15
The below is just a few tips on how to get the best cut performance out of your Jasic plasma machine.
Before cutting always check the torch, consumables and cables for excessive wear and tear. If the electrode, air distributor or the cutting tip ori-
fice shows signs of wear and tear then replace it with new consumables sized correctly for your Jasic plasma machine and application your about
to undertake. Cutting with worn
-
out consumables will only lead to poor cut quality.
Only use clean, dry compressed air (always ensure a air filter is installed), ensure you match the air pressure and air flow requirements to those
of your Jasic plasma machine. Adjust the gas pressure on the machine according to the owner
’
s manual.
Always set the air pressure when the air is flowing through the torch, this will ensure that you have proper pressure and airflow while cutting.
For torch leads longer than 12m, it is common to increase the air pressure by approximately 10 PSI.
Always use the right tip for your amperage setting. A lower amperage tip has a smaller orifice which maintains a narrow plasma stream at lower
settings. Using a 40
-
amp tip at an 80
-
amp setting will distort the tip orifice and will reduce consumable life. Using an 80
-
amp tip on the lower
settings will not focus the plasma stream as well and lead to a wider kerf.
Use extended tips to reach out further for cutting in corners, using patterns or in tight areas.
It is generally best to start a cut from the edge of the plate, hold the torch at 90° to the edge of the workpiece. Press the trigger and pause at the
edge until the cutting arc has completely cut through the material being cut.
When pierce cutting, start the pierce just off the cutting line in the area of unwanted metal. Angle the torch slightly to direct blowback
molten material away from the torch tip (which will greatly extends tip life). Once the arc pierces the metal, return the torch to the
perpendicular position and start moving the torch.
When possible, pull the torch toward you rather than pushing it away from you. On thicker materials it is common to tilt the torch back (away
from the cutting direction) about 5°
-
10° to help minimize dross build up.
When you are cutting at the correct speed, the plasma arc under the workpiece should trail the torch at a 5°
-
10° degree angle. An arc that trails
straight up and down can indicate that your travel speed is too slow, which can produce a cut that is wider than desired, along with an increase
amount of excess dross. An arc with a shallow trail indicates you
’
re moving too quickly and most likely you will not be severing the metal cleanly.
For straight line cutting, use a non
-
metallic straight edge. Using a piece of mild steel for example as a straight edge can pull the arc towards it
offering a poor cut quality or possibly causing double arcing. A roller guide can prevent this.
Plasma Cutting Tips and Techniques
Wilkinson Star Technical
