Cutting torch guide

In combination with a cutting torch, a device that is removably securable to a steel sheet for guiding said cutting torch in a circular path of desired radius to form a circular opening in said sheet, said device including:

• a. a ring shaped track;
• b. magnetic means for holding said track at a desired location on said sheet and in spaced relationship thereto;
• c. a frame assembly disposed within said track, said assembly including two parallel laterally spaced guides that on first ends thereof develop into two angularly positioned arms, said two arms on the free ends thereof developing into two first shafts disposed within said track, a tubular collar disposed between said guides and secured to the ends thereof opposite that from which said arms extend;
• d. a second shaft having an extension normally disposed thereto, said extension adjustably mounted in said collar;
• e. two first grooved rollers rotatably supported on said first shafts and a second grooved roller rotatably supported on said second shaft, said first and second rollers in engagement with the interior surface of said track;
• f. first means for selectively locking said second shaft extension at a desired position relative said collar to maintain said first and second grooved rollers in engagement with said track;
• g. a carriage slidably mounted on said guides;
• h. rotatable means on said carriage that may be engaged by said cutting torch;
• i. visual means for indicating the distance of said carriage supported rotatable means from the center of said track;
• j. second means for locking said carriage at a position determined by use of said visual means to rotate said carriage through a circular path relative to said track for said torch to cut an opening of desired radius in said sheet;
• and
• k. heat shield means situated between said second roller and carriage to protect said second roller and second shaft from heat from said cutting torch.