Plasma Arc Cutter Operating Procedures

To activate the plasma arc cutter make sure the air pressure is sufficiently around 70 p.s.i. for most plasma arc cutter units and the ground clamp is attached to the work piece.

Turn the plasma arc cutter on and adjust the amperage the manufacturers specifications for the thickness of metal to be cut.

Position the shielding cup over the metal, press the igniter button and allow the arc to become established. Next, move the arc over the cut line and make the cut.

The thicker the metal the slower the travel speed must be to get a good cut and vice versa. The quality of the cut usually decreases as the metal thickness increases and the travel speed decreases.

A guide bar may be used to help achieve good straight cuts.

The shielding cup and constricting nozzle should be held approximately 1/8" to 1/4" above the metal being cut. The operator should avoid dragging the constricting nozzle and shielding cup on the metal when making the cut unless they are specifically designed to touch the base metal while cutting.

Always make cuts on the waste side of the cut line.

Avoid cutting with the plasma arc cutter in damp or wet locations. The hazards of electrical stock greatly increased.

If plasma arc cutting over an open barrel with a grate be aware that the fume plume will be directed back toward the operator. Avoid this condition if at all possible, otherwise limit the exposure to fumes to short duration's.

Cuts with the plasma arc cutter may be made by moving forward, backward, or sideways. Determine which direction is easiest for you and use that procedure as often as possible.

Always move the plasma arc cutter (PAC) as fast as possible when making a cut. This increases time efficiency , improves the cut quality, and reduces the build up of dross.

Compressed air used in plasma arc cutter should be dry or the cutter will not yield a quality cut or it not cut at all. An auxiliary air filter may be place in the compressed air line to condition the air for a plasma arc cutter.

Always turn the plasma arc cutter off before laying the torch down and leaving the work area.

If the quality of the cut deteriorates to an unacceptable level either the constricting nozzle, the electrode, or both may need to be changed. The electrode on most plasma arc cutter will have a life of about twice the life of the constriction nozzle. Keep a supply of constricting nozzles and electrodes on hand as they deteriorate quickly during continuous use. Turn the plasma arc cutter off to put on replacement parts.

Keep the plasma arc cutter torch leads and ground lead stored so they will not be cut or damaged when not in use.