Metal Processing Operationsrequire the use of special equipment. In the case of thin sheet products, it is quite possible to do with a corresponding hacksaw or even a file, however, thick layers can be cut only if there is an intense impact on the structure of the workpiece. The best solution to this problem can be an apparatus for welding-cutting metal, acting on the principles of plasma-air processing. Externally, these devices resemble classic welding devices, but there are a number of significant differences.
This technique is included in the group of methodstreatments involving thermal effects on the material. That is, in the process of work, the user sends the working head of the device to heat a specific area. A torch device of this type provides for the presence of electrodes and the content of plasma-forming gases — as a rule, compressed air is used. After start-up, the plasma cutting machine starts producing welding currents that heat the electrode. Further, the arc is activated, under the action of which the gas is converted into molten plasma. Depending on the model of the device, the temperature index of this substance can vary from 5,000 to 30,000 ° C.
This principle of processing opens wide boundaries.to use the device. On the one hand, the effectiveness of plasma exposure causes good performance, which is beneficial from the point of view of using equipment at metallurgical plants. On the other hand, metal cutting with a welding machine is distinguished by high precision and accuracy, which is appreciated by craftsmen performing decorative processing of products.
On the market you can find two variations of suchdevices. To use the technology in working with large amounts of blanks, it is recommended to use transformers. This equipment is capable of cutting sheets up to 4 cm thick. The second type is inverters, which are small in size and, accordingly, have modest performance indicators. Anyway, the most widespread are just inverters of plasma-air metal cutting, the advantages of which are expressed not only in compactness. Such devices are also characterized by the stability of the arc, which allows you to perform high-quality cuts in almost any conditions. In addition, the latest models of inverters are not so much inferior to transformers in terms of power. Representatives of the highest level, for example, allow you to cut sheets that are 3 cm thick.
From a user point of view, the main workerThe indicator is current strength. It depends on the ability of the device to cut various types of metal. Correlating the potential of the device and the characteristics of the workpiece, one should rely on the following principle: increasing the current strength increases the arc power and, consequently, the heating intensity. For example, a low-power apparatus for cutting metal with a current of 40 A will make it possible to cope with a sheet with a thickness of 1-1.2 cm. If the power potential is increased to 160 A, then the equipment can also be used to work with 4-cm sheets.
This does not mean that you need to navigate.at maximum performance when choosing. The big power is not useful and even will be excessive if performance of figure cutting is required. If, however, it is not intended to use the device permanently and purposefully for working with specific materials, then it makes sense to purchase an apparatus for cutting metal for universal use. Such models provide the ability to adjust the current, which significantly expands the range of tasks.
Since the processing method involvesensuring that the compressed air supply, then you should initially prepare the compressor. In some models, it is included in the main design, but such equipment has serious power limitations. For regular operation, an optimum configuration using an external compressor will be. Under the condition of a properly organized pneumatic network, such a device for plasma cutting of metal will ensure both high performance and stability of heating during the entire working session.
The initial segment represent mainlydomestic models from the companies "Bars", "Svarog" and "Resanta". These are devices costing 25-30 thousand rubles that cope well with blanks up to 1 cm thick. For more complex processing tasks, you should contact models from the Fubag, Telwin, Blue Weld lines, etc. 50-70 thousand rubles.), However, the user can count on the possibility of forming a cut at a great depth. In addition, the apparatus for cutting high-grade metal will allow you to work with a large number of nozzles, which leads to the versatility of the tool.
Building technologies allow you to performcutting operations of solid materials in different ways. But not all methods can be optimized with the expectation of use by the mass consumer. The closest competition to plasma processing is still the classic cutting disc, which provides mechanical action. However, in comparison with it, thermal working elements are distinguished by accuracy and precision of processing. Recently, the laser cutting machine for metal, which is a structure in the form of a small machine, has been distributed. This technique is characterized by high cutting speed, accuracy and ease of use, but its price is several times higher than the cost of plasma cutters.
Метод обработки посредством термического Impact today is the most popular means for cutting metal. It is not because the tool provides the best performance. It loses to the mentioned laser machines in many parameters and costs more than traditional units with cutting discs. But from the point of view of universality, the plasma apparatus for cutting metal has no competitors. The balance of technical and operational indicators makes it possible to use this tool in everyday life and in industry. In addition, manufacturers complement the line with specialized models that are designed to perform highly professional operations.
