How to Choose a Portable Air Plasma Cutting Machine

If you’re looking to start your own DIY project or add a new tool to your workshop, a portable air plasma cutting machine is a great choice. It’s easy to use and works well for a variety of metal projects, including framing, reinforcement, and fabrication work.

It can also be used for general welding, including cutting mild steel and aluminum.The plasma cutting process begins with a high-voltage spark that ionizes the air inside the torch head, causing it to become conductive. The high voltage then flows from the electrode to the nozzle, forming an electrical connection between the electrode and the work. This current flow starts a plasma (a gas of highly ionized oxygen and nitrogen) that travels out the nozzle toward the work.

Some oxyfuel and plasma cutters are capable of cutting thicker materials than others, so it’s important to understand how they work before buying one. You should also consider your own needs to make sure the cutter is suited for your purposes.

Quality Cuts

A plasma cutter will not only cut your material, but it will also give you a finish that you can be proud of. Whether you’re using it for industrial or decorative applications, it’s important to choose a model that produces a clean, smooth surface.

Portability

Portable plasma cutters are generally easier to transport than their heavier counterparts. This is especially true when you’re going to be taking it to different parts of a job or working on it at different times. Fortunately, most of the latest models are lightweight and come with handles and carry bags to ensure they’re easy to bring on site.

Dual Voltage: A lot of portable plasma cutters come with dual voltage input so you can run them on 110 or 220 volts. This is a good option if you plan to bring the machine with you to multiple sites where you’ll be cutting, or if you need a lot of power for larger projects.

Duty Cycle: This is another important factor to consider. If you’re only cutting for short periods of time, a machine with a higher duty cycle will be more efficient and save you money in the long run.

Leads: Many plasma cutters come with long leads that let you move them around the project while maintaining a stationary position. However, you should only buy a plasma cutter with the highest quality leads that you can afford. They’ll last longer and be safer for you to use.

Low-Pressure Indicator Lights: Most plasma cutters feature low-pressure indicator lights that show the machine’s power level when it’s on. These are helpful for keeping track of the current output, which helps you avoid over-heating or burning up the torch.

Wind Cooling Heat Dissipation: It’s also a good idea to choose a plasma cutter with a built-in fan that can help cool down the machine after use. This will keep the operator comfortable and prevent injury.