How to Use a Plasma Cutter
- Step 1: Choose Work Location ...
- Step 2: Plug in Unit ...
- Step 3: Connect the Air ...
- Step 4: Turn the Air On ...
- Step 5: Attach the Ground Clamp ...
- Step 6: Turn on the Machine ...
- Step 7: Set the Current ...
- Step 8: Cut the Metal ...
How to make money with a plasma cutter?
Know The Solid Ways To Make Money With A CNC Plasma Table
- Automobile Industry. The automobile industry is never complete without a plasma cutting machine. ...
- Hobbyists Pieces. You see there are many people who are successful for their own crafts design ideas and making millions of money.
- Construction/Industrial Site. ...
- Manufacturing Tasks. ...
Is it hard to use a plasma cutter?
Using a plasma cutter is easy. As long as you don’t forget about the safety gear and precautions, then you’re good to go. The plasma cutter will help you save time and money. Plus, you get to create a smooth cut on metal that clients will be pleased with.
What is plasma cutting and how can I use it?
Plasma cutting is a process that cuts through electrically conductive materials by means of an accelerated jet of hot plasma.Typical materials cut with a plasma torch include steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass and copper, although other conductive metals may be cut as well.Plasma cutting is often used in fabrication shops, automotive repair and restoration, industrial construction, and ...
How much air does a plasma cutter need?
To be precise, a plasma cutter’s air pressure requirements are about 4-8 SCFM at 90-120 PSI. This plasma cutter air pressure is the generalization for cutting the steel having thickness between 3/8 inches to 7/8 inches. The examples of some standard plasma cutter will assist you in setting the correct pressure for your system.
How does a plasma cutter work step by step?
0:021:23How Does a Plasma Cutter Work? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo how plasma cutting systems work is they utilize compressed air or compressed gases such asMoreSo how plasma cutting systems work is they utilize compressed air or compressed gases such as nitrogen to ionize to create plasma typically. These gases are fed through the back of the machine.
Is a plasma cutter easy to use?
Using a plasma cutter is very convenient and fairly easy. The benefit is that "freeform" cuts can be made to metal based on guiding the cutter. Since this machine works by directing plasma through the creation of a circuit, a ground clamp is necessary, much like welding.
Do you touch the metal when plasma cutting?
One is to prefer a pilot arc torch wherein you don't have to touch the metal with its tip and two, use a standoff guide for more effortless cutting while keeping a good distance between the nozzle of the torch and the metal work piece.
Do you push or pull a plasma cutter?
Tip 5: Use proper technique Note that most people find it easier to pull a torch toward their body rather than push it away. Holding a 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch standoff increases the cutting capacity of smaller machines and extends the consumables life.
What gas do you need for a plasma cutter?
Gas is needed for a plasma cutter in order for it to work and create the plasma. As mentioned, the most popular gases to use are oxygen, nitrogen or argon. Some plasma cutter systems include multi-gas features so a variety of gases can be used for different applications.
How close do you hold a plasma cutter?
The stand-off cutting technique is the process of holding the tip of the torch between 3 – 4mm from the work piece to achieve the optimum cut. Stand-off cutting requires a cutting tip that you need to ensure that the plasma cutters output amperage is matched to the amperage with the tip.
Do you drag the tip on a plasma cutter?
A drag tip is used on the end of your plasma cutter to cut through thin metals easily. Drag tips are great for cutting sheet metal, even at low amp rates. You can draw straight lines or follow patterns easily while dragging along the surface of your metal while having total control over how fast things move.
How do you clean cuts with a plasma cutter?
6:489:00Plasma Cutting Basics: How to Get Clean, Straight Cuts - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow i like to pull my torch towards me rather than pushing it away because i feel like i have betterMoreNow i like to pull my torch towards me rather than pushing it away because i feel like i have better. Control. As i drag the torch in this direction than i would if i was trying to push it around.
When should I change my plasma cutter tips?
