Plasma 33 H
Operating Manual
Page 1
1. Some general information about plasma
cutting
1.1 Operating principle
In a plasma torch, the air is heated to an extremely high temperature through an electric
arc, thus forming an electroconductive plasma which allows the cutting current to flow from
the electrode to the workpiece. The small-size bore of the cutting nozzle constricts the
cutting current and produces a strongly concentrated plasma cutting jet. It causes the
metal to melt very rapidly, and its highly kinetic energy ejects the molten metal from the
kerf. A clean, clear cut is the result.
1.2 Advantages
Time saving due to high cutting speed in cutting thin sheet metal, if compared to
oxy-fuel gas cutting, nibbling or sawing.
Heat build-up is kept at a reduced level due to the high cutting speed and a strongly
concentrated plasma arc. Therefore, warping of the workpiece is very unlikely.
Ease of operation.
Low operating expenses due to compressed air being used as plasma gas.
Low energy - high efficiency.
1.3 Field of Application
The plasma cutting method is applicable on almost any conductive metal, ie. high alloy
chrome nickel steels, any hardened and unhardened tool steels, constructional steels,
nonferrous metals like aluminium and its compounds, brass, copper and even grey cast
iron.
