Plasma Cutters

Plasma Cutters at Engweld

Plasma cutters are versatile machines used for plasma cutting. Plasma cutters produce a focused jet of hot plasma to slice through conductive materials with exceptional speed and precision. This makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, from fabrication shops and automotive repair to industrial construction and even DIY projects. They're suitable for cutting thin and thick materials alike, so long as the material conducts electricity.

Plasma cutters here at Engweld come in a variety of configurations to suit different needs. Our hand-held plasma cutters are perfect for quick cuts and on-site work, offering portability and ease of use. On the other hand, our stronger, computer-controlled (CNC) plasma cutting machines provide unparalleled precision and automation, allowing for intricate cuts and complex shapes on a larger scale. These machines often utilise high frequency transistor inverters to convert the mains supply voltage into a high-frequency current, maximising efficiency and control over the plasma arc.

How Plasma Cutters Work

At the heart of a plasma cutting machine lies an electrical arc. This arc, often initiated by a pilot arc or a high voltage spark, superheats and ionises compressed air (sometimes mixed with other gases) into plasma. This accelerated jet of highly conductive plasma is then directed at the workpiece, melting and expelling molten metal along the desired cutting line, leaving a smooth cut with minimal dross.

What Materials Can You Cut with a Plasma Cutter?

Plasma cutting equipment excels at cutting a wide range of conductive materials, including:

• Steel (mild steel, thick steel plate)
• Stainless steel (generally found in CNC applications)
• Aluminium
• Copper (and other conductive metals)

Choosing the Right Plasma Cutter

The right plasma cutter for you depends on your specific needs. Consider the following factors:

• Material thickness: A hand held plasma cutter is well-suited for cutting thin sheet metal, while CNC plasma cutters can handle much thicker materials.
• Cutting needs: Do you require straight cuts or intricate angled shapes? CNC plasma cutting machines excel at complex cuts.
• Portability: Hand-held plasma cutters offer greater flexibility, while CNC plasma cutters typically require a dedicated workspace.
• Power supply: Ensure your chosen machine matches your available input voltage from your mains supply.
• Air supply: Plasma cutting utilises compressed air. Correct air pressure is crucial for optimal performance.

Related Categories to complement your Plasma Cutter:

• Plasma Torches
• Plasma Torch Consumables and Spares
• Air Filtration Kits for plasma cutting machines 
• Air Compressors

Plasma Cutters Guide

How Do You Set Up A Plasma Cutter?

Setting one of our plasma cutters is a straightforward process. Once you have everything you need - the machine, air compressor and air hose - simply follow these steps:

1. Connect to Air Compressor: Use the fitting on the rear of the machine to connect your plasma cutter to a suitable air compressor.
2. Power Connection: Plug your plasma cutter into the mains power supply. Choose the right voltage depending on your machine's specifications.
3. Grounding: Connect the earth lead to your workpiece.
4. Torch Connection: Attach the plasma torch to the plasma cutting machine.
5. Amperage Selection: Choose the appropriate cutting amperage based on the thickness of the material. Higher amperage is required for thicker materials.
6. Air Pressure Adjustment: Set the air pressure using the adjusting knob on the air pressure regulator, as outlined in your machine's manual.
7. Start Cutting: Press the switch on the torch handle and move it across the workpiece to begin cutting.

What's The Difference Between A Clean Cut and a Severance Cut?

Clean Cut
A clean cut is a precise cut that completely penetrates the material. The cut edges are relatively smooth with minimal dross (excess molten metal) on the bottom edge. The cut is typically straight and requires little to no additional preparation before welding or other industrial processes.

Severance Cut
A severance cut is made near the maximum cutting capacity of the machine. This results in a slower cutting speed and a less precise cut. The cut edges may be rougher with more dross, requiring additional cleaning before further processing.

Why Choose A Plasma Cutter Over Oxy-Ccetelyne Cutting?

Plasma cutting offers significant advantages over oxy-acetylene cutting. For one, it produces generally cleaner cuts with minimal or no post-cut cleaning required. Unlike with oxy-acetylene cutting, plasma cutting only requires compressed air and a power supply, eliminating the need for costly gas cylinders. Our plasma cutters are highly portable, featuring long-reach cutting torches and avoiding the cumbersome handling of heavy gas bottles, thereby improving workplace health and safety.