Linde BOC Raptor CUT 30C, Operating Manual

Page: 23 / 32

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12.0 Cutting Technique
12.1 Cutting
As a general rule for cutting amperages below 40 A
the cutting tip can be dragged on the cutting surface.
Higher amperages require a stand-off distance and
torch manufacturers normally supply a stand-off
guide or ‘drag shield’. Some operators prefer to use an
extended electrode to improve visibility when cutting.
BOC supplies guides that can be purchased to assist in
straight line, circular and bevel cutting.
For straight edge cutting the torch should be held at
a 90° angle to the plate and dragged along the plate
(Refer to Diagram 1). The cutting speed will depend
on the material thickness, amperage and airflow rate.
For bevel cutting the torch should be angled on the
plate to the required bevel angle and dragged on the
plate surface. (Note that the bevel angle will influence
the material thickness).
12.2 Piercing and Gouging
To pierce material the cutting torch should be held
at an angle of 45° to the pierce surface (Refer to
Diagram 2). Once the arc is established the torch
is turned to 90° (Refer to Diagram 3) and cutting is
carried out in a normal manner. Piercing thickness
is dependent on the output of the machine and is
generally 50% of the rated cutting thickness of the
power source.
It is important to direct the arc away from the
operator when establishing the arc as sparks and
molten material will be ejected from the point of
contact. Care must also be taken to protect the
surrounds from these sparks.
When gouging with plasma it is advisable to
use a plasma gouging tip supplied by the torch
manufacturer. The torch should be held at an angle of
40–45° from the plate surface (Refer to diagram 4).
An arc length of up to 15 mm can be employed whilst
the torch is moved in the direction of the material to
be removed. Several small cuts should be made to
remove the unwanted material.
Typical Plasma Cutting Guide Kit