plasma cutter uses

Plasma Cutter Uses

A plasma cutter is an effective way of cutting thick sheet material. Workpieces that are made of electrically conductive material are cut using hot plasma accelerated jets.

Whether your project is to make finished parts or create metal artwork, plasma cutters offer countless options for cutting stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials. It is well known for delivering high-end cuts and quicker periods of usage.

Let’s learn more about plasma cutter uses by reading the rest of the article.

What are the Plasma Cutter Uses?

When you need to cut 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional material, a plasma cutter delivers the best result, undoubtedly. Plasma cutters are popular for their precision and simple-to-use manifestation compared to other raw materials.

You can use a plasma cutter for the below projects.

  • Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Cuts
  • Metal Artworks
  • Demolitions
  • Fabrications
  • Thin Metal Processing
  • Scraping
  • Welding
  • Dismantling
  • Agricultural Maintenance
  • Factory Maintenance
  • Industrial Cutting
  • Automotive Industry
  • Home Maintenance & Repair

READ MORE: Inexpensive Plasma Cutter Under 500 Dollar

Given below are some of the common uses of plasma cutters.

Metal Artwork

Artists of specific genres of metal are quite satisfied with the performance of plasma cutters because it allows them to make intricate cuts effortlessly and efficiently. Furthermore, metal artists can make precise shapes according to the project requirement.

Cutting finely drawn lines is exceptionally effortless, and for this reason, it is widely used for stencils and templates. If you are in metal arts, consider using this tool to get precise and efficient future artwork.

Repairing

Repairing materials made of metal, the plasma cutter is much more efficient than other torch types. For example, this device does this in automotive shops, repairing trailer hitches, mufflers, fenders, etc.

Moreover, fixing fencing, watering tanks, and tractors can easily be accomplished by the plasma cutter. In fact, for metal repairing tasks, it would be the best solution.

Demolition

Use a plasma cutter when you need to break something down that is manufactured with metal. We all know that the demolition method is pretty messy because of the created dust and dirt. You will love to know that minimal mess will be created when you use a plasma cutter for destruction projects, making demolition projects convenient.

Computer Numerical Control Cuts

It is also known as CNC cut. 2-types of CNC cuts are available: 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional. A plasma cutter for CNC use will help you make multiple cuts on a whole piece of scraps, tubes, or metals.

A 2-dimensional cut is generally ideal for a flat sheet where a 90° angle cut is necessary. On the other hand, the 3-dimensional cut can be made into any angle on its edge, per the project’s needs.

Plumbing

Plumbers often need to cut a large length of pipe in the workplace. Making this type of cut is quite challenging using typical cutters because they will take more time. Additionally, the result will not be precise. In this case, a plasma cutter will be the best option.

Pipe ends are required to fit accurately, and a plasma cutter will help you achieve the expected result. Moreover, a plasma cutter offers a quicker cut and smooth end.

Contractor and Trade Work

Plasma cutters are highly portable and compact. As a result, trade workers can easily carry them in their workplace, saving valuable time and money.

For instance, a 50-AMP plasma cutter comes with a suitcase-size design that can move approximately 20”/minute and cut ¼” stainless steel without hassle. More importantly, immediate adjustments can effortlessly be made, making any cutting project convenient. Simultaneously, precise cuts save rework and extra time.

Other Uses

Vehicle manufacturers or car owners can do several enhancement works of their vehicles using plasma cutters.

Operating a plasma cutter is relatively easy with little practice. But then, if you have basic knowledge about home repairing, you can quickly fix gutters, barbecues, chain-link fences, and lawnmowers using a plasma cutter.

In fact, you will be surprised by the performance and efficiency of this tool. Also, you will wonder if there are any projects related to metal that can’t be done using it.

What Safety Precautions to Follow?

“Safety First” – you must ensure the highest safety when using a plasma cutter. Here are some safety precautions that you need to maintain mandatorily.

  • Wear UV-protected safety goggles.
  • Put on heavy gloves and hearing protection
  • Avoid burns by wearing welding helmets, proper footwear, protective clothing, and respirator.

The Plasma Cutters and How They Work was well described on grainger.com

FAQs

Do Plasma Cutters Use Gas?

Gas is necessary for a plasma cutter to work and plasma creation. The most popularly used gases in plasma cutters are Oxygen, Nitrogen, Argon, etc. In addition, some plasma cutters come with a multi-gas compatibility feature, enabling them to be used for a wide range of applications.

What Gas do Plasma Cutters Use?

Depending on the metal type, different gases are used:

  • Oxygen is a standard gas for cutting steel because it delivers the quickest cutting speed.
  • When you need to cut stainless steel and aluminum, Nitrogen is the best option as it provides outstanding cut quality.
  • Argon creates the hottest burning plasma, making it ideal for cutting thick aluminum and stainless steel.
  • Clean, dry shop air is an economical option that is efficient in cutting mild aluminum and stainless steel.

Are Plasma Cutters Dangerous?

Sparks and heat are generated during the process of cutting through metal objects. If your skin is exposed to these, you can burn yourself quickly. For this reason, it is recommended to take the highest safety precautions like wearing hand gloves, respirator, safety clothing, goggles are necessary when working with plasma cutters. Also, make sure to operate this tool in a well-ventilated area.

Final Words

So, from the above discussion on plasma cutter uses, it is pretty clear that plasma cutters are a versatile tool, enabling you to accomplish a wide range of metal projects. Moreover, they are much more efficient, easy-to-use than other torch types. This tool is a time-saver, offers precise, clean, and intricate cuts as well.

Before turning on the plasma cutter, ensure that everything is in order and that required precautions are taken to avoid potential hazards.