Plasma Cut Rusty Metal?

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My new plasma cutter should be delivered before next weekend (yeah Ebay!) and I'm wondering about cutting rusted metal.   The first project on the list is a compost bin system that will require cutting lengthwise, some 2 x 3 x 1/8" wall steel box tube to make "C" channels.    The outside of the steel is rusted but to too badly, however I'm not sure what the inside looks like.  Will the cut be affected if I hit a section of heavy rust in the inside? I know I'll have to clean a section for the ground clamp, but will I have to clean an area to get the arc started too?What about cutting heavily rusted steel?    I also have an idea that will require cutting on 2 x 6 x 1/8" wall tube that looks like it was stored at the bottom of the Atlantic.There are no small projects
Reply:My plasma will cut right through rust and paint.  Occasionally, when paint is thick, I might have to make a bare spot, but that's about it.  The ground clamp needs a good contact, though.  I have cut pitted and rusted burned out trailer frames with only a bit of fuss.  Probably the hardest thing is keeping a steady hand on an uneven rusted surface.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Just a little info ; Once on a submarine superstructure i had to cut, ( W.W.2   pig boat ) - it was almost to the point of no steel, just layers of thick rust . A cutting torch (oxy-acetylene) would NOT cut it , a plasma did . very rough, to be sure.
Reply:One thing to keep in mind the box tube will probably spring open a little when one sice is opened up.DennisThermal Arc 185-TSWMillermatic Challenger 172VictorO/AAtlas Craftsman 12 by 24 LatheEsab PCM-875Wholesalem Tool Mill-Drill
Reply:Originally Posted by Tailshaft56One thing to keep in mind the box tube will probably spring open a little when one sice is opened up.
Reply:keep us updated on how it performs.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Originally Posted by smithboykeep us updated on how it performs.