A plasma cutter is a device that uses high-voltage electricity to create an electric arc through the air. This creates a plasma, which quickly reaches temperatures of more than 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit and cuts through metal with ease. It’s used in both industry and home settings for cutting sheet steel, pipe, or other metals.
How does it work?
A plasma cutter works by using compressed air to propel the tip of the torch across the material at speeds up to 16 feet per second (5 meters per second). The electrical arc then melts through metal objects as well as dissipates the heat created by the process into surrounding materials such as water or sand.
Read more: Best Plasma Cutters under $300
Advantages of Plasma Cutter
Plasma cutting is a fast way to cut through metal. It can cut complicated shapes and achieve smooth edges on any material thickness. The plasma cutting process also leaves surfaces of the material much smoother than say, sawing or grinding would, which in turn decreases wear and tear on parts after finishing a project.
- With a plasma cutter, you can cut through any material.
- It is environmentally friendly because it does not make use of flames or chemicals
- The blade holds its edges much longer than other blades do, so it will last a lot longer
- They are very safe to operate.
- A plasma cutter will save you hours of your own time that would be spent cutting out shapes by hand!
- With a gas-powered/air compressor model, you won’t need an outlet for this extremely handy tool because it runs off its own fuel source and always has plenty in reserve (yep even when there’s no electricity).
Related article: Best Plasma Cutters with Built In Compressor
Disadvantages of Plasma cutter
1. The noise is one of the biggest downsides to owning a plasma cutter, but it’s worth it for all the other perks you get from having it around!
2. It costs quite a bit of money – If you’re on a budget, this tool might not be for you. However, if you’re looking to save time on your projects and be more efficient, it’ll definitely pay for itself in a few uses.
3. They’re not handheld– These things are heavy and they take up space on the worktable or shelf that you need to have cleared off, so make sure you’re ready to invest some time and energy into using them before you start cutting!
4. You have to be a little bit careful– If you’re not used to using one of these, treat it just like you would any other power tool, and make sure you know what you’re doing before you start working with it!
