2" from the end#7 Go back and cut the 12" then the 24" and the 36" then the two endsThis will help keep the strip a lot strighter.www.georgesplasmacuttershop.comPlasma Cutter and Welder Sales and Repairs--Ebay storeTec.Mo. Dealer Consumables for the PT and IPT torch's