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SAFETY
How a plasma Cutter works
Basic plasma cutters use electricity to superheat air into plasma (the 4th state of
matter), which is then blown through the metal to be cut. Plasma cutters require
a compressed air supply and AC power to operate.
Operation
1. When the trigger is squeezed, DC current flows through the torch lead into the
nozzle.
2. Next, compressed air flows through the torch head, through the air diffuser
that spirals the air flow around the electrode and through the hole of the
cutting nozzle.
3. A fixed gap is established between the electrode and the nozzle. (The power
supply increases voltage in order to maintain a constant current through the
joint.) Electrons arc across the gap. ionizing and super heating the air creating
a plasma stream.
4. Finally, the regulated DC current is switched so that it no longer flows to the
nozzle but instead flows from the electrode to the work piece. Current and
airflow continue until cutting is stopped.
Notes:
The nozzle and electrode require periodic replacement. The electrode has an
insert of tough high conductive material such as hafnium and cerium. This insert
erodes with use, also the nozzle orifice will erode with use.
Quality of the air used is paramount to longer life of electrodes and nozzles, in
short clean dry air gives longer parts life, the cleaner and dryer the better. We
recommend use of a Plasma Air Filter.
What kinds of materials can the plasma cut?
Virtually any metal can be plasma cut including steel, stainless steel, aluminium,
brass, copper, etc. Any thickness from 30 gauge through 13116" can be cut,
depending on the power of the plasma cutter used.
PLASMA CUTTER
AG-60 / AG60P
OPERATION MANUAL
Shield Cup
Nozzle
Electrode
Steel
Plasma Stream
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