CNC Plasma Cutting Machine

A plasma cutting machine is a machine that uses a plasma gun to cut metals. A CNC plasma cutting machine is a plasma cutting machine that is controlled using a computer. Computer software like CAD and CAM form an integral part in controlling a CNC cutting machine. Since these machines are controlled by a computer, there is a lesser risk of injuries happening to the person controlling the machine. It is an efficient replacement to traditional welding and manual machines. It provides better productivity, less risks and a higher quality of finished products. That is why a CNC plasma cutting machine is preferred to other manual machines.

CNC Plasma Cutting Machine

Let’s first see how a traditional plasma cutting machine works and then how it is integrated with a computer to produce a CNC plasma cutting machine. Traditional plasma cutting is done by passing highly compressed inert gas through a tube. In the path where the gas passes through, an ultra high voltage electric arc is produced so that the gas which passes through is ionized, turning the gas particles to plasma. The temperature of the plasma is sufficient enough so that the metal is cut. The movement of plasma torch along the direction in which the cut is made is quick enough so that the pieces are separated from each other.



The difference between the traditional method and the computer controlled method is that the traditional machine requires the plasma torch to be in contact with the metal which may not be suitable in some cases. The CNC plasma cutting machine controls the movement of the plasma torch. Also, the plasma torch can be directed to cut the metal along different axes to produce parts of varied shapes and patterns. This is where a CNC cutting machine scores tremendously over its manual counterpart.

Choosing a CNC plasma cutting machine out of the various products available in the market can be quite a task. Below are some the factors to be considered while choosing it.

Stable Base:
It is essential that the CNC plasma cutting machine has a solid base to support the entire weight of the machine. Also, it is essential that the base doesn’t move during the cutting operation. If it moves, the finished product will turn out horrible. So, choosing a high quality machine with a sturdy physical base ensures high quality in the finished products.

Electrical System:
The conversion of inert gas into plasma takes place at very high temperatures of 25000 degrees celsius. So, the electric equipment producing such high voltages should be extremely reliable. Any slight increase from the expected voltage might result in an electrical avalanche that can cause serious electrical mishaps and can be fatal to human life.

Accuracy of Plasma Torch:
The rack and pinion mechanism that controls the plasma torch of the CNC plasma cutting machine should work at high speeds with great levels of accuracy. This ensures that the plasma torch operates at the highest level of accuracy producing high quality finished products.

Software Used:
The software application used in the CNC plasma cutting machine should be highly robust and intellectual to maintain greater cut accuracy in the plasma torch. The interface for controlling the software should be user-friendly.

These are the major points to consider while choosing a CNC plasma cutting machine. The machine and the application software should also be expandable to serve future demands. Ultimately, spending a few more bucks in buying a CNC plasma cutting machine should be result in quality finished material and improved productivity.