Cut Quality - Thermal Dynamics PAK 200 Operating Manual

PAK 200

4.04 Cut Quality

Cut quality requirements differ depending on applica-
tion. For instance, nitride build-up and bevel angle may
be major factors when the surface will be welded after
cutting. Dross-free cutting is important when finish
cut quality is desired to avoid a secondary cleaning
operation. Cut quality will vary on different materials
and thicknesses.
Left Side
Cut Angle
Kerf Width
Top
Spatter
Dross
Build-Up
Cut Surface
The condition (smooth or rough) of the face of the cut.
OPERATION
Right Side
Cut Angle
A-00512
Cut Surface
Bevel Angle
Top Edge
Rounding
Cut Surface A-00007
Drag Lines
Bevel Angle
The angle between the surface of the cut edge and a plane
perpendicular to the surface of the plate. A perfectly
perpendicular cut would result in a 0° bevel angle.
Top-Edge Rounding
Rounding on the top edge of a cut due to wearing from
the initial contact of the plasma arc on the workpiece.
Dross Build-up and Top Spatter
Dross is molten material which is not blown out of the cut
area and re-solidifies on the plate. Top spatter is dross
which accumulates on the top surface of the workpiece.
Excessive dross may require secondary cleanup opera-
tions after cutting.
Kerf Width
The width of material removed during the cut.
Nitride Build-up
Nitride deposits which may remain on the cut edge of
the carbon steel when nitrogen is present in the plasma
gas stream. Nitride buildups may create difficulties if the
steel is welded after the cutting process.
Direction of Cut
The plasma gas stream swirls as it leaves the torch
to maintain a smooth column of gas. This swirl effect
results in one side of a cut being more square than the
other. Viewed along the direction of travel, the right side
of the cut is more square than the left.
4-4 Manual