Q&A Oficial: VEX V5 Robotics Competition 2026-2027: Override

A teammember is wondering how plasma cutters are considered when referencing rule R27.

R27 states that, “Metallurgical modifications that change fundamental material properties, such as heat treating or melting, are not permitted.” and if plasma cutting works by melting metal, “As the gas passes through the electric arc, the energy rapidly heats it, causing ionization. This transforms the gas into a high-velocity stream of plasma, which can reach temperatures exceeding 20,000 degrees Celsius (36,000°F). This jet is directed toward the metal workpiece, melting the material almost instantly at the point of contact.” while also causing a heat affected zone, “The heat affected zone (or simply HAZ) is something that occurs when metal is subject to high temperatures,” at the same time, then is plasma cutting illegal based on rule R27?<R27> Sources: VEX rules, content.vexrobotics.com/docs/2026-2027/override/files/override-v1.1.pdf Plasma melting and heat source, engineerfix.com/how-does-a-plasma-cutter-work-the-science-explained/ HAZ source, fractory.com/heat-affected-zone-causes-effects-reduction/