Benefits of Plasma Cutting
In the innovative world of modern manufacturing and metalworking, plasma cutting has emerged as a transformative technology that redefines precision and efficiency. These advanced tools revolutionize the way that we cut and shape metals, delivering swift and accurate results that align with project requirements and creative objectives. At Hornet Cutting Systems in Valley Center, KS, we serve as your cutting table experts to help you find the CNC plasma cutting table right for you.
No matter the type of material, thickness, or length, there is a cutting machine that can help you with your next project. But first, let’s explore some of the top benefits of plasma cutting.
Plasma Cutters Can Be Used on All Types of Metal
Plasma cutting can be used to cut any type of conductive material, compared to flame cutting which is limited to ferrous metals. What makes plasma cutters unique is that they use an electric arc capable of cutting all types of metal with precision. However, the quality of the cut can vary based on the gases used during the cutting process. Some of the most common materials cut using plasma cutting include:
- Aluminum: Plasma cutting can cut aluminum materials with thicknesses up to 160mm (6-3/8”), making it a cost-effective solution.
- Brass: As a highly conductive material, brass can be affordably fabricated using plasma cutting. However, as brass contains zinc which should not be inhaled, it should only be used in a well-ventilated area.
- Cast Iron: Known for its malleability and low cost, cast iron offers a low melting temperature and high compressive strength, making it a great option for plasma cutting.
- Stainless Steel: This type of metal is both rust and corrosion-resistant, allowing stainless steel plates in multiple grades and thicknesses up to 30mm (1-3/16”) to be cut with ease.
- Mild Steel: Mild steel is a versatile, inexpensive, and weldable material that is often used in plasma cutting.
- Copper: With its corrosion resistance, weldability, high ductility, and excellent electrical conductivity, copper can effectively be used in plasma cutting but should only be done in a well-ventilated area.
With their ability to be used on all types of metals and conductive materials, plasma cutting can improve the outcome of any project. At Hornet Cutting Systems, we are a leading manufacturer of high-performance CNC plasma cutters. Powered by Hypertherm, machines can be configured for plasma cutting, oxyfuel cutting, or both.
Plasma Cutting is Fast
Compare the speed of plasma cutting with other cutting tools and you’ll discover that plasma cutters are considerably faster. In fact, they can get the job done in a quarter of the time it takes with other tools. The average cut speed exceeds 100 inches per minute, allowing you to complete your project in record time.
Certain adjustments to the cut can influence how fast it works. For example, the speed may decrease with thicker materials. However, the use of a plasma cutter can significantly reduce common issues such as metal abrasion, distortion, and cuts made in error. Overall, plasma cutting can save you considerable time and is faster than oxyfuel.
Plasma Cutting Allows for Versatile Cuts
Plasma cutters are incredibly flexible, making them an essential tool for all types of metalworking. In addition to being able to cut with it, plasma cutters can also mark, gouge, bevel, and even weld. Few other tools allow for this type of versatility.
Compared to other techniques like oxyfuel, plasma cutting has a cutting edge. It can cut various materials while stacked on top one another, leading to significant time savings. Achieving such versatile cuts allows you to bring your project or artwork to life.
Industrial-strength CNC plasma machines offered by Hornet Cutting Systems serve clients in a wide range of industries, such as manufacturing, steel processing, structural steel, shipyards, fabrication, transportation, and more.
Plasma Cutters Create High-Precision Cuts
Precision is key when working on any important project. Plasma cutters make hitting the mark simple by offering a tolerance as low as 0.2mm, outpacing any other metal cutting method. This level of precision helps reduce potential material waste and reworking.
The ability to create intricate curves, specific shapes, and multiple intersecting cuts are other major perks of using a plasma cutter. When operated by a professional, a plasma cutter can be guided along even the most precise lines, either manually or with computer-aided assistance.
At Hornet Cutting Systems, we offer machines that can run 8 hours per day or round the clock, allowing you to meet the demands of your industry with ease.
