RS Machinery Group

Choosing the right cutting machine: plasma cutting benefits

Plasma systems are some of the most used cutting machines in manufacturing.

Plasma cutting emerged from plasma welding in the 1960s and developed into a process for cutting sheet metal and plates in the 1980s. These last decades of improvements make the global plasma machine market an area expected to grow with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% over the next five years (from 2020).  

If you are looking for a plasma, the chances are you have some familiarity with it. Either way, let’s scrutinise its system starting from the basics. 

How plasma cutting works 

As with every other cutting machine, a plasma cutter shapes the given material through a plasma torch that transmits an electrically heated gas stream called hot plasma. 

The current is blown to the workpiece at high speed through a focused nozzle. The heat cuts the metal, while the gas gets rid of debris from the bottom of the cut.

Typical materials that a plasma torch can cut are steel, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper or other conductive materials.

For our plasma systems we use only geniune Hypertherm torch heads and consumables, to enhance cut quality, extend consumable life, and boost productivity – at the lowest possible operating cost.

Types of plasma cutting

There are two types of plasma machines. Based on their operative system, we have: 

  • Manual plasma systems
  • Mechanic plasma systems

The traditional ones need a worker to conduct the process; meanwhile, the mechanic plasma has a work table attached. Workshops generally use manual plasma cutters for thin metal processing, factory maintenance, scrap, welding and dismantling. On the other hand, mechanic plasma cutters are best for medium thickness plates. 

The early versions of plasma machines were large, slow and expensive. As a result, they were mainly used for the repetition of cutting patterns in mass production mode. However, thanks to CNC technology, plasma cutters now have greater flexibility, cutting different shapes based on a series of pre-programmed instructions. 

CNC plasma machines usually use a different type of plasma system than hand-held cutting applications, specifically designed for “mechanised” cutting instead of portable cutting. Any machine designed for severe manufacturing or fabrication will use a mechanised torch and system. The size of a mechanised plasma cutter depends on the table and portal used. 

CNC Plasma benefits

Wide Range of Material and Thickness 

As we mentioned before, plasma systems can make precise cuts in various metals and thicknesses, making them perfect for metalworking manufacturing plants. Moreover, they can cut medium thickness plates at a very high cutting speed, even more than a laser cutter. 

Speed 

Plasma machine systems can cut medium thickness plates at very high cutting speed, five times faster than traditional, manual torches and even faster than a laser cutter. 

User convenience

Plasma systems are user-friendly. With the right guide, you and your team will be able to get a hold of the anatomy and programmatic of the system. The most elevated plasma cutters have also very little need for repairing and check-ups.  

No distortion or debris

High definition plasma technology’s fast cutting speeds reduce the amount of heat that is transferred to the material, keeping the surface of materials cool. This reduction prevents plate warping, damage to paint and other coatings. 

Also, high definition plasma systems form minimal debris and the process itself removes excess metal, so there’s no need for chiselling or grinding.  

Cost-effective 

Plasma cutting is very economical because it is less expensive than laser or waterjet cutting. Not only that, plasma machines are very qualitative and productive.

For example, our line of Morgan Rushworth CNC plasma systems is designed and engineered for a wide variety of profiling applications.

From the market leading multi process HDPX with Hypertherm XPR and options of Bevelling and Drilling to the economical and compact ECP with Powermax air plasma, our range encompasses every requirement.

In addition to 2D cutting we also offer 2D & 3D combination systems with an option of 3D standalone tube cutting up to 300mm diameter. Discover all our plasma cutting systems to take your productivity to the next level.

Safety 

The high-temperature exports in the work environment fumes, gases, sparks and heat can cause troubleshooting and health problems for people who are largely exposed to the machine. Plasma cutting uses gas that is not highly flammable, eliminating some safety hazards with gas cutting procedures.

Before choosing a plasma machine, make sure to contact machinery professionals, who can offer you a constructive inspection and help you find the most effective option for your plant. The most crucial step is to customise your equipment with the rest of your shop floor to create a more effective workflow than what you already have.

For more information on the matter, contact our technical sales team, and we will help you with further insight.

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