How Plasma Cutters Work

You can cut metals using a plasma cutter that utilizes a plasma torch. In order for everything to work, a plasma must be created. The composition of the plasma is a combination of gas and liquid which is superheated.

The combination of compressed inert gasses and electricity are commonly used by plasma cutters. Using the metal that is being cut, a plasma cutter creates an electric circuit in order to cut the metal. Touching the end of the nozzle with the metal will then create an electrical circuit. The sparks will then travel through the negative electrode which will then meet with the fast flowing inert gasses. The combination of the gas and the electricity will heat up that gas to up to 15,000 degrees Celsius and will then transform to a plasma. In order to cut the metal, touch the end of the nozzle to which the plasma goes out. The very reason for the fast exit of plasma on the tip of the nozzle is due to its tiny exit. The speed, temperature, and the focus of the plasma are the reason why it cuts just like a laser.

Just as long as everything is set up properly, the cut will be almost like perfect. As long as the materials conduct electricity, the plasma cutter can cut it. These materials can be copper, stainless steel, aluminum and etc.

A High-Frequency Contact is one of the main types of a plasma cutter. CNC operations are not capable of this kind of plasma cutter that is why it is called a low budget gear. Using a combination of high frequency and high voltage, these type can then create a plasma. It is when the plasma torch touches the material that it is able to complete the circuit.

Another type of plasma cutter is the pilot arc and it produces plasma in two cycles. It is during the World War II that the first plasma cutters were invented. It cuts metal through high frequency and high voltage circuits There is a very high risk of electrocution if the operator is not careful. It is also very hard to maintain and repair the first versions.

Regardless of the metals thickness, a plasma cutter can handle it. the serer cut is dependent on the size of the machine. The the thickness of the cut a plasma cutter can handle will be determined by the sever cut. The thickness of the metal is what determines the easiness of the job will be for a CNC plasma cutter. If you have a higher sever cut, the work may not be as precise. The edges must be cleaned once the cut is done. The cuts are more precised in a CNC plasma cutter because it is computer controlled. When you have projects that are repetitive you better have a CNC plasma cutter.

Source: http://www.financeswire.com/how-to-save-even-more-money-with-diy/2166