Plasma Cutting Reduces the Risk of Distortion
Distortion is a common risk that can occur when cutting metal using tools that produce heat. However, this issue is mostly eliminated with the use of high-precision plasma cutters.
As a plasma cutter moves incredibly fast, and the torch along with it, the exposure to high heat is limited, reducing the risk of distortion. This can be especially beneficial when cutting sheet metal and similar materials.
Metal warping can reduce the quality of your final product and can waste time and materials when pieces need to be redone. Unique plasma-cutting technology is one of the best solutions to this problem.
Plasma Cutters are More Energy-Efficient
Energy efficiency is often a topic of concern when working on important or long-term projects. Plasma cutters offer a more sustainable solution compared to other options, making them a popular alternative to more energy-reliant tools.
Plasma cutters also save energy in other ways, such as not needing time to warm up before use. Plasma arcs can reach significantly high temperatures of up to 25,000 degrees Celsius (45,000 degrees Fahrenheit). This is essentially a temperature that is nearly five times hotter than the sun, meaning metal is liquified in milliseconds with no preheating necessary.
Plasma Cutting is a Cost-Effective Solution
If you’re looking to cut things faster and with less waste and energy use, plasma cutting is an excellent solution. Plasma cutting requires minimal prep work to get started. There is no need to preheat the metal or scrub the surface perfectly.
Unlike many other cutting tools, plasma cutters don’t need pressurized gas tanks to operate. Instead, they require an adequate air compressor or a cutter that has an integrated air compressor.
As plasma cutting allows you to cut things fast with minimal waste, it’s considered a cost-effective option that is affordable for most people. You can also save money by purchasing a used cutting table over a new one. Ask our sales team at Hornet Cutting Systems about how to save tens of thousands of dollars by buying a previously owned cutting machine.
Plasma Cutters Can Be Used for a Variety of Thicknesses
Some cutting tools can be difficult to use when attempting to cut thick pieces of metal or other conductive materials. That is not a problem with plasma cutters. These tools can cut metals up to one-half inch in thickness.
Depending on the type of machine being used, plasma cutting is generally feasible for the following:
- Metal thicknesses up to 50mm for great quality cuts
- A maximum metal thickness of up to 150mm
Plasma Cutting Is a Relatively Safe Option
Safety is always a top priority when working on any project that involves the need for complex or dangerous tools. Plasma cutters are unique in that they use gas that is not highly flammable, making them safer than alternative cutting methods.
Most plasma cutting is completed using compressed air. In some cases, argon, nitrogen, or water is used to assist with the cutting process. These substances are considerably safer than propylene, acetylene, and other volatile and flammable gases used in other methods, such as oxyfuel-cutting processes.
With oxyfuel, there is a significant risk of accidental ignition or an explosion while in storage. Plasma cutting, on the other hand, uses inert gases that are converted into a jet of hot plasma only while the torch is in use, making it a safer choice than oxygen-based cutting tools.
Plasma Cutters Reduce the Heat Affected Zone
The heat affected zone (HAZ) is the area of metal between the base metal and the area being cut or welded that has changed properties due to exposure to high temperatures. As plasma cutters support superfast cutting, the heat is not able to disrupt the stability of the metal.
This allows materials to retain their corrosion resistance and prevents metals from losing their mechanical properties. Plasma cutting can also be completed in water, which results in smaller heat-affected zones. The process also reduces noise levels.
Contact Hornet Cutting Systems for Reliable CNC Plasma Tables
Since 2004, Hornet Cutting Systems has proudly designed and manufactured its OEM line of Hornet cutting machines. Today, ISO 9001 is used in more than 175 countries by organizations and businesses both small and large, and in both the private and public sectors. Our achievement of ISO 9001:AS9100D certification proves our dedication to maintaining high standards in every design and build we complete.
To learn more about our CNC plasma cutting machines or for a quote, contact our sales team today at 1-844-209-5552 or request a quote online.
