The features of a plasma cutter help you select the best for your firm. There’s a small contrast in plasma cutter features. The difference makes it possible for you to choose the cutter that you need. Also, the cost of the device depends on the features present. There are basic features that must be there in a plasma cutting tool. They make the tool work well and finish the tasks. Also, they tell apart the manual and automatic plasma cutters. In the industrial-grade cutters, you can have free-hand and handheld devices. Here are the basic features of a plasma cutter.
Table of Contents
Cutting Power
Plasma cutters have different cutting powers. Each is built to cater to a different size of the industry. Small industries dealing with thinner metals may work well with a tool with lower cutting power. But in a large industry dealing with different sizes of metals, you’ll need a cutter with high cutting power. The time the tool will need to run also rules the cutting power you need.
Plasma cutters cut ferrous and non-ferrous materials. They cut any width of up to 2.5 inches; They can cut lower or higher depending on the cutting power. However, the quality of the cut reduces as the width of the metal increases.
Air Filters
Some features like the torch are delicate. They can get damaged when they get into contact with water droplets and dirt. It’s important to have air filters to clean the gas getting into the cutter. When you are changing the filtration system, ensure you use high-quality filters. Check your manufacturer’s proposal. If possible, buy the filters from the same supplier that sold you the plasma cutting system.
Consumables
There are parts of the plasma cutters that need replacement from time to time. A new plasma cutter should have all the time. They should list the consumables on the user manual to help you identify them. The consumables include a shield, retaining cap, swirl ring, nozzles, and electrodes. Ensure you have an extra set whenever you use the last piece f any of the parts.
Safety Gear
Any person handling a plasma cuter should have safety gear. Any slight error when using a plasma cutter can cause a serious accident. Plasma is usually in very high temperatures. It can cause serious burns or death if the plasma lands on you. Thus, you should always wear safety gear. Many plasma cutters are sold along with safety gear. It serves as an example of the quality of safety gear you should buy for your staff.
Software
There are many robotic plasma cutting systems. They need software to help them run. Each automatic plasma cutter is made to work well with specific software. You can check with the manufacturer of the supplier on the best software for your plasma cutter.
In most cases, the supplier will sell the cutter with the software. However, some clients would like to buy them separately. The knowledge of the best software will help you select the best for your firm.
Ensure the software has strong firewalls. Software systems are prime to viruses and hacking. Virus infestation can corrupt the operation of a plasma cutting system.
Cutting Guide
A cutting guide is a vital feature for every plasma cutter. It helps you to use your cutter correctly. You follow different steps to assemble and use each cutter. It’s wise to share the guide with workers within the firm. Also, there are steps to follow when cutting different shapes. The cutting guide helps you achieve the forms with ease.
Cutting Speed and Angle
High speed ensures that a cutter is precise. When the pace is slow, the cut quality is compromised. Also, there are plasma cutters that will cut materials at different angles. Such versatility is important in any industry.
Cutting Quality
Different plasma cutting system offers varied cutting quality. The variance depends on the design of the cutter and the materials used to make the cutter. Another reason is the power current the cutter can handle. The higher the electric power, the better the cut quality, However, you should try to look for a cutter that offers excellent cuts at low or medium power consumption.
Gantry
A gantry acts as the x and y coordinates. It guides the user on the extent they need to use the plasma cutter on a scale. Thus, you get a precise cut. Gantry is important when you need to cut shapes from a piece of metal. However, it is an optional feature. Some plasma cutters only need to cut the metal from one end to the other.
Water Table or Downdraft
Water tables and downdrafts help to reduce the fumes and smoke from the workpiece. You will need one of them for your firm. Water tables use water to absorb the fumes. Therefore, they are more affordable and easier to maintain. However, you risk having low-quality cuts if the water gets into contact with dirt particles. A downdraft will pass fumes and smoke through a series of filters. Therefore, it is safer to use and harder to maintain. However, they are the best for large-scale uses.
Height Control
The height control helps in automated machines. It helps get the right piercing depth and cutting height.
Integration
Different plasma cutters have different integration systems. Many industries run on a CNC basis. Thus, you need to check for a plasma cutter that integrates well with CNC. The cutting systems use software that sets the process and parameters for cutting. The power supply should also match the cutting system requirements.
Power Supplies
Plasma cutters need different electrical current levels. For example, the plasma cutters in the market will need 130 amps, 260 amps, 400 amps, or 400 amps current. Thus, you need to check your power supply at your firm.
The second thing that would affect the need for power supply level is the duration of cutting and the quality of cuts needed. The thickness of the materials also matters.
Conclusion
A good plasma cutter should have most f the features above. It’s impossible, however, to find a plasma cutter with all the features. Then ensure that the features range on the higher rating or quality. Do not compromise on the cutting quality as it determines the profits you’ll get from your firm.