Key Characteristics of Laser Cutting

Key Characteristics of Laser Cutting:

• Precision: Capable of cutting with tolerances as tight as ±0.1 mm.

• Edge Quality: Produces smooth, clean edges that often require no further finishing.

• Versatility: Suitable for cutting a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, wood, and glass (depending on the laser type).

• Minimal Heat-Affected Zone: The focused beam minimizes thermal distortion of the surrounding material.

Plasma Cutting Working Principle:

Plasma cutting is a process that cuts through electrically conductive materials using a jet of hot plasma. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how plasma cutting works:

1. Power Supply and Gas: A plasma cutter uses a power supply to generate a direct current (DC) arc and a gas supply (usually compressed air, nitrogen, or oxygen) that will form the plasma.

2. Arc Initiation: The plasma cutter starts an arc between an electrode (situated in the torch) and the workpiece. This can be initiated by:

   • Contact Start: Touching the torch tip to the workpiece to complete the circuit.

   • High-Frequency Start: Using a high-voltage, high-frequency circuit to ionize the gas without contact.

3. Plasma Formation: The gas is forced through a narrow nozzle inside the torch at high speed. As the gas passes through the electrical arc, it becomes ionized, transforming into plasma—a hot, electrically conductive gas.

4. Material Melting and Removal:

   • Melting: The plasma reaches temperatures up to 30,000℃ (54,000℉), instantly melting the metal at the point of contact.

   • Blowing Away Molten Metal: The high-velocity plasma stream blows the molten metal away from the cut, creating a kerf.

5. Cutting Torch Movement: Similar to laser cutting, CNC systems control the movement of the plasma torch to follow the desired cutting path accurately.

For high-quality laser and plasma cutting systems, explore AccTek CNC.