Plasma cutting is a technique for cutting metal, the essence of which is melting it and ejecting it from the cutting slot. The entire process is carried out with the help of a special plasma electric arc, acting under the influence of high kinetic energy. In order for the cutting process to proceed properly, it is necessary to maintain a glowing arc between the material to be cut and the non-fusible electrode. A stream of compressed air passed through the glowing arc causes ionization, as well as high power density.

During the plasma cutting process of metal sheets, the material being processed melts and is then blown out of the slot. Such a process is possible due to the cutting technology using high temperatures in the core of the plasma arc, as well as the high speed of the jet.

Disadvantages and advantages of plasma cutting

Because of the numerous advantages of this method of metal splitting, plasma cutting has become one of the most popular metalworking technologies. Among the most important pluses, we can include:

• Speed of cutting - plasma cutters work up to several times faster than oxy-gas cutters.
• Relatively low cost of purchasing and operating the device.
• Fast material piercing.
• Possibility to fully automate the process.
• Precision and ability to work at multiple angles.
• High cutting quality to guarantee smooth edges.
• Small cutting gap, allowing minimal interference with the unprocessed part of the sheet.
• Reduction of material losses due to a small cutting zone.

Plasma cutting technology also has its downsides, and these include:

• Significant noise accompanying the work of plasma cutters.
• High UV radiation.
• Structural changes occurring in the cutting zone.
• Significant difficulty in maintaining perpendicular edges.
• High concentration of gases and smoke.

Plasma technology - application

The most common applications of plasma cutting we can include machining conductive materials like:

• aluminum,
• stainless steel,
• black steel,

Plasma cutting does not require prior preparation of the material, making it ideal for dirty, rusted and paint-covered surfaces. The most important factor that allows the cutter to work properly is good electrical contact between the bulk wire and the part being cut. Plasma can also be used to cut:

• shapes,
• sheets,
• tubes,
• grids,

Plasma machines allow cutting metals in several ways, and among the most popular of these are:

1. Standard - cutting to the edge.
2. Standard - starting the cut from the center and then following a predetermined pattern.
3. Grooving - cutting from the center and then following a predetermined pattern.
4. Grooving - causing gouges in the material, allowing, among other things, the removal of unwanted weld.
5. Grooving - causing gouges in the material, allowing, among other things, the removal of unwanted weld.
6. Beveling - allowing for a slanted edge.
7. Simultaneous cutting of several metal sheets.
8. Automated - possible after installation of CNC system.

Plasma cutting has also received its modernized and improved version in the form of plasmotrons. These are devices that use gas heating to produce plasma. Their main applications are 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. So it is worth taking advantage of its capabilities and applying it in your own industry. Ensure the high quality of your services by using the available methods!