1:565:06How and When to Change Out Plasma Cutting ConsumablesYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWithin your torch need to be replaced. You can also look at the consumables. Themselves to gaugeMoreWithin your torch need to be replaced. You can also look at the consumables. Themselves to gauge whether they are nearing the end of their life cycle.
How thick can plasma cutter cut?
Plasma cutters are used to perform cutting and gouging operations, with the average hand-held system capable of cutting a maximum metal thickness of about 1 inch.
How do you cut straight lines with plasma?
1:432:43How to cut a straight line with a plasma cutter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can use a good straightedge. That you can bend or like this aluminum one and then you just startMoreYou can use a good straightedge. That you can bend or like this aluminum one and then you just start your arc. And then drag that thing down the tip.
How much air pressure do you need for a plasma cutter?
To be precise, the air pressure required for a plasma cutter is about 4-8 SCFM at 90-120 PSI. This plasma cutter air pressure is a generalization for cutting steel between 3/8" and 7/8" thick.
Is plasma cutting difficult?
Q: Is plasma cutting difficult? A: No! An operator with minimal training may learn to use a plasma cutter in just a few minutes.
Do you need an air compressor to use a plasma cutter?
Can you use a plasma cutter without an air compressor? Plasma cutters typically come with an air compressor, but some units come without this component. Air compressors can help you cut more precisely. They can also make your plasma cutter portable for off-the-grid jobs.
Can I use a plasma cutter without air compressor?
Beyond choosing the right size air compressor for your plasma cutter, it is critical that you ensure the air that reaches your plasma cutter is high quality air. Without it, your parts will not look good and your consumables will not last long.
Is a plasma cutter better than a torch?
Plasma does not require the metal to be preheated before cutting, which saves time, and plasma cutters also outperform oxy-fuel torches when cutting stacked metals. Faster speeds can be achieved on thinner metals with plasma, with minimal or no metal distortion.
How to use Plasma Cutter in Detail?
Every plasma cutter is going to operate a bit differently. Consequently, it’s always best to consult your owners manual before starting. Some like the Lincoln plasma cutters will have built-in air and safety guards. While others will need shop air and have limited safety guards.
What is a Plasma Cutter?
You’ll not only have a deeper knowledge of the machine, but you’ll have a better idea of how to troubleshoot problems if and when they come up.
What is the difference between a plasma cutter and a multiprocess machine?
The major difference between a plasma cutter and a multi-process machine is this: the plasma cutter will have one function , cutting. The multi-process machine will have several functions, usually stick welding and TIG welding in addition to plasma cutting.
How many leads do you need for a plasma cutter?
For field use, you’ll want a machine with 15′ or 20’leads. This is so you can easily reach your work and still be able to hook up your air and electricity. You can also run a plasma cutter, or welder for that matter, off of a generator if there is no 110v power available.
How much does a plasma cutter cost?
There are many available in today’s market, and for under $800 you can get a good MP machine, a small consumables kit and a shop compressor to get you started.
What type of gas does a plasma cutter use?
Plasma cutters work off of different types of gas, they could use compressed air (like your shop compressor), argon or oxygen. In this article, we will stick to hand-held plasma cutters so the majority of these machines will run off of compressed air. Now, here is the cool part.
What to do if you have a curved cutting guide?
If you’re using a cutting guide you will want to have that lined up for a straight cut. If it’s a curved line, then have your magnetic guard set up.
What is plasma cutter?
A plasma cutter is a primary tool in many established metal workshops and fabrication shops. This machine looks very much like a high-temperature gas. It conducts electricity and will cut all electrically conducting metals. When electricity is fed into it with an 110v or 220v plug, it processes such electricity making it able to cut with great precision virtually any metal you can think of.
How does a plasma cutter work?
This is how a plasma cutter cuts large pieces of metal just like a chainsaw cuts a huge log within seconds. Even the best plasma cutter under 500 can deliver marvelous results.
What voltage do you use for a cutter?
