The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) plasma cutting has been prevailing since many years. But due to the high costs of machinery, it was not affordable to the small industries. Recently it has become affordable enough for all industries.

Generally, the plasma cutting process is known for its surgical precision. In the manual plasma cutters, the plasma cutting torch is being handled by humans. As a result, a kind of roughness is sometimes found in the plasma cut pieces. With the advent of CNC plasma cutting, the process has been more precise. In the CNC plasma cutting systems, the operator’s personal computer is been used to control the cutting torches and also creates the shapes to be cut. This process enables to cut intricate curves, inside cuts and sharp edges with a smooth precision that is usually possible only with hand saw. The computer is capable of controlling the movement of the plasma cutting torch as it turns it slightly before the process so that it would burn through the material first.

With the advent of technology, the CNC plasma cutting equipment has become capable of multi-axis cutting of thick material. This enables complex welding which is not possible in other plasma cutting systems. However, for cutting extremely thinner material, laser cutting with superior hole-cutting abilities has been used. The HVAC industry had also been utilizing CNC plasma cutters where the software would process information and creates patterns which have to be cut by plasma cutting torch. The technology has enhanced the HVAC industry since its introduction.

The CNC plasma cutting machines have undergone many developments in recent years. Horizontal cutting tables were used in the machines earlier but with further research and development, vertical CNC plasma cutting machines were introduced. The advantages of these machines include small foot print, flexibility, more safety, fast process, maximum utilization of energy and moreover eco friendliness.

Plasma cutters are available in different shapes and sizes and it is really confusing to select a perfect model. Before buying the plasma cutter you must have a clear idea about its usage and your needs.

Generally plasma cutters cut anything including aluminum, copper, stainless steel and other steels. For determining the thickness of the piece you are cutting, you must know the type of the metal being used. For cutting a quarter inch metal, you would need a plasma cutter that would cut cleanly, quickly and efficiently. Once you know about the type and thickness of the metal, you must decide upon the speed in which the cutting should be done. A bigger machine is required for faster cutting of metal. Here you have to consult an expert before going for a big machine since the machine would be tough to handle.

A high power plasma cutting equipment would require high voltage. So if you are buying a high power cutter, you should enquire about the voltage required and also about the availability of such high voltage in the work environment. If you are opting for a portable plasma cutter, then size and weight should be the prime concern. Plasma cutters which can be put inside a box in your truck to be carried to the work site are available in the market.

Plasma cutters are commonly operated using inert gas (often compressed air). Before buying the compressed air, you must know the Cubic foot per minute i.e. CFM of the compressor and it has to be at correct levels for the accurate operating of plasma cutters. Information on the proper gas supply could be sought by knowing the pounds per square inch (PSI) that the plasma cutter requires to run.

The most important thing before operating a cutter is that you must strictly follow the plasma cutter safety guidelines. Operating a plasma cutter is very much different than regular welding. So it would be better to take all the needed precautions.

Plasma Cutter has been around for 50 years. This course was so effective it was widely accepted by manufacturing and production companies as it considered the best way to cut metal. Fabricators realized the cutting quality and the efficiency of the cut was a great addition to the manufacturing world.

In recent years with the improvement of transformer unit and plasma cutter inverter technology, Plasma Cutter have become more affordable and obtainable to small fabrication shops, auto body shops, manufacturing plants, welding professionals, welding hobbyists, and garage shop owners. Longevity has been a principal manufacturer of affordable Plasma Cutting and welding equipment allowing even more individuals the opportunity to use, feel, and own a plasma cutter due to the low cost pricing.

Working Process of Plasma Cutter

The Plasma Cutter process works when gas (mainly compressed air) blowing all the way at high rates combined with electrical energy forming an arc that is extremely hot causing metal to melt away while blowing off the slag.

Plasma Cutter Applications

Plasma cutting is an excellent alternative for most cutting applications, as it cuts both ferrous and nonferrous materials, but it is predominantly well-suited for those in which speed and cut quality are important.
Plasma cuts with stumpy or no heat-affected zone, especially on thin metals. However, plasma cutting has its own limitations. It ruins cost-effective to cut thicker ferrous materials with oxyfuel.