To choose which best Plasma Cut or Torch? Although it may seem strange, especially to those who are unaware of the subject and may not know the difference between them. The comparison is not as simple as some may think.
The blowtorch
(oxyacetylene) is the oldest cutting process that exists. It uses a
high-temperature heat source, which comes from burning a fuel (Acetylene with
Oxygen), usually with a torch to heat and cut the metal. Then, oxygen is
transferred to the metal, burning it as a metal oxide. Meanwhile, plasma
cutting cuts the conductive material using a plasma jet and an electrical
charge.
This makes a choice
between the two dependent on the exact work that needs to be done and the
things important to how you want the job to be completed.
This means that a
final verdict for this debate may not be possible, as there are pros and cons
to each one.
Pros and cons of plasma cutting
Plasma cutters are the
kings of pure and simple.cut with a plasma cutter is much more accurate and
leaves as little mess (or dross) as possible. When you a cut with a plasma
cutter, there is not much cleanliness in the cut.
Cutting power
The main disadvantage
of plasma cutting is that it struggles to handle materials over two inches thick,
but for cleanliness and accuracy, it cannot be beaten.
Plasma may be
accurate, but oxyacetylene is by far the most powerful cutting system. The
plasma can cut materials up to a few centimetres, oxy-fuel can cut materials up
to two feet thick. When it comes to power, it doesn't even come close.
Obviously, the disadvantage of this increase in power is that oxy-fuel cuts are
dirtier and require much more cleaning.
Variety of Materials
In addition, if you
need to work with aluminium or stainless steel, plasma is your only option.
Final thoughts
I believe that now you
know your answer as to which best plasma or torch cut? The oxyacetylene torch
has been around for a long time and has been used successfully for generations
for large and small jobs. Plasma, on the other option, is a very recent
invention, actually being widely spread over the past 20 years.
You need the power of
oxy-fuel Unless, and you may be surprised at the quality and performance that
the plasma cutter has to offer.
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