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Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing a top-end plasma system for mechanised cutting.
It is used on cutting tables, gantries, bevel heads, pipe cutters and robotic cells that need to cut thick plate quickly and repeatably. The mechanised torch holds a steady height and speed, giving more consistent edges than hand cutting.It suits steel fabricators, heavy engineering and contract cutters. If you only cut a few parts by eye, a hand system may be simpler.
A machine plasma system usually has a control connection for the table or robot controller. It lets the controller start and stop the arc and receive signals such as arc transfer. Many systems can also supply a reduced arc voltage signal for a height controller, and some have a serial or network connection for digital control and status information. Some provide remote on/off.The connections and signals provided differ between makers and models, so check the manual for your machine and confirm that your controller expects the same signals and cables before you buy.
A height controller reads the arc voltage and raises or lowers the torch to keep a constant gap between torch and plate. This keeps cut quality and bevel angle consistent as plate warps, and extends consumable life.It needs a stable voltage signal from the plasma system, so check that your system and controller support each other, and test on scrap plate first.
Edge quality depends on current, travel speed, stand-off height, consumable condition and air quality. Use the maker's cut chart as a starting point, then adjust on scrap plate. Slow speeds leave dross and fast speeds leave it trailing behind.Remember that plasma edges have a natural slight angle, and worn consumables make it worse. Replace them early.