How a plasma cutter works

For cutting metals that conduct electricity well, such as aluminum, it is worth using a plasma cutter. This machine cuts extremely fast, and can also handle material with a thickness of up to 100 mm. Moreover, these cutters are very efficient and their monthly operating costs are relatively low. When processing metals with a larger cross-section, it is definitely the best solution.

How do plasma cutter work?

Ionized gas – air, but also nitrogen or argon – conducts electricity better the higher its temperature. The plasma cutter uses this fact: the device produces an electric arc, the temperature of which can reach up to 30,000K. Such a high temperature easily melts the treated material, and the burnt elements are removed from the crack created in this way. This results in a much smoother edge than with a similar gas burner.

What are the advantages of a plasma cutter?

The pace of work with the cutter is a big advantage. The puncture of the material is very fast, and the cutting itself is up to 7 times faster than with oxy-fuel cutters. This has a significant impact on the efficiency of the device, especially since it does not need to be warmed up for a long time to start working. The plasma cutter allows you to cut both vertically and diagonally, and it also cuts very precisely. As the cutting gap is not very large, there is no significant material loss. Finally, one should not forget about the negligible impact on the entire material – apart from the place where the firing takes place, the rest of the material is practically not heated.

Application of burners

The device allows both processing by cutting and gouging – hence the wide use of this method, from heavy industries, to road maintenance or the creation of steel structures. In addition to cutting, the machine also allows you to remove welds and rivets, so it will be useful when demolishing steel structures. Thanks to the relatively low price and high efficiency, it will prove itself especially in small and medium-sized workshops.