The device for cutting metal. Plasma cutting machine

Operations for the processing of metallic materials require the use of special equipment. In the case of thin sheet products, it is quite possible to do with a suitable hacksaw or even a file, but thick layers can only be cut if there is an intensive effect on the structure of the billet. The optimal solution to this problem can be a device for welding and cutting metal, acting according to the principles of plasma-air processing. Externally, such devices resemble classic welding instruments, but there are a number of significant differences.

The principle of operation of the plasma cutter

This technique is part of a group of treatment methods that assume thermal effects on the material. That is, during the operation, the user directs the working head of the device for the purpose of heating a particular section. The device of a torch of this type provides the presence of electrodes and the content of plasma-forming gases - as a rule, compressed air is used. After starting the device for plasma metal cutting begins to generate welding currents, which heat the electrode. Then the arc is activated, under the influence of which the gas is transformed into molten plasma. Depending on the model of the device, the temperature index of this substance can vary from 5000 to 30 000 ° C.

This processing principle opens wide limits for the application of the device. On the one hand, the effectiveness of plasma exposure causes good performance, which is beneficial from the point of view of the use of machinery at metallurgical plants. On the other hand, cutting the metal with a welding machine is very precise and accurate, which is appreciated by the craftsmen who perform the decorative treatment of the products.

Types of devices

In the market, you can find two variations of such devices. To use the technology in working with large volumes of blanks, it is recommended to use transformers. This equipment is capable of cutting sheets up to 4 cm thick. The second type is inverters, which differ in their small dimensions and, correspondingly, in modest performance indicators. One way or another, the most widely used are inverter devices for plasma-air cutting of metals, the advantages of which are expressed not only in compactness. Such devices are also characterized by stability of arc burning, which allows performing a quality cut in almost any conditions. In addition, the latest models of inverters are not so inferior to transformers in terms of power. Representatives of the top level, for example, allow cutting sheets with a thickness of 3 cm.

Basic characteristics of plasma cutters

From the user's point of view, the main working indicator is the current strength. It affects the capabilities of the device in cutting various types of metal. Correlating the potential of the device and the characteristics of the workpiece, one should rely on the following principle: increasing the current increases the arc power and, consequently, the intensity of heating. For example, a low-power device for cutting metal with a current of 40 A will allow one to cope with a sheet 1-1.2 cm thick. If the power potential is increased to 160 A, then the equipment will be used for working with 4-centimeter sheets.

This does not mean that you should focus on the maximum performance when choosing. A lot of power is not useful and will even be superfluous if you need to perform a figured cutting. If the constant and purposeful use of the device for work with concrete materials is not supposed, then it makes sense to purchase a device for cutting metal of universal purpose. Such models provide for the possibility of adjusting the amperage, which greatly expands the range of problems to be solved.

Compressor for plasma cutter

Since the processing technique provides for the supply of compressed air, the compressor must also be prepared. In some models, it is included in the basic design, but similar equipment has serious limitations on power. For regular operation, the configuration will be optimal with the use of an external compressor. Under the condition of a properly organized pneumatic network, such a device for plasma cutting of metal will provide both high productivity and stability of heating during the whole working session.

Manufacturers of devices

The initial segment is represented mainly by domestic models from the companies "Bars", "Svarog" and "Resanta". These devices cost 25-30 thousand rubles, which do well with workpieces up to 1 cm thick. For more complex processing tasks, you should refer to models from the Fubag, Telwin, Blue Weld, etc. In this case, the cost ( 50-70 thousand rubles.), But the user can count on the possibility of forming a cut at great depth. In addition, the apparatus for cutting high-grade metal will allow you to work with a large number of nozzles, which determines the multifunctionality of the tool.

Alternative equipment

Building technologies allow performing operations of cutting solid materials in various ways. But not all methods can be optimized with the expectation of using a mass consumer. The closest competition to plasma processing is still a classic cutting disc, which provides mechanical impact. However, in comparison with it, the thermal working elements are distinguished by the accuracy and accuracy of the treatment. Recently, the apparatus of laser cutting of metal, which is a construction in the form of a small machine, is also common. This technique is characterized by high cutting speed, accuracy and ease of use, but its price is several times higher than the cost of plasma cutters.

Conclusion

The heat treatment method by today is the most popular tool for metal cutting. It's not because the tool provides the best performance. He loses these laser machines in many parameters and costs more than traditional units with cutting discs. But from the point of view of universality, the plasma apparatus for cutting metal has no competitors. The balance of technical and operational indicators makes it possible to use this tool both in everyday life and in industry. In addition, manufacturers supplement the line with specialized models that are designed to perform narrow professional operations.