One of the coolest things invented in this world is the plasma cutter. It is revolutionary in the metal cutting industry. One of the best things about plasma cutters is that they can cut through any kind of metal. However, most of the time, this tool is used for cutting various electronic metals that are best for conduction.
The plasma cutter proves to be the best tool if you want to make the most accurate metal cuts. But what is the right plasma cutter temperature needed in cutting metals precisely?
Here’s a brief background about plasma cutting: the process started in the 1950s and was originally designed as a way to accurately cut thin and thick materials. However, this method had initially been rejected by manufacturers and fabricators up until 1970 because of the cost of the system and gases required, as well as the knowledge needed in its operation. If you plan on using this method, you’ll need compressed gas and a high-voltage electric arc.
There is something more in a plasma cutter than meets the eye. It’s quick, precise, and affordable. Plus, you get to cut a broad selection of metals without destroying the rest of it. Discover what is the temperature of a plasma cutter when in use and how it works.
As mentioned previously, the plasma cutter was created in the 1950s for the purpose of cutting metals accurately. Just like other game-changing tools out there, it has a unique mechanism. Let’s take a deep dive into how the plasma cutter works and define the ideal air plasma cutter temperature to obtain the results you desire.
A plasma cutter needs a high-voltage electrical arc and compressed gas for cutting a broad range of metals. The compressed gas passes through a constricted opening. Once the gas is released from the opening, its temperature rises, and it creates plasma, the fourth state of matter. At this state, the gas can cut the metal into any shape you desire. Aside from that, the molten part of the metal will be blown off at the peak temperature of the plasma cutter.
You also need to know that this tool’s size ranges from small to large, more efficient cutters. What’s great about plasma cutters is that there are portable variants, which are best for DIY enthusiasts and professionals who are always on the go.
The best thing about using plasma cutters is that their temperature rises quickly. You need not wait for a long time to get your metals cut.
At its most efficient state, a plasma cutter jet reaches up to 22,000°C, which lets you cut metals quickly and precisely.
When you measure it in Fahrenheit, the minimum air plasma cutter temperature it yields is 40,000°F, which can go up to a maximum of 45,000°C. Now, isn’t that impressive?
Pro tip: Remember to always wear your protective gear whenever you’re in the workplace. Keep your helmets, safety glasses, gloves, safety footwear, and respiratory protection in place to protect your coworkers.
The cost of a plasma cutter starts from around $1,120 up to $63,000. Quite honestly, that’s a hefty amount to pay, but it depends on the size of the machine—for example, a portable device or an industrial machine that would be used for a larger project. The cost is also affected by the features and benefits of the machine itself. If you want more features, naturally, it will cost more.
There are more affordable plasma cutters out in the market that cost around $180. However, know that even if these machines make precise cuts, they may require replacement and maintenance much sooner than you’d like.
After knowing the history and the cost of plasma cutters, discover how and for what purposes you can use them.
If you’re a crafter, a hobbyist, or a do-it-yourselfer, a plasma cutter can help you easily cut through drawn-out patterns and designs on metals. Artists use this tool to create neat and clean patterns with accurate results.
One more great thing about using a plasma cutter is that you can create templates for your metallic artworks with ease.
Another good use for plasma cutters is in cutting metal blocks accurately on-site. It takes a huge deal of work off your hands as you no longer need to carry around huge metal blocks in different areas. Plasma cutting also makes the delivery of materials to the site easier.
Plumbing may be quite difficult for some as it requires pipes of different sizes. Some need pipes to fit a small part of the plumbing. Cutting pipes with a plasma cutter yields smooth ends, especially at maximum plasma cutter arc temperature. Fixing pipe edges now becomes easy, and plumbers work more efficiently with plasma cutters.
As technology advances, plasma cutters also evolve. Nowadays, there are computer-controlled plasma cutters, commonly known as CNC cutting machines. Attaching your plasma cutter to a CNC machine helps you save resources, especially your time and money.
A plasma cutter may be used for conductors such as the following:
Different kinds of metals have different melting points, which may pose a challenge depending on the cutting capacity of your plasma cutter.
A plasma cutter is such a great tool that delivers impressive results. Now that you know the minimum and maximum plasma cutter temperature, you can definitely cut metals more precisely and with ease.
It goes without saying that investing in your own plasma cutter will be one of the best decisions you’ll make for your business, project, or hobby. So what are you waiting for? Get your own plasma cutter now!