FILTER PRODUCTS
Plasma Cutters
Frequently Asked Questions
While operating costs for lasers are typically higher, they provide a level of detail that plasma cutting might not. As a result, plasma is preferable for simpler cuts, whereas lasers are great for engraving details or cutting out small shapes from metal. Heavy metal sheets can be cut with plasma cutters. On the other hand, plasma cutters come with a great proven technology that can offer high cutting speeds and production capacity.
Although the plasma cutting technology may appear complex, the process itself is very simple to learn and execute. Most plasma cutters require minimal operator training before use.
Plasma cutters are used for cutting and gouging operations, with the average hand-held system capable of cutting up to 1 inch (25mm) of metal thickness. High-end powerful units that are mounted on a CNC table can cut through metal sheets of up to 6 inch (150mm) in thickness.
Yes, while not as flexible as laser cutters, conventional plasma systems can drill holes with diameters down to 5mm and a tolerance of ~0.75 mm (.030 in) precision. They can also produce countersunk holes and chamfer edges of profiled holes.
Plasma cutters are based on relatively simple technology. As such they are quite durable and can last many years with proper care and maintenance. That said certain parts will require periodic replacement as we discuss in the following question.
The nozzle and the electrode are the two main components that wear out first on plasma cutters. The latter components come in close proximity to the substrate being cut and withstand high temperature conditions. The quality of the nozzle usually deteriorates gradually as the quality of cuts gets compromised. Luckily, those components can be periodically replaced as most manufacturers carry replacement parts. If you have a complete CNC table then the drive train of the CNC table might also require service or replacement some time down the road.
Make sure that you stay within the recommended parameter ranges when operating your laser cutter. This pertains to ambient condition (temperature, cleanliness, etc.) as well as to cutting parameters (cutting speed, nozzle positioning over the sample, etc.). Preventative maintenance, such as replacing the nozzle or electrodes periodically will ensure that there is no stress on other parts of the system ensuring both longevity and the continued high quality of the cuts.
Plasma cutters can generally cut conductive sheets of materials including mild steel, stainless steel, carbon steel, expanded steel, aluminum, copper, brass, etc.
Non-conductive materials cannot be processed with plasma cutting because they are not electrically conductive enough to create the plasma arc by closing the electrical circuit between the nozzle and the substrate being cut. Therefore, plasma cutters, cannot cut wood, glass, most plastics, or metals with low conductivity such as manganese, lead, tungsten, and tin.
Yes, plasma cutters can cut through rusty metals or metals that have thin coating of pain. You might need to adjust the current to achieve the optimal cut quality but generally speaking the voltage between the nozzle and the substrate is high enough to create the plasma arc even through a rusty or painted surface.
Plasma cutters incorporate relatively simple technology. As such they are widely adopted for their reliability, ease of use and affordability. You can obtain a good handheld quality plasma cutter for under $1,000; whereas complete integrated CNC table systems can be upwards of $10,000. Please inquire to find out the price of a specific model or to get a customized quote.
No, while plasma cutting process generates extreme heat that melts the metal locally, the plasma arc is generated inside a high velocity stream of inert gas which creates a neat ridge (cut) along the trajectory of the plasma cutter.
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