Plasma Cutting: Alles, was Sie wissen müssen
Plasma cutting is a process offering precise cutting of components. There are various cutting methods, but if you are inclined to learn about what is plasma cutting, you can read this guide below. It features all the essential information about the pros and cons of plasma cutting, different types of cutting methods, and much more. So, let's read on.
What is Plasma Cutting?
Plasma cutting is a process of cutting that uses thermal technology to produce well-cut components. It is mostly used for cutting sheets of metal in a precise way. The best thing about plasma cutting is that it can easily cut complex components. It is suited for circles and curves. It melts the material and cuts it into the required shape.
How Does a Plasma Cutter Work?
The process of plasma cutting works in the following steps:
- The plasma cutter uses electric power and has a torch that uses heat to melt the metal.
- The cutters send an electric arc using a gas, and the gas then creates plasma after being squeezed at high speed.
- The workpiece is kept connected with the cutting table for a precise cut.
- Once the workpiece is cut, the component is cooled down so that it can attain room temperature.
Pros and Cons of Plasma Cutting
The pros and cons of plasma cutting are the following:
Profis
- Plasma cutting is a high-quality process that ensures that every component manufactured has a high finish and accuracy.
- Plasma cutting is a versatile process. It works perfectly when it comes to marking metals and groove cutting, and hence offers flexibility and versatility.
- Plasma cutting is very fast; compared to laser cutting, it is 100 times faster. Hence, the productivity of the process increases.
- It offers components with high surface quality and precision as it uses heat during the process.
Nachteile
- Plasma cutting is only suitable for cutting materials that are conductive.
- It cannot offer compatibility with components that have a thickness above 150mm.
- The process of plasma cutting is a noisy one.
- The nozzle and electrodes need replacement again and again, which adds to its cost.
- It produces fumes in the air during the process of cutting.
- Bright flashes, which are created at the time of plasma cutting, can impact the eyes.
Three Types of Cutting Processes
Plasmaschneiden can be conducted using three different types of cutting processes; these are discussed below.
High-Frequency Contact
High-frequency contact is a cost-effective process. It is not possible with the CNC plasma cutters as it involves high-frequency contact and hence needs a high voltage. The sparks are generated at the time of plasma cut and help to cut the metal.
Pilot Arc
The process of pilot arc cutting takes place when a spark is created using a torch. The torch consists of a high-voltage and low-current circuit. The spark leads to the creation of a pilot arc using a limited plasma. When it comes into contact with the component, an arc is created through plasma cutting.
Spring Loaded Plasma Torch Head
In spring-loaded plasma, a short circuit is created by pressing the torch against the component. A short circuit is created, and this commences the flow of current. A pilot arc is created, and pressure is released to cut the component.
Gas Used in the Process
The method of plasma cutting and the material used are the factors on which the plasma cutting selection depends. The types of gases normally used are oxygen, nitrogen, argon, air, and hydrogen. Every type of gas has a unique property. For instance, argon is a stable and inert gas that enhances the life of the nozzles and electrodes.
Nitrogen, on the other hand, ensures improved energy and plasma stability, which helps to cut materials like stainless steel and carbon steel. Air consists of oxygen and nitrogen. It is fast and affordable; it can be chosen for low-carbon steel. However, it can reduce the durability of the component.
Oxygen improves the speed of cutting as it uses high-energy plasma arc, and hydrogen is used mixed with other types of gases to enhance the cutting efficiency.
Materials for Plasma Cutting
There are different types of materials that are used for plasma cutting, and some of these are as follows:
Aluminium
Aluminium is a highly conductive material, which makes plasma cutting a suitable choice; compared to thicker materials, it is a suitable method of manufacturing. It can cut aluminum with a maximum thickness of 160mm.
Rostfreier Stahl
Stainless steel is a rust and corrosion-resistant material, and using plasma cutting, it can be cut in effective ways. It allows cutting the metal with a maximum thickness of 30 mm.
Baustahl
Mild steel has low carbon content and is used in many applications. It is also very cost-effective and is equipped with high ductility, strength, and weldability, which makes it suitable for plasma cutting.
Messing
Brass is highly conductive, which makes it suitable for plasma cutting. However, the process must be conducted in ventilated areas as it has zinc, which releases fumes that are harmful.
Kupfer
Copper offers high electrical and heat conductivity. It offers high ductility and corrosion resistance. However, while plasma cutting copper, make sure to do this in ventilated areas.
Gusseisen
Cast iron is a highly popular material that has high conductivity and a low melting point. It is also equipped with high strength, which makes it suitable for plasma cutting.
Applications of Plasma Cutting
The applications of plasma cutting can be observed in various industries, and some of these are as follows:
Kraftfahrzeug: In the automobile sector, plasma cutting is used for the repair, assembling, and manufacturing of different components like interior parts, roofs, floors, etc.
Aircraft: Aircraft are composed of components used in military helicopters and planes, which help cut and weld different shapes.
Industrielle Anwendungen: There are various metal components that need to be joined to assemble parts, and this can be done using plasma cutting. It helps shape, cut, and join the parts.
Plasma Cutting vs Laser Cutting
Plasma cutting uses a plasma gas for cutting metals that are electrically conductive. It is suitable for thick materials, and it is a faster process than traditional ones. The precision of this process is, however, a little less than that of the other processes.
Laserschneiden consists of using a beam of laser to cut materials that vaporize, and it is highly suitable for materials that are thin. It offers highly precise cuts with smooth finishing. It is suitable for conductive and non-conductive materials and works well with thick materials. However, it is an expensive process.
Schlussfolgerung
The guide above must have given you detailed information on the subject of plasma cutting, its applications, benefits, and types. As you have understood everything, if you want to use it in your new project, you can get in touch with us at DEK. We offer high-quality plasma-cutting services that help create accurate components.
FAQs
Which materials are compatible with plasma cutters?
Plasma cutters can cut materials that are conductive, like stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, etc.
Why should plasma cutting be chosen?
Plasma cutting is a quick process that helps create precise cuts.
What are the main components of plasma arc cutters?
The three main components of plasma arc cutters are the arc starting console, power supply, and plasma torch.
