A Thermal rod is a type of multi-purpose tool used by terrans in construction and asteroid mining. Basically an advanced/compact plasma torch, thermal rods are used to cut through metal sheets, bars and doors depending on the situation (Aliens: ME3 Hand Welder). The rods can also be used as emergency flares in certain situations such as being lost in outer space. Each rod can last for 8-10 minutes on constant burn. Countless space miners have been rescued through the use of these rods. Because of this, all mining corporations make it standard for SCVs to have at least 3 thermal rods to complement their fusion cutters.