Plasma cutting is a process for cutting metal by melting and ejecting it from a cutting gap. The entire process is carried out using a special plasma arc that works under the influence of high kinetic energy. For the cutting process to work properly, a glowing arc must be maintained between the material to be cut and the non-melting electrode. The compressed air flowing through the glowing arc causes ionization and therefore a high power density.

When plasma cutting sheet metal, the material to be processed melts and is then blown out of the slit. Such a process is made possible by the cutting technology with high temperatures in the core of the plasma arc and high jet speeds.

Advantages and disadvantages of plasma cutting

Due to the numerous advantages of this process for cutting metals, plasma cutting has become one of the most popular metalworking technologies. Among the most important advantages we count:

• Cutting speed - plasma cutters work up to several times faster than oxyfuel cutters
• Relatively low costs for purchasing and operating the device
• Fast piercing of the material.
• Possibility of fully automating the process.
• Precision and the ability to work at many angles.
• High cutting quality with smooth edges.
• Small cutting gap that allows minimal intervention in the untreated part of the sheet.
• Reduction of material losses thanks to the small cutting zone.
• Plasma cutting technology also has its disadvantages, which are
• Significant noise associated with plasma cutting machines
• High UV radiation
• Structural changes in the cutting zone.
• Significant difficulties in maintaining right-angled edges.
• High concentration of gases and vapors.

Plasma technology - Applications

One of the most common applications for plasma cutting is the treatment of conductive materials such as

• aluminum,
• stainless steel,
• black steel

Plasma cutting requires no prior preparation of the material and is therefore ideal for dirty, rusted and painted surfaces. The most important factor for the proper work of the cutter is a good electrical contact of the ground wire with the cut piece. Plasma can also be used for cutting

• sections,
• leaves,
• tubes,
• mesh,

Plasma cutters can be used to cut metals in various ways, the most common of which are:

• Standard - cutting to the edge
• Template - the cut starts in the middle and then follows a predetermined pattern.
• Gouging - creating a joint in the material, which makes it possible to remove an unwanted weld seam, among other things.
• Chamfer - to create an angled edge.
• Simultaneous cutting of multiple sheets.
• Automated - possible after installation of a CNC system.

Plasma cutting also has its modernized and improved version in the form of Plasmotrons. These are devices that use gas heating to generate a plasma. They are primarily used in technologies for coating heat-resistant ceramic and metal vessels with corrosion-resistant metal oxides.

As you can see, plasma has a really wide range of applications. It is therefore worth using these possibilities and applying them in your own industry. Ensure the high quality of your services with the available methods!