The Hypertherm Powermax 45XP is a favorite among welders and fabricators. Check it out here: https://www.gowelders.com/shop/powermax45-xp-system-480v-3-ph-csa-75-handheld-torch-w-consumables-6-1m-20-lead/.
You may recall from science class, the other states of matter—solid, liquid, and gas. Plasma is known as the “fourth” state of matter. For a substance to change form, heat must flow in or out of it. Take ice for example: If you continually add heat energy, it will go from a solid (ice), to a liquid (water), to a gas (steam). Plasma forms when a gas such as oxygen, argon, or nitrogen reaches an extremely high temperature (55,000 degrees).
System Options
Plasma systems come in handheld and mechanized options. The job at hand will determine which system to use. Handheld systems are air cooled and can cut up to 2-inch plate, depending on which machine you are using. High amperage mechanized systems are water cooled and can cut over 6-inch plate.
Industry Uses
Welding professionals use plasma cutters in a variety of different industries. Applications include general fabrication and manufacturing, facility and equipment maintenance, steel construction, shipbuilding, vehicle repair, offshore rigs, pipelines, and many more.
FUN FACT: Lighting is a form of plasma!
Types of Cuts
- Bevel
- Marking
- Piercing
- Cutting
- Gouging
System Components
- Power Source
- Torch
- Consumables
- Grounding clamp
