Plz, anyone with metal fabrication experience; Could you look at this beam ?

Question

In your best opinion, could you tell me how this beam was "cut" ?

Click on the picture, for a close up look. Do not pay any attention to the story; But do pay special attention to the direction of the slag.
http://portland.indymedia.org/en/2006/06/341238.shtml

Also, if you would, could you tell me what experience you have working with metal ?

Thanks a bunch !

"Freddy D":
Does that procedure you desribed, make an explosive noise and a bright flash of light ?

Answer 1

I am an Ironworker of 20+ years..in N.Y.C was there 9-11-01that box beam was cut using an externally wrapped explosive like a detonation cord....the reason the slag fell outward is due to the rapid expansion rate of the gas pressure inside the box beam..slag was liquid as the pressure blew it out...sort of a shaped charge i would have to say

Answer 2

My guess is that the top was torched, then the sides at an angle to control the direction it fell (probably not required), then the bottom torched as the beam lay horizontal, or at a list, which would cause the slag on the front side of the beam to appear.

Answer 3

looks as if were cut from the inside cuz of the direction the slag is.but also with all the firefighters around that could be a joint where 2 pieces were welded together and the heat from the fire melted the steal to give it that illusion.

Answer 4

Looks melted to me, blew it up 400%. Although cut looks unusually clean. Thermate would not have left molten metal on one side. (interesting pic though ) I saved it and am going to look closer.