Plasma Cutting – Process, Applications, Safety, Variants and Selection
Plasma cutters are capable of cutting metals in simple and complex shapes including producing holes, bevel edges, gouging, and markings. Plasma is a cost effective and practical alternative to oxy-fuel, laser and water jet cutting processes and is used in industrial, trade and DIY applications. Plasma cutters are used in all types of industries including manufacturing, pharmaceutical, oil/gas and arms industries.
When gas is heated to extremely high temperatures, the electrons in the gas molecules break free from the nucleus, turning the gas into plasma. Plasma cutting is carried out by directing the plasma jet through the metal.
The advantages and disadvantages of plasma cutting as compared to the other cutting processes are as follows: