CNC Plasma Cutting

Wed, 10 Sep 2008

CNC plasma cutting uses high velocity high temperature ionized gas along with an arc, to cut different types of materials under computer control.

The plasma cutter torch has a high velocity ionized gas that conducts electricity, which is used to heat the work piece to the melting point at the kerf. The purpose of the arc is to melt the material and the purpose of the gas is to blow the molten material away from the piece.  Plasma cutters are specially used for cutting steel and materials that conduct electricity.

Plasma cutting has unique advantages over other processes. It provides lower cost than laser and waterjet and can cut thicker material.

The process can be used on ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The cut edge may be relatively rough and may exhibit an oxide layer.  The plasma cut surface may not be precisely perpendicular to the surface of the sheet being cut.

eMachineShop offers online designing and ordering of custom plasma cut parts as well as a variety of other processes.