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After knowing what a plasma cutter is and how it works, you certainly would like to know how to set up a plasma cutter on your own. While this is a pretty careful approach to making their machine ready for cutting you can do it just by having the right kind of knowledge.
The best part about the plasma cutter setup is that it is easy and super convenient to deal with. If we talk about the pretty basic model of a plasma cutter that is handheld, you have a torch and the electric gas input.
In today’s article, our topic of discussion is the same and we shall find out by shedding light on each step for setting up the plasma cutter. With a plasma cutter, you already have the privilege of its user-friendly process since it’s a straightforward tool when it comes to its setup.
Parts of a plasma cutter
Like anything the plasma cutter also has its essential part that works together to play a vital role. This includes:
- The torch
- Oxygen supply
- Power supply
How to Set up a Plasma Cutter Setup Step-By-Step
Most plasma cutters require a dry air supply and many machines already come with the filter to dry and keep off impurities from the air feed. However, depending on the type of the plasma cutter some machines may not feature this filter.
Set the airflow
Adjust the airflow of the plasma cutter in the first place. However, you can also opt for an air compressor for added ease. For that, push inside the compressed air. Compressed air must have a substance like water or oil for even lubrication. The liquid lubrication cleans the pipe and you need to remove the cutting tube and electrode. Now you can turn on the machine and if it takes time, restart it for a smoother start.
The cutting torch
You still need to check out the cutting torch before you use it. For that, ensure that the cutting arc is perpendicular to the cutting table. Its straightness is necessary so that the cutting becomes essential. Also, make sure to keep the torch in place (by fastening) to keep off random cuts. A cool fan is essential to use when you work on the metal for its instant cooling.
Organizing the airflow
Managing the airflow is another important step for plasma cutter setup. For making sure the stream is set at high, you need to connect the external air compressor with the plasma center and set the fittings.
Now retreat from the negative connection of the external flange and enter the positive connection there. Keep the lever to 90-degree to the air pipe and switch on the airflow.
Customize the cutting head height
Rearranging the cutting head pipe is important. Make sure to be steady if you lack efficiency for this step the final results would be titled in the workpiece. For this step, you need to follow the exact guidelines as per the manual as it has the preset cut parameters that lean on each material and its thickness.
Choose the cutting direction
The major part of the workpiece should face in the right direction of the cutting site. The major site of the workpiece is also the heat-affected zone. Keep the metal on the table and secure it with a ground clamp.
Adjust the electrical charges
And finally, make sure the electrical charges are turned off before you plug into electrical charges. Select the current for the current (typically 25 Amp for 18 mm metal). This is it. Congregation! Now you can turn on the plasma cutter for working and cutting.
Conclusion
Setting up the plasma cutter for the first time may appear like a lengthy process but to be honest, it isn’t. All you have to do is to follow the steps by keeping the manual in front of you. But for the recommended approach we recommend you to have an expert near you who keeps a check on your performance.