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Improving Plasma Cutting Quality
- Online resources, videos make education easy
- Develop a good "preflight" routine
- Understanding proper mechanics saves time, improves quality
- Tips and tools for better performance
Customer Testimonial
“The faster you move (especially on aluminum), the cleaner your cut will be. On thicker material, set the machine to full output and vary your travel speed. On thinner material, you need to turn down the amperage and change to a lower-amperage tip to maintain a narrow kerf.”
— Don Keddell, training specialist, Miller Electric Mfg. Co.
Application
Plasma cutting of steel, stainless steel, aluminum and any metal that conducts electricity.
Key Business Issue
- Maximize productivity of existing plasma cutting equipment.
- Lower consumables use.
Challenge
- Overcoming poor cutting techniques, bad habits and/or lack of plasma cutting training.
New Solution
- Educating fabricators on proper cutting technique and associated benefits.
Results
- Faster cycle times. Using the right travel speed produces optimal cutting results the first time. Moving too slowly will cause a build up of dross or slag (and wastes time), while going too quickly means the metal will not be severed. Operators need to learn the visual indications of traveling too quickly or too slowly so that they can cut at the optimum speed.
- Better cut quality. A clean cut relies on several factors: travel speed, technique, distance from the work surface, consumables and special guides for the plasma torch. Better cut quality minimizes or eliminates post-cut grinding, saves time and improves part fit-up (which leads to better weld quality and lower welding electrode use).
- Lower consumables cost. Proper technique significantly extends consumables life and lowers consumables cost (and at $8 or more for a tip and electrode, savings can add up quickly).
