What PPE is required for plasma cutting?
To protect your eyes while plasma cutting, wear approved safety glasses with side shield. For increased protection, use a face shield or helmet in conjunction with safety glasses. To protect your body from flying sparks and hot metal, always wear dry, undamaged, flame-resistant clothing and gloves.
Why is it important to use the correct nozzle for plasma cutting?
Nozzles are designed to constrict the gas stream flowing through the orifice in the center of the nozzle. This focuses the plasma arc which directly affects the size of the part or the kerf. A nozzle that is improper or worn out will cause the part to have improper edges and or size.
How do you optimize a plasma cutter performance?
Dry air is important for plasma cutting and maximizes cutting capacity. Keddell recommends installing an air filter and/or dryer on the machine, if it does not come equipped with one. Check, clean and replace the filter and or dryer in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What angle should you do at for plasma cutting?
Typical bevel angles for conventional plasma torches range from 1-3 degrees on the “good” side of the cut and 3-8 degrees on the “bad” side of the cut. High tolerance plasma cutting systems can achieve even lower bevel angles.
What shade is required for plasma cutting?
Plasma Eye Protection
| Process | Arc Current (Amperes) | Suggested Shade Number |
|---|---|---|
| Plasma Arc Welding | Less than 20 20 -100 100-400 400-800 | 6 to 8 10 12 14 |
| Plasma Arc Cutting | Less than 20 20-40 40-60 60-80 80-300 300-400 400-800 | 4 5 6 8 9 12 14 |
What precautionary measure you should consider in using plasma cutting machine?
Basic safety precautions of using a plasma cutter
- Not allow any unauthorised personnel to use plasma cutting equipment without supervision or permission.
- Maintain a distance between your work and cutting area, particularly if items in your workspace are flammable.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times.
What voltage does a plasma cutter use?
Primary power Plasma cutting requires two basic elements — air and electricity — so the next question to ask is what type of input power is available. Several 30-amp plasma cutters, such as the Spectrum® 375 X-TREME™, operate using 120- or 240-volt power.
What is kerf width in plasma cutting?
Kerf is defined as the width of material that is removed by a cutting process. When talking about CNC shape cutting with typical cutting processes, kerf is the width of material that the process removes as it cuts through the plate.
What PSI should I run my plasma cutter?
between 55 to 70 psi
For the majority of the Everlast product line, air pressure required to operate the torches is anywhere between 55 to 70 psi. Low amperage cuts will require less air pressure for more stable operation, sometimes down to 45 psi or so, or the arc will be blown out.
How many amps does a plasma cutter draw?
For 3/8” cut, 40 amps works out well for most brands of plasma cutters. For ½” cut, 50 amps works out well, etc. Keep in mind this isn’t the maximum thickness of cut that a plasma cutter is capable of cutting but rather, it is a good rule to follow for decent cutting speed and quality.
How thick can a plasma cutter cut?
about 1 inch
Plasma cutters are used to perform cutting and gouging operations, with the average hand-held system capable of cutting a maximum metal thickness of about 1 inch. Plasma typically requires a source for compressed air and a substantial amount of electrical power.
Can a plasma cutter cut your finger off?
The way a plasma cutter works means it most likely won’t melt your finger off if you torched the plasma over it. However, it would do severe damage if your finger was underneath the metal you were cutting, due to the extreme heat that passes below the metal being cut. It has some serious heat.
What should be the amperage of a plasma nozzle?
For example, if you are using a 45-amp nozzle, then you should set your system to 45 amps. Setting the amperage too low will cause the torch to produce low energy density, which can form dross or prevent the plasma arc from fully penetrating the material.
When to use a higher amperage plasma cutter?
Most plasma cutting power sources are rated on their cutting ability and amperage. Therefore, if you most often cut 1/4″-thick material, you should consider a lower-amperage plasma cutter. If you most frequently cut metal that is 1/2″ thick, look for a higher-amperage machine.
Is it safe to use a plasma arc cutter?
Chlorinated solvents and cleaner vapors in the presence of plasma arc cutter generates a toxic phosgene gas. Avoid plasma arc cutting use in areas which house chlorinated solvents and cleaners.
How is the nozzle of a plasma cutting torch connected?
The nozzle is connected to the positive side but is electrically isolated by means of a normally open relay. The main contactor within the power supply energizes placing a high negative voltage on the electrode. Gas begins to flow to the torch and is swirled by the baffle.