Power hookup – To ensure your machine operates safely, ensure you use either a 110v or 220v power hookup, depending on your cutter.
What is a high definition plasma cutter?
High-definition precision plasma cutter – These are designed to create high-definition cuts and are ideal for industrial use. They use several gases, among them nitrogen, argon, and hydrogen. The precision arc ranges between 40 and 50-kilo amps per square inch.
How to use a drag shield?
But how do you use your drag shield? Simply place it at a 90-degree angle with the piece of metal that you intend to cut. This will help you to make accurate cuts with ease as you can easily follow the cut marks you have made. Some plasma cutters do not have drag shields but this should not worry you. If your cutter does not come with a drag shield simply hold your cutter half a centimeter from the metal but be sure to maintain a 90-degree angle when cutting.
What is the best grinder for metal?
Besides helping prevent the paint from catching fire, a grinder makes metal visibility better. Bosch Angle Grinder 1375A is regarded as one of the best grinders in the market thanks to its quality performance.
How hot does a plasma torch get?
The temperatures can reach 30,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of the intensity of the plasma, a localized area on a metal piece is melted by the jet. The pressure of the jet removes the molten metal as it cuts.
How to cut metal with plasma cutter?
Plug in your plasma cutter and plug in your air hose. Double check that your machine is receiving both power and air. Line up your body to the piece of metal so that you are furthest from the sparks, have a clear view of your cut and are safe from the piece of metal falling once its cut.
What is the best plasma cutter?
This a professional series machine made by a company that is known for durability, performance and great customer support. This machine is made for people who want to purchase the best fully featured machine in its class.
What are consumables in plasma cutters?
Consumables are parts of your plasma cutter’s torch that will wear out over time after performing numerous cuts. There are various types of consumables on your torch such as shields, deflectors, retaining caps, nozzles, electrodes, and swirl rings. Each one of these components has a different life span depending on how you use your machine. Luckily, manufactures sell consumable kits with all the parts you need in one convenient box. You simply pull apart the nozzle of your torch, replace the part that is worn out and get back to work. The disassembly is very simple. These consumable kits include a correct number of each part based on what tends to wear out the fastest. Typically these kits cost you around $125 and will keep the average weekend warrior up and running for about 8-14 months depending on how much they use their machine.
How to prevent blowback on plasma torch?
Position your plasma torch slightly off the piece of metal to prevent blowback if possible (this will not be possible if you are starting a cut in the middle of a piece of metal) Let the metal cool before you pick it up off the ground (small pieces of metal tend to be a lot hotter)
What is plasma cutting?
The plasma cutter is to metal working as the chainsaw is to cutting down trees. Sure you can use other tools to get the job done, but the plasma cutter just does it so much better.
How much does an air dryer cost for plasma cutting?
This will help increase the life of your machine and is recommended. These can usually be purchased for around $50. The Best Air Dryer For Plasma Cutting.
What to use to cut heavy metal?
Steel toe boots are also a strong recommendation if you will be cutting heavy sections of metal. You always want to be clear of where the metal will fall after you make your cut to prevent injury and burns. However, as with most tools sometimes other factors distract us from remembering this and accidents do happen. My steel toe boots have saved me a few times from situations like this.
What is a Plasma Cutter?
Plasma cutters are a great tool to have if you work in a field where you often have to deal with metal materials.
How does a plasma cutter work?
A plasma cutter easily cuts metals. It uses an electric arc through a gas-like air to create an ionized path through which the metal to be cut can be drawn.
How much do I need to Spend on a Plasma Cutter?
In the plasma cutter market, higher-priced brands translate to stronger machines that can get the job done for longer.
How many volts does a Spectrum 375 plasma cutter use?
The Spectrum® 375 X-TREME™ plasma cutters require either 120 or 240 volts of power.
What voltage do plasma cutters use?
One of the best qualities that plasma cutters have is that they can be powered by either 110 or 220 volta ges, allowing them to be set up pretty much anywhere and in any shop.
