Consumable Plasma Cutters - Pros & Cons

A plasma cutter is a device which can cut through a metal using super heated gases emitted from its nozzle. Thy can focus approximately 30,000 degrees Fahrenheit of heat in the tightly-focused emission, cutting into the thickest metals in moments. They are also known as plasma torches.

Uses of Plasma Cutters

Plasma cutters first came into existence in the Second World War. The Allies used their immense power & easy application to produce aircraft & armoured vehicles in large numbers. Since then, they were used in aeronautics & construction & also by vehicle manufacturers & locksmiths. Artists also utilized them frequently in metal works & sculptures.

How Plasma Cutter Functions

Gases like nitrogen, argon or oxygen is released through a narrow nozzle. Inside, there is an electrode. It pumps electrical current into the gases in a process known as Ionization. Due to ionization, the atoms in the gases jolt around with stimulation. They divide the electrons from the nuclei & thereby form Plasma. This is pushed into its highest state of activity. This activity causes an enormous surge of energy which can be utilized in the toughest industrial components.

Selecting a Plasma Cutter

One should be careful not buy a piece which is more powerful than is necessary due to their high prices. If there is regular use for a plasma cutter, an unit with more power can used. Heavy units maybe necessary for certain requirements. Sometimes a high priced portable generator has to be arranged. It can pass through ferrous materials. By definition, plasma is the fourth state of matter next to solid, liquid & gas, in order. Plasma is an ionized gas, a gas into which sufficient energy is provided. It will free electrons from atoms/molecules & it will allow both ions & electrons to co-exist. If a gas is boosted to extremely high temperature, plasma comes into force. When the fast moving electrons collide with other electrons & ions, enormous amounts of energy are released. Unbelievable cutting power is the result of this energy.

Plasma cutters work by sending a pressurized gas through a small channel in the cutting nozzle. In the centre of this channel, there is a negatively-charge electrode. If power is applied to the negative electrode, if the tip of the nozzle touches the positively charged metal, this creates a circuit resulting in very powerful spark. When the gas passes through the channel, the spark heats the gas to the highest temperature. The plasma temperature can reach up to maximum 30,000 degree Fahrenheit.

Plasma cutters work by creating a high velocity plasma flow between a negatively charged electrode & a positively charged one. If you use a plasma cutter, the surface of the metal area outside of the cutting area remains cool. This prevents warping & paint damage. Compared to traditional torches, plasma is faster than other gases & does not depend upon highly flammable gases. They have become the mainstay of any industry. In plasma cutting, the shapes can be arranged in a computer system before cutting. Thanks to modern technology, it is possible to cut metals with laser precision. It is different from conventional welding torch. The highly-charged & extremely-heated temperature jet of plasma will melt through metal at the contact point without creating any impact on the surrounding material. For small jobs in a workshop like bodywork patch & replacement panel, plasma cutters offer the ideal solution.

As plasma cutters use an inert gas, volatile & explosive gases need not be stored. Previously, plasma cutters were not accurate in cutting metals due to their large frame. They are now capable of producing a focused flame due to latest technology. Their prices are below $1000. Fire power 12 amp plasma cutter with its own compressor is priced at $998.75. This tool meant for small jobs in a workshop can do multiple functions. Plasma cutters were used cut conductive materials such as copper, silver & gold. Of late, non-metallic conductors like graphite also are cut by plasma cutters. They are used for sheet metal in curved or angled shapes. Modern plasma torches are sold at comparatively cheaper rates. They are used in custom auto shops & car manufacturing factories. Construction companies also use them. Locksmiths also use plasma cutters to drill into safes & vaults. The following variations such as: Hypertherm, Cyberweld, Millerwelds & Plasma cutter are employed for different functions. These most-modern & improved versions cost only $300.

Before buying a plasma cutter, one has to think about three important points.

* The thickness of the metal.
* The maximum thickness normally subjected to cutting.
* The speed of operation or the time frame for completing the job.


Finally, before starting operation, note the following aspects. Safety equipment, reading the owner's manual, inspecting the torch tip, replacement of worn out items & checking air/gas gauge.