14
matter in the universe is plasma. The Sun, stars and galaxies are made of plasma. On
Earth, you will find plasma in lightening and a few other places. Neon tubes and florescent
lights contain low-temperature plasma when lighted.
The difference between water ice, liquid water and water vapor is temperature. In each
of these states, temperature energy pushes the molecules of water away from each other
to change the water is in. At very high temperature and pressure the water molecules
themselves break apart, and the atoms begin to ionize. Normal atoms are made up of
protons and neutrons in the nucleus, surrounded by a cloud of electrons. In plasma, the
electrons separate from the nucleus. The electrons are negatively charged, and they
leave behind their positively charged nuclei which are known as ions. When the
fast-moving electrons collide with other electrons and ions, they release vast amounts of
energy. This energy is what gives plasma its unusual status and great cutting power.
How do Plasma Cutters Work?
Plasma cutters work by sending a pressurized gas through a small channel. In the
center of this channel, there is a negatively charged electrode. When power is supplied to
the negative electrode, and the tip of the nozzle contacts the work metal, the connection
creates a circuit. When the nozzle is lifted away, the arc will continue. As the inert gas
passes through the channel, the arc heats the gas until it becomes ionized. This reaction
creates a stream of directed plasma, approximately 30,000°(16,649 ) and moving at
approximately 20,000 feet per second (6,096 m/sec),that reduces metal to molten slag.
The plasma itself conducts electrical current. The cycle of creating the arc is
continuous as long as power is supplied to the electrode and the plasma stays in contact
with the metal that is being cut. In order to ensure this contact, protect the cut from
oxidation, and regulate the unpredictable nature of plasma, the cutter nozzle has a
second set of channels. These channels release a constant flow of shielding gas around
the cutting area. The pressure of this gas flow effectively controls the radius of the plasma
beam.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING! Make sure the Power Switch of the Plasma Cutter is in its “OFF”
position and that the tool is unplugged from the electrical outlet before performing
any inspection, maintenance, or cleaning procedures.
1. Before each use, inspect the general condition of the Air Plasma Cutter. Check for
loose cable connections, misalignment or binding of the fan, cracked or broken parts,
damaged electrical wiring, and any other condition that may affect its safe operation. If
abnormal noise or vibration occurs, have the problem corrected before further use. Do
not use damaged equipment.
2. Periodically recheck all nuts, bolts, and screws for tightness.
3. Periodically blow the dust from the cooling vents with compressed air.
4. Verify that the cooling fan is operational before cutting.
Содержание 597078
Страница 1: ...1 ...
Страница 16: ...16 ASSEMBLY STRUCTURE ...
Страница 18: ...18 Wiring Diagram ...
Страница 20: ...20 ...