Advantages and disadvantages of plasma cutting

Although many people confuse these terms, it is important to remember at the outset that laser processing and plasma cutting are two different techniques, using different means to achieve similar results. In this article, we will focus on presenting the advantages and disadvantages of only the latter solution, and finally explaining which method should be used in your own mechanical plant or commissioned by specialists.

Advantages

Undoubtedly, what distinguishes plasma cutting in particular is its extremely high precision – therefore it is perfect for machining according to more demanding guidelines regarding shape and dimensions. At the same time, it does not translate into slower work – quite the contrary. With this technique, you can achieve the desired results up to 7 times faster than with other methods. There is also no unnecessary loss of material here, since melting only takes place in the minimum possible zone. So plasma cutting is fast, precise, efficient and completely safe for the material.

Disadvantages

Although plasma cutting has many advantages, there are several disadvantages to this method, which may mainly disturb workers present in the same room as the machine. This is due to a large amount of UV radiation, which, especially in the absence of dedicated workwear, may translate into health problems. At the same time, compared to gas, laser or water methods, such devices work much louder, causing discomfort to the operator and other people.

Then what to choose?

The advantages and disadvantages of plasma cutting presented above show that there are no perfect solutions. What you should choose fully depends on the needs and possibilities of your plant – space development, budget, and the nature of the orders. We do not hide, however, that nowadays this technique is increasingly being replaced by the method using a laser, which achieves similar or even better processing parameters, while eliminating the most common disadvantages.