A CNC Plasma Cutter combines the unique power of plasma with the efficiency, accuracy and speed of CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) software. Combine these two items with a very strong, fully welded machine base, and you have a formidable cutting machine.

Plasma exists only at very high temperatures and is

used by plasma cutting systems to cut electrically-conductive metals

very neatly and very quickly. A CNC Plasma Cutter adds specialized

software that controls and directs the plasma cutting torch with speed,

accuracy, efficiency and repeatability.

Put simply, plasma is a Vibratory Finishing Machine and energized to the point that some of

the electrons break free from and travel with their nucleus. A nozzle

at the cutter's tip concentrates the gas and introduces a spark, and

turns the gas stream into plasma. Inert or semi-inert gases are used to

shield the area where the plasma touches the metal. The force of the

plasma is strong enough to blow the molten metal out of the work piece,

creating a thin (less than a 1/16" wide), clean cut with little or no

slag. The plasma itself reaches temperatures as high as 30,000 degrees

Fahrenheit and easily cuts through 2" inches of metal.

The part

of a CNC plasma cutter that makes it so incredible efficient is the

Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) software. The CNC software, with

the help of the computer, controls and directs the plasma cutting torch

with speed, accuracy and efficiency. Computer-based software programs

like CAD/CAM are an integral part of each CNC machine tool. The CNC

software also assures precise handling of the machine and exacting

distances between the plasma nozzle and metal sheet. CNC software

ususlly includes nesting capabilities, making the plasma cutter even

more efficient.

Plasma cutters come in all shapes and sizes. What

makes the difference between them, is their construction and their

components. High quality units feature solid, heavy-duty, fully welded,

unitized construction. Less expensive units use a less stable, bolt

together construction or don't come with a table at all. A less stable

cutting table leads to less accurate plasma cutting and a less

efficient machine.

A word of caution should be mentioned about

any tool. Although an incredible powerful cutting machine, a plasma

cutter can also do terrible damage to the human body. Besides working

smart, an operator should wear goggles (shade #5), gloves and

protective clothing.