Plasma Arc Cutting

Plasma arc cutting is a metal cutting process that uses a high temperature, high velocity stream of ionized gas to melt and blow metal from the line of cut.

Process Characteristics

Is used primarily for ferrous and nonferrous metals
Produces temperatures up to 60,000°F
Cuts at high speeds with good accuracy
Uses an inert gas to form plasma, which also serves as a shielding gas
Requires a cooling system for the torch and sometimes the workpiece
Is typically automated
Produces high noise levels

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Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.