Plasma cutters produce high heat, allowing you to cut through various materials of almost any size and thickness. If you need to use a plasma cutter for the first time, you’re probably wondering about its heating abilities.
It is understandable to be a little nervous when thinking about plasma cutting, but rest assured that once you know more about this cutter and how to use it safely, you won’t have any issues in your work environment.
How Hot Is a Plasma Cutter?
A plasma cutter is extremely hot. It can create a flame up to 45,000 Fahrenheit and 25,000 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for cutting sturdy materials and metals quickly and efficiently. However, it also means that the flame is so hot and bright that you should wear protective equipment to preserve your eyes and vision.
If you compare a plasma cutter to an oxy-fuel flame, you will learn that the flame is 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit or five times cooler than the plasma cutter.
Due to its high heat, you must be very careful when extinguishing the flame. Once you finish cutting the material, you should extinguish the flame to prevent damage.
How Does a Plasma Cutter Work?
Now that you know how hot a plasma cutter gets, you should know more about its abilities. A plasma cutter is one of the most efficient cutting machines on the market. With plasma cutting, electric current and thermal energy combine, allowing you to create narrow and precise cuts.
The process begins by converting pressurized gas into plasma and directing it left to right and up and down across the material. Then, when cutting, inert gas or compressed air moves at high speed from the torch’s nozzle to the metal you cut, impacting it with increased force.
How to Safely Use a Hot Plasma Cutter?
Here are a few tips to help you use a hot plasma cutter safely like a pro:
- Regular maintenance: Like other tools, plasma cutters require regular maintenance, which is essential for safety. Faulty parts and generators can pose safety risks for users, so you should always ensure the device is in good working condition.
- Work in ventilated areas: Plasma cutters generate various types of gases when cutting, making it vital to use them in areas where the gases can circulate and escape before they accumulate to unsafe levels.
- Wear protective clothing and goggles: When using a hot plasma cutter, it is essential to wear a heat-resistant and non-flammable jacket and protective goggles. Wearing adequate clothing will prevent injuries and skin irritation.
Get High-Quality CNC Plasma Cutters
If you are looking for a premium quality plasma cutter, Cyrious Metal Works can provide a turn-key product to make your fabrication project faster and easier.
With meticulous attention to detail, commitment to quality, and top-of-the-line technology, you can expect superior cutters at Cyrious Metal Works. Contact us today at (903) 364-6100 to learn more about our products, place your order, or get answers to your questions.