Plasma Cutters
Typically used to cut steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper and other conductive metals, a plasma cutter blows compressed oxygen, air, inert or other gases (depending on the metal being cut) through a focused nozzle at high speed toward the metal, forming an electrical arc within the gas between an electrode near the gas nozzle and the metal itself. This electrical arc ionizes some of the gas to create an electrically-conductive channel of plasma. As electricity from the cutter torch travels down this plasma, it delivers enough heat to melt through the metal as the high velocity plasma and compressed gas blow the hot molten metal away, separating (cutting through) the metal.
Plasma Cutting Tips for Small Welding Shops
Light industrial CNC plasma cutting options now make it possible for small home-based businesses and hobbyists to complete amazing jobs that were almost impossible a decade ago. These new plasma cutting systems can provide great performance at even better prices, but make sure they fit your needs before getting started so that you aren’t disappointed.
Light industrial CNC plasma cutting options now make it possible for small home-based businesses and hobbyists to complete amazing jobs that were almost impossible a decade ago. These new plasma cutting systems can provide great performance at even better prices, but make sure they fit your needs before getting started so that you aren’t disappointed.
Watch out for artificially low prices on aftermarket plasma torch consumable parts. Before you buy, it is important to be aware of a few of the poor performance issues and risk of torch damage that your shop will experience if you purchase imitation consumables.
My previous experience with plasma cutting happened 30 years ago and was so awful that I never wanted to use one again. I vowed then and there to never use plasma again. Then I used one of the new units from Hypertherm.
Buying a CNC plasma cutting machine is not as easy as running down to the hardware store and picking one up. Take time to answer these questions to make your buying decision easier and save you considerable time and expense.
The switch to plasma wasn’t exactly planned, but more welders are now realizing the benefits of gouging with plasma.
Koike Aronson’s multifunctional IK-12 NEXT is capable of plasma and oxy-fuel cutting as well as general welding and pendulum weave welding. Even inexperienced operators can achieve consistent high-quality results.
Thermal Dynamics Automation’s new QuickPierce function speeds the piercing time on 400-amp cutting systems. Their cost calculator demonstrates long-range savings you can realize, thanks to improvements that extend the life of 400-amp consumables.
Strong Hand Tools’ Gas Grabber enables one person to safely and easily lift a heavy gas canister onto the company’s wheeled cart. Plasma cutting tray attaches to the Rhino Cart for greater versatility in mobile or stationary cutting, welding, and fabrication.
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