Plasma welding, cutting, and soldering devices have become widespread due to the possibility of performing tasks with high efficiency in a short time. Using them, you can work with almost any metal and electrically conductive materials.
Apparatus for plasma cutting and welding: description
Cutting occurs by melting and mixing the metal with a high-temperature plasma, which is created by an electric arc from an inert substance. So, in the device, atmospheric ionized air is directed through the hole in the burner under pressure in the required amount and is transferred to the plasma state.
The final result and efficiency can be improved by using several types of inert gas, which is especially important for non-ferrous metals. That is why you should be careful when selecting devices and take into account all the parameters.
The choice
The device for plasma cutting and welding is suitable for processing refractory, non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper), ferrous metal (cast iron, stainless steel and options with various alloying), as well as other types of materials. Today, the stores offer an extensive assortment of tools, in order to choose the best option you need to determine the existing tasks and operating conditions. After that, a selection of suitable models is made.
The main criterion is the materials with which the device can work. It is recommended to choose a machine with a wide range of functions and the ability to cut various metals. It should be noted that the cost directly depends on the functionality and popularity of the brand. You also need to pay attention to the size of the cutting thickness. Most often, this parameter is indicated for steel sheets, the least common is the designation for stainless steel. From this information you can understand the cutting capabilities of various options.
Arc ignition
All models are united by an identical work scheme and a common design, while these parameters are the same for any manufacturer. The difference lies in the method of ignition of the arc, the following options are possible here:
- The inclusion of a pilot arc excites the plane of the main element. That is, the pilot arc with low power, which is located on the additional circuit of the plasma torch, is first activated. With the help of compressed air, an arc is formed, it closes on the plane of the material, thereby forming the main arc. An apparatus for plasma cutting and welding with a similar ignition method is the best option for working with a metal crate and mesh.
- High frequency excitation. In this case, the formation of the arc occurs only under the condition of an electric discharge between the plasma torch head and the sheet of material. This technique is the most common today.
- Contact ignition. The arc occurs in contact with the workpiece. Most often you can find on devices of the budget category, characterized by a small current strength. They are characterized by rapid wear of the plasmatron nozzle and its other parts. Currently, manufacturers are increasingly installing other ignition options.
Taking into account the information indicated above, it will be easier to determine the desired model and not be mistaken with the available properties.
Advantages and disadvantages
The apparatus for plasma cutting and welding, the photo of which is presented above, has many positive sides, among which it is worth noting the following:
- Cutting quality is characterized by high accuracy and accuracy. Even with little experience with the relevant work, it is easy to prevent such defects as sagging and burrs on the machined surfaces.
- Security. The probability of fire is minimized in the absence of explosive and flammable gases. Only the manual arc method can provide similar characteristics.
- No deformation of sheets, waves and cracks on metal surfaces.
Some devices are quite expensive, which is the only drawback. In this case, you can always try to choose the option with the right price and the necessary characteristics. To carry out cutting at home, an aggregate with average power characteristics will be quite enough.
“Gorynych”
The Gorynych device, a Russian-made plasma welding and cutting device, is suitable for work involving high-temperature exposure. It can be used both for metals and for other categories of materials not subject to burning. It is an electric arc plasma generator formed by heating an electronic arc. Vapors of the working composition, reaching the ionization temperature, are removed by a plasma jet under pressure. Ethyl alcohol or water can act as a working fluid, the choice of one or another option is carried out in accordance with the tasks. The jet at the same time has a temperature within 6000 degrees. The main elements of the apparatus are the control unit and the plasma generator.
Gorynych, a plasma welding and cutting machine, receives mostly positive reviews. Many users note its high speed and versatility.
“Svarog CUT 40 B”
The device is lightweight and compact in size, its main purpose is to process thin materials. It is based on an inverter circuit and special transistors. The unit is equipped with a Euro connector for the burner and a convenient control panel. In the process, there is no deformation of the material, while it is desirable to cut sheets with a thickness within 0.12 cm.
It has the following principle of operation: the current approaches the plasma torch electrode, the plasma torch itself is ignited by a high-frequency oscillator after pressing a button.
Advantages:
- lack of the possibility of capsizing due to sufficient stability;
- profitability;
- low cost;
- there is no need to create certain working conditions;
- intuitive controls;
- convenient transportation due to a special handle and low weight.
Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the low resource of the plasmatron device.
Rilon CUT 40
This unit, as well as the Gorynych metal plasma welding and metal cutting apparatus, allows you to work with any type of conductive substrates: these are various alloys, galvanized steel, aluminum, copper. Contactless ignition operates on high-frequency control. It can be used for materials with a thickness of about 20 mm, due to the high level of cutting current. The degree of impact depends on the thickness of the workpiece and the characteristics of the metal. Using a digital indicator, the necessary criteria are set.
Advantages:
- used in a wide range of temperatures;
- provides processing of any alloys and materials;
- based on modern technology;
- differs in high speed of cutting and high-quality formation of a seam;
- no deformation of the workpiece.
It is worth noting that the device is not suitable for industrial conditions and active use.
BRIMA CUT-120
The device for plasma cutting and welding is characterized by a small mass of the main transformer and compact dimensions, while it is optimally suited for use in the dismantling of metal structures. It is used for work with copper, non-ferrous metal, carbon and stainless steel with a thickness of not more than 35 mm. Consists of a gas reducer, a return power wire and an air sleeve.
Advantages:
- profitability;
- gradual change of the main process parameters;
- high-quality heat removal due to the presence of many holes in the housing;
- the ability to adjust the arc;
- effective material cutting;
- easy and clean processing of metal elements with a large thickness;
- high speed of work.
FUBAG PLASMA 40
The device for plasma cutting and welding is suitable for any conductive materials with a thickness of not more than 12 mm. Consumables, such as cathode and nozzle, have a long period of use. Arc ignition has a high-frequency control.
Positive sides:
- provides quick cutting of workpieces;
- it is possible to connect to a standard 220 V network, which expands the scope of use and simplifies operation;
- quite reliable cutter;
- a high-quality seam without sagging is formed.