What is plasma cutting technology?
In simplest terms, plasma is superheated, compressed air that ionizes to form a conductive gas. This gas conducts electricity from the torch of the plasma cutter to the work piece. This is done through a conductive electrode and copper nozzle on the machine, which constrict the high velocity gas causing a tornado effect. This provides energy to the arc that melts and blows away the metal (see diagram). Plasma cutting can be performed on any type of conductive metal mild steel, aluminum and stainless are some examples. With mild steel, operators will experience faster, thicker cuts than with alloys. How does plasma cutting compare to oxyacetylene? Oxyacetylene cuts by burning through the metal and is therefore limited to steel and other ferrous metals. Plasma cutting produces enough energy to melt the metal and then creates the momentum to blow it away. Because of this, plasma cutting can cut non ferrous materials, has a lower skill level and offers faster travel speeds. In addition, it
