Plasma is an electrically conducting, ionized plasma created by adding energy to an electrically neutral gas. The source of energy is compressed air. To generate plasma gas, both elements are combined in a chamber between an electrode and a nozzle. The plasma gas is driven into the nozzle, resulting in an electrically conductive flow. As more energy is delivered into the plasma cutter, the plasma arc heats up, increasing cutting capacity and efficiency.
Handheld plasma cutters can cut through up to an inch of metal with ease. Power and compressed air are required for plasma. These are factors to consider while developing a portable application; yet, plasma machines’ smaller size and weight make them more portable than in the past. Meanwhile, electrical power is not a concern because engine-powered welders/generators are widely available on many construction sites.
Read on to discover why you should invest in a plasma cutter to cut metal.
The Effectiveness of a Plasma Cutter
Plasma cutters are highly developed, widely utilized, efficient, and adaptable tools for quickly cutting heavy and thick materials.
Steel, stainless steel, and aluminum are sliced with a plasma torch. Simply enough, compressed air is blasted from a nozzle as an electrical arc melts the metal. For cutting, it outperforms an oxygen-acetylene torch.
What You Can Get from Plasma Cutting
Plasma cutting can:
- cut a wide range of metals, including non-ferrous metals like aluminum, stainless steel, and cast iron, which are increasingly being employed in a variety of applications.
- be used on a variety of metals. Steel, iron, copper, brass, aluminum, stainless steel, and other conductive metals are cut using an electric arc.
- penetrate in less than two seconds. Less time spent means money saved for the end-user.
- produce smoother, lower kerf cuts than oxy-fuel cutters.
- cut precisely, particularly when cutting sheet metal into different shapes or angles.
- cut faster, generate less waste, and cause fewer worker injuries.
- cut thinner metals faster than oxy-fuel, with little to no metal distortion.
When comparing the cutting speed of a plasma cutter to that of other cutting devices, the plasma cutter comes out on top since it saves time and is much easier to use. Other cutting equipment takes four times as long as a plasma cutter. This device does not require any preheating. When cutting, it saves time.
Plasma cutting is faster and more exact than other technologies for cutting angles, channels, and tubes. These systems are simpler to use and require less cleaning than oxy-fuel systems. Additionally, plasma systems do not require the storage or use of flammable or combustible gasses or an open flame.
The Main Function of a Plasma Cutter
While it may be true that a plasma cutter is initially more expensive than an oxy-fuel system, know that this is only a one-time investment. Again, it saves time and waste in the long run. On the other hand, plasma cutters do not require continuous gas purchases, whereas oxy-fuel torches do.
For this option, you must determine the most commonly cut metals and the thickest metals to be cut. Plasma systems are the most precise way to cut stainless steel and aluminum.
Conclusion
A plasma cutter may be intimidating to many, from business owners to employees and staff. However, it must be understood that this sophisticated technology could be better for business and work. Thus, don’t hesitate to look into your plasma cutter options! Try it out and see the difference.
Are you looking for affordable plasma tables? Cyrious Metal Works offers prime commercial plasma cutting systems for your business. Give us a call today to learn more about our products!