Cutter Stainless Steel

Know More About Plasma Cutter And Its Usages

Everyone must have heard about the plasma cutter and its usages in the automotive service industry. But many are not completely familiar with the equipment, its features and advantages. Plasma cutters are really important for the perfect repairing of your automobiles.

To begin with, plasma cutters are equipments which can pass through ferrous metals smoothly. Basically, plasma is regarded as the fourth state of matter. It is an ionized gas into which plenty of energy is provided so that electrons are separated from atoms and there would be room for both ions and electrons to coexist. Huge amounts of energy are released when the free moving electrons collide with other electrons and ions. This energy is used to cut the metals. Precisely, plasma is obtained if a gas is boosted to extremely high temperature.

In a plasma cutter, the pressurized gas passes through a small channel to the cutting nozzle. There is a negatively charged electrode in the center of the channel. When power is supplied, a powerful spark is produced as the negatively charged electrode through the tip of the nozzle comes in contact with the positively charged metal. This spark heats the gas which is passing through the channel and creates plasma. The plasma temperature could possibly be 30,000 degree Fahrenheit which enables it to cut almost anything.

The main advantage of using a plasma cutter is that the surfaces of the metal outside the cutting area remains moderately cool thereby preventing the distortion and paint damage that usually occur with other flame cutters. Yet another benefit is that the plasma manages to cut up to five times faster than traditional cutters without relying on highly flammable gases. The plasma cutters are really capable of cutting metals quickly and accurately.

The plasma cutters are generally available in three main types. The compact type is small and portable but has high powers. The portable nature makes it easy for onsite repairs and they run off at a standard 120V AC outlet. They are capable of cutting everything from aluminum and stainless steel to carbon steel with ease. The compact type removes spot welds instantly. The second type is known as Low Amp plasma cutters that run off at either 120 or 230V outlets. They are similar to MIG welders and cuts stainless, carbon steel, aluminum and also remove spot welds. The third type known as the High Amp styles runs upwards of 85 amps. These types are generally stationery automotive service equipment. They are ideal for the most intense, industrial situations like fabrication, maintenance, and other heavy-duty applications.

Some kind of precautionary measures are always taken while handling plasma cutter since it deals with high voltages. The electric shock is fatal as the work piece and everything around is in the electric circuit. Moreover the plasma cutter's output voltages are very high. It has been advised that one should wear insulated gloves and boots, and keep the body and clothing dry during plasma cutting operations. Proper ventilation is needed during plasma cutting as it may produce toxic fumes.

If you take necessary precautions, the plasma cutters can be utilized for automotive repairing process without fear.