How to choose and use a Plasma Cutter

Machine Selection and Preparation

When considering your plasma cutting system it is important to consider what size and thickness of sheet materials you will be processing. The size and thickness of the sheet will dictate the overall machine size and footprint and the capacity of the high voltage source.

The Powercut 10 x 5 plasma cutter can process sheets up to 3000 x 1500mm and is a fully standalone unit. If you want to process 4000 x 2000mm sheets then this necessitates a plasma that is a portal design. This requires the installation of islands that the machine sits on and the cutting bedrolls in underneath. The thickness will then dictate the cutting source, Typically a 65Amp PMX system from Hypertherm will process up to 10-12mm plate with an excellent finish. To go up to a 25mm plate you need to consider the PMX125 system. There are also options for high definition cutting and the use of water mist to process stainless. Whatever your need – give us a shout and we’ll help you out.

Safety Precautions

While operating the machine, you should use shade 5 glasses to shield out harmful light rays from the eyes of the user. Shade 5 glasses are recommended for powerful plasma cutters of up to 50 to 60 amperes. Respirators with filters rated for vapour and fumes are also recommended, unlike ordinary gas mask which would offer less protection. Moreover, one should wear fit leather gauntlet-type gloves to protect the hands from burns and other injuries.

Cutting Speed and Machine Settings

For a consistent cut, you must carefully check the processing speed of your plasma cutter. The processing speed is vitally important for a clean cut. Our Powercut series will maintain the plasma arc voltage when cutting. This uses the arc voltage from the cutting process to maintain the torch height. Our system keeps the plasma voltage within 0.5 volts when in height control mode. In this way, the cut height and processing conditions can be maintained exactly. Torch settings, consumable choice and machine setup all play a part. As part of a Powercut installation, we will take you through all these settings.

Care and Maintenance

Keeping your machine clean and oiled is the best way to prolong the life of the CNC plasma cutting machine. The torch tip and consumables should be replaced when they become old and worn. Careful handling of the sheets when loading and unloading are also important when close to the cutting machines CNC controller bridge and Z-axis.

Clean Cut

For best cutting ensure all process settings are correct, ensure the steel is sitting flat and secure on the machine. Ensure you have the correct consumables loaded into the machine torch and please check that the voltage control system is working correctly.