The Importance of Plasma Cutters in Cutting Thick Metal Plates
Plasma Cutter versus Oxygen-Acetylene Cutting Torch
Plasma cutters have replaced the traditional oxygen-acetylene cutting torch in most workshops because it is more cost-efficient to use and at the same time produces cleaner results. Before going any further, it is important to understand the scientific basis of this particular cutting technology. Do not be intimidated by the high-tech sounding name of the plasma cutting variant. The design of this relative new comer to the world of workshops is based on the principle that all matter takes on the four forms: liquid, solid, gas and plasma.
Everyone knows that when a solid is heated to its melting point, it goes through a phase change and becomes liquid. For example, a solid gold bar could be melted into its liquid form. However, when liquid is heated to a certain degree, the liquid phase changes to the gas phase. Many are not aware that there is a fourth phase. When gas is heated using extremely high temperatures, gaseous matter turns to plasma. In order to have an idea of how powerful this cutter could be, consider for instance that a lightning bolt is an example of plasma.
The Overall Results
Industrialists and machine shop operators prefer plasma cutting machines to the conventional type of cutters because of its overall performance in terms of speed, neatness, safety, and cleaner cuts. It is easier to understand why a plasma cutter is more efficient, safe, and produces cleaner cuts if one revisits the principle how gas is turned to plasma. In other words, the plasma flame reaches ultra-high temperatures so that it could cut through the metal without having to deal with the effect of residual heat.
This type of cutting tool is a worker’s reliable equipment when it comes to cutting thick metal. However, in order to ensure a cleaner cut, it is best to first drill a small one-eight inch hole to start the cut. Another major advantage of plasma cutting is the added capability it brings to the workshop because it performs better compared to the oxygen-acetylene variant when it comes to cutting nonferrous metal. Nonetheless, it must be made clear that a plasma cutting tool could be utilised in cutting all metals that conduct electricity.
What to Look For
In the past this type of equipment are as big as kitchen stoves but in the present time engineers were able to scale it down to portable size. Choose a plasma cutter depending on the project or the job requirement. An example of one of the simplest design is the small 110-volt model. However, there is also the heavy-duty 220-volt model that could cut through a three-quarter-inch steel plate like a knife to butter.
If a workshop or factory requires the cutting of relatively thin metal, then, the 110-volt model will suffice. However, heavier metals require the 220-volt model. In addition, technicians need to secure an air compressor, although there are brands that have built-in air compressors. Nonetheless, it is best to acquire an oil and water filter to keep the cutting air clean.
