What is plasma cutting and how does it work?

Plasma cutters work by sending an electric arc through a gas that is passing through a constricted opening. The gas can be shop air, nitrogen, argon, oxygen. etc. This elevates the temperature of the gas to the point that it is able to cut through materials with ease

What is needed for plasma cutting?

The main consumable parts required for plasma arc generation are the electrode, swirl ring, and nozzle. An additional shielding cap may be used to further improve cut quality, and all the parts are held together by inner and outer retaining caps.

What is plasma cutting process?

Plasma cutting is a melting process in which a jet of ionised gas at temperatures above 20,000°C is used to melt and expel material from the cut. During the process, an electric arc is struck between an electrode (cathode) and the workpiece (anode).

What gas do you need for a plasma cutter?

Compressed Air is the most commonly used gas for lower current plasma cutting and works well for most metals from gauge thickness to 1 inch. It leaves an oxidized cut surface. Compressed air can also be used for plasma gouging on carbon steel.

What are the advantages of plasma cutting?

Some benefits of plasma cutting are: Increased Cutting Speeds. Plasma cutting, when used on metal up to 2” thick, is capable of speeds twice as fast as cutting by oxyfuel. ... Diminished Dross. ... Raised Inside Piercing Speed. ... Eliminated Plate Warping. ... Expanded Versatility.

plasma cutting machines

The Kerf

Plasma Range

Plasma cutting has been around for many years. For many applications it remains as the most cost-effective method of cutting a range of materials.

Developments and enhancements to control, plasma and software systems have enabled significant improvements in cut quality and capability. Bolt ready holes can be cut without the need for any subsequent rework, and the edge quality even on the thicker materials is excellent with our plasma cutting machines.

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PLASMASTER PROFILE

Cutting Machine

Standard Table Size

1500mm by 3000mm

RUR

Cutting Machine

Standard Table Size

1500mm, 2000mm, 2500mm and 3000mm wide

RUM

Cutting Machine

Standard Table Size

2500mm, 3000mm, 3500mm and 4000mm wide.

LOOKING FOR A CLEANER CUT?

Traditional plasma cutting is a very cost effective, tried and tested method of cut, but if you’re looking to cut thinner materials, or achieve higher cut speeds, Kerf High Definition Plasma is the solution for you.

Using Kerf’s high definition plasma machines we can achieve cut speeds of 3,300 mm/min on 12mm thick mild steel using one of our mid-range plasma cutters. The plasma cutting process can pierce and cut mild steel from 1mm right the way through to 55mm thick.

Developments and enhancements to control, plasma and software systems in plasma cutting machinery have enabled significant improvements in cut quality and capability. Bolt ready holes can be cut without the need for any subsequent rework, and the edge quality even on the thicker materials is excellent. High definition plasma cutting is ideal for mild steel, stainless and aluminum profile cutting.

Kerf offers ‘Best in Class’ high definition plasma cutting systems. We achieve this by selecting and recommending appropriate equipment from leading global suppliers. Based on your requirements, Kerf brings together a turnkey solution that meets your specification; this includes the machine, software systems, installation, training and post-sales support.

Get In Touch Today

Our sales and support teams are at the other end of the line to answer any questions you may have about any of our cutting machines, or consumables.

Oxy-Fuel

Cutting Machines

A tried and tested manufacturing process for mild steel, tailored for a wide range of industrial applications, ideal for plate between 3mm and 200mm. Opt for a cost effective method for component manufacture.

Plasma

Cutting Machines

Choose from our rapid selection of high-definition plasma cutting machines, for high quality components. Process machines for cutting mild steel from 1mm to 50mm thickness. Learn More

Ultrasharp

Cutting Machines

Laser quality cuts, at plasma cutting prices. Our in-house developed cutting technology, Ultrasharp, is sure to offer a cost effective alternative to laser cutting, without losing definition. Find Out More

Waterjet

Cutting Machines

Our Optima range of Waterjet cutting machines bring flexibility to any manufacturing department, with a wide range of materials and thicknesses that can be cut with the waterjet process. Find Out More