What gas is used for cutting metal?
If you’re cutting, gouging, or welding with air plasma, compressed air is probably one of the gases you’ll want to use because it has a good balance of cut and deposition for many types of metals (especially steel).
Can you flip a full face shield?
To avoid discomfort – especially that metal burning smell – it’s also a good idea to purchase a full-face shield that can also be flipped up when not being worked on.
How to use plasma cutter?
Use the trigger on the gun to activate the plasma cutter. Note the trigger has a safety that must be lifted before you can depress the trigger. Keep the cutter (nozzle end) close to the metal and use the guide surrounding the nozzle to trace templates if you have them.
What line to wrap plasma gun?
Wrap up the plasma gun line, air line, and ground line.
How to turn on a sandblaster?
Turn on the machine by flipping the switch behind the unit into the ON position.
What surface is best for cutting metal?
Since we plan on cutting metal, placing the metal on a surface that is safe and allows for freedom of movement is critical. A "grate" or similar surface that functions as a table is perfect.
When you are finished cutting metal, do you turn off the machine?
When you are finished cutting your metal, turn off the machine.
What is freeform cutting?
The benefit is that "freeform" cuts can be made to metal based on guiding the cutter. Since this machine works by directing plasma through the creation of a circuit, a ground clamp is necessary, much like welding. This instructable is strictly to show practical operation of a plasma cutter. For an example where this operation is demonstrated ...
How does a plasma cutter work?
How a Plasma Cutter Works 1 Power supply -- The plasma power supply converts single or three phase AC line voltage into a smooth, constant DC voltage ranging from 200 to 400VDC. This DC voltage is responsible for maintaining the plasma arc throughout the cut. It also regulates the current output required based on the material type and thickness being processed. 2 Arc Starting Console – The ASC circuit produces an AC voltage of approximately 5,000 VAC at 2 MHz which produces the spark inside of the plasma torch to create the plasma arc. 3 Plasma torch – The function of the plasma torch is to provide proper alignment and cooling of the consumables. The main consumable parts required for plasma arc generation are the electrode, swirl ring, and nozzle. An additional shielding cap may be used to further improve cut quality, and all the parts are held together by inner and outer retaining caps.
What is plasma handheld?
Precision plasma systems (high current dens ity) are designed and engineered to produce the sharpest, highest quality cuts that are achievable with plasma.
What are the consumable parts needed for plasma arc generation?
The main consumable parts required for plasma arc generation are the electrode, swirl ring, and nozzle. An additional shielding cap may be used to further improve cut quality, and all the parts are held together by inner and outer retaining caps.
How does a Tomahawk plasma torch work?
In a typical handheld plasma system, such as our Tomahawk® Air Plasma, the electrode and nozzle consumable parts are in contact with one another inside the torch when in the OFF state. When the trigger is squeezed, the power supply produces a DC current that flows through this connection, and also initiates the plasma gas flow. Once the plasma gas (compressed air) builds up enough pressure, the electrode and nozzle are forced apart, which causes an electrical spark that converts the air into a plasma jet. The DC current flow then switches from electrode to nozzle, to a path between the electrode and work piece. This current and airflow continues until the trigger is released.
What voltage is used for plasma arc starting?
Arc Starting Console – The ASC circuit produces an AC voltage of approximately 5,000 VAC at 2 MHz which produces the spark inside of the plasma torch to create the plasma arc.
How does a plasma arc form?
The plasma arc formation begins when a gas such as oxygen, nitrogen, argon, or even shop air is forced through a small nozzle orifice inside the torch. An electric arc generated from the external power supply is then introduced to this high pressured gas flow, resulting in what is commonly referred to as a “plasma jet”.
What is plasma power supply?
Power supply -- The plasma power supply converts single or three phase AC line voltage into a smooth, constant DC voltage ranging from 200 to 400VDC. This DC voltage is responsible for maintaining the plasma arc throughout the cut. It also regulates the current output required based on the material type and thickness being processed.