Why Does My Plasma Cutter Sputter?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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One common plasma nozzle problem occurs when

the orifice becomes blocked

, sometimes due to molten material contacting the tip and then cooling down and hardening there, altering the plasma flow. An off-center stream will steadily wear down the orifice.

When should a plasma cutter consumable be changed?

As you use the electrode, the hafnium/tungsten becomes molten and pieces of it start to blow out through the nozzle as you cut. It develops a pit at the front of the electrode.

Once that pit depth is over 1⁄32

, it’s time to change the consumable.

What air pressure is required for plasma cutting?

For the majority of the Everlast product line, air pressure required to operate the torches is anywhere

between 55 to 70 psi

. Low amperage cuts will require less air pressure for more stable operation, sometimes down to 45 psi or so, or the arc will be blown out.

How can I improve the quality of my plasma cut?

  1. Air Quality – Having clean, dry, oil free air is a must. …
  2. Torch Height – Both for pierce and cut, ensuring that the machine maintains the correct height at all times is critical.
  3. Cut Direction – Ya that’s a thing.

Why is my plasma cutter not cutting?

The compressor is short of air. The pressure adjustment of air conditioning valve of the plasma cutting machine

is too low

.

There is oil pollution

in the electromagnetic valve. The air channel is obstructed.

How long does a plasma cutter tip last?

How long does a plasma cutter tip last? Plasma parts should be replaced

every 3-4 weeks

.

Do plasma cutters wear out?

Plasma cutter consumables are a set of components in your plasma cutter that

gradually wear over time until they need to be replaced

: they have a life cycle.

Do you need a compressor for a plasma cutter?

Plasma cutters need air pressure to cut in a two-stage process. … Therefore, all plasma cutters need

an air compressor to generate enough air pressure for

the task. If you buy a plasma cutter without a built-in source of air, you’ll need a separate air compressor.

What kind of eye protection is needed for a plasma cutter?

Safety glasses with

yellow lenses

are recommended to block potentially damaging blue light, and a secondary shield between the operator and the cutting torch, perhaps a welding curtain or dark plastic shield, could shade the operator from the most damaging radiation.

How thick can a 30 amp plasma cutter cut?

Designed for portable repair work and small business project use, CUT-30 Plasma Cutter cuts a thickness of

3/8 in.

, and the max severance thickness is 1/2 in., Specifications: Type: DC Air Plasma Cutter, Supply Power: 115V/230V/60Hz/1-Phase, Rated Input Current: AC-115V/30A & AC-230V/15A, Cutter Current Range: AC-115V …

Why does my plasma cutter cut on an angle?

This problem can be caused by a worn nozzle, high torch standoff (arc voltage),

excessive amperage

, inadequate gas flow, or low speed. Each of these variables will cause the arc column to grow, widening the kerf. An incorrect (small) kerf compensation value will also cause an undersized part.

How thick of steel can a plasma cutter cut?

Plasma cutters are used to perform cutting and gouging operations, with the average hand-held system capable of cutting a maximum metal thickness of

about 1 inch

. Plasma typically requires a source for compressed air and a substantial amount of electrical power.

What do you wear when using a plasma cutter?

Proper plasma safety requires protecting your eyes, face, and your exposed skin. You need to shield your eyes and face with proper

plasma cutting glasses, goggles, and/or helmet

. You also need to wear a welding gloves, welding jacket, or any clothing that is flame-resistant just like denim.

What does the OC light mean on a plasma cutter?

The OC light is

“Over Current”

and takes inputs from approx 5 sources and cuts the machine off with a 10 sec reset in the circuit. Essentially the internals of these Chinese Plasma Cutters are the same and the faults are similar on all of them and are usually not substantial.

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.