FOCUS ON PLASMA CUTTING
“ By using different plasma cutter guidance systems , both flat and three-dimensional components with different contours can be produced .”
THE PLASMA PROCESS
We outline the principles and benefits of plasma cutting as well as key features , components and process variations .
Electrically conductive , ionized gas is called plasma . The plasma cutting process , used in the cutting of electrically conductive metals , utilises this electrically conductive gas to transfer energy from an electrical power source through a plasma cutting torch to the material being cut .
The plasma arc formation begins when a gas such as oxygen , nitrogen , argon or even shop air is forced through a small nozzle orifice inside the torch . An electric arc generated from the external power supply is then introduced to this high-pressured gas flow , resulting in what is commonly referred to as a ‘ plasma jet ’. The plasma jet immediately reaches temperatures of up to 40,000 ° F , quickly piercing through the workpiece and blowing away the molten material .
Plasma cutting has long proved to be a flexible and cost-effective method of processing parts . The plasma process can cut aluminium , mild steel , stainless steel and tough wear-resistant materials from as little as 1mm thick through to 60mm . Plasma cutting
The plasma jet immediately reaches temperatures of up to 40,000 ° F , quickly piercing through the workpiece and blowing away the molten material can really shine in some niche applications , such as cutting expanded metal . Unlike the oxyfuel process , the plasma process can be applied to cutting metals which form refractory oxides such as stainless steel , aluminium , cast iron and non-ferrous alloys .
Plasma cutting in focus
Plasma cutting applications include straight cutting ; bevel cutting ; gouging ; hole cutting ; extended reach cutting ; fine feature cutting and marking .
Precision plasma systems ( high current density ) are designed and engineered to produce the sharpest , highest quality cuts achievable with plasma . The torch and consumable designs are more complex , and additional pieces are included to further constrict and shape the arc . Multiple gases
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