Air Requirements for Plasma Cutters
Most plasma cutters require a source of compressed air or inert gas in order to work properly. Plasma cutters need compressed air that is pressurized to at least 60 psi and an air flow rate of at least 4-6 CFM (cubic feet per minute).
When looking for an air compressor for a plasma cutter, consider the air pressure and airflow requirements of the cutter. The amount of air a plasma cutter needs varies by model.
Operation of a Plasma Cutter
A plasma cutter uses DC voltage to heat compressed air to an extremely high temperature where the atoms are ionized to create a ‘plasma arc’.
Choosing the Right Air Compressor
When choosing an air compressor to use with your plasma cutter you need to consider the compressor’s CFM rating (cubic feet per minute) and the amount of CFM your plasma cutter consumes.
Basic Elements for Plasma Cutting
Plasma cutting requires two basic elements — air and electricity.
Uses and Applications of Plasma Cutter
A plasma cutter is a tool that utilizes a high-velocity stream of ionized gas to cut through metal. It finds applications in several industries, including automotive, aerospace, and shipbuilding.
Functionality of a Plasma Cutter
The plasma cutter (or plasma cutting torch) cuts through electrically conductive metals such as steel and aluminum by using compressed gas to ionize the air into a plasma arc that melts the material being cut.