Plasma cutting machines are very common in the modern world. The machines are popularly used to cut aluminium, steel and other non ferrous materials. The cutting machines use ionized gas moving at very high speeds to cut sheet metal into various shapes, sizes and thickness. The ionized gas is delivered via a nozzle which in turn heats the metal sheets to be cut. The machine also produces a spark from electricity which charges the highly pressurized and ionized gas into plasma. The plasma is very hot hence produces quick and smooth results. The metal industry and related sectors are the main users of these cutting machines.

The cutting machines are very popular with both novice as well as experienced workers. This is attributed to the ease and efficiency of using the cutting machines. Before going out to purchase a cutting machine, it is important to ascertain the thickness of the metal sheets to be cut. If the metal to be cut is of high gauge or thickness, it is then important to buy a plasma cutting machine that also comes in high amperage. The amperes depict the amount of heat intensity that will be produced. A machine with high amperes will cut thicker metal more easily as compared to a machine with low amperes. Machines with low amperage are generally used to cut thin sheets of metal.

The speed of Plasma cutting machines is the next thing to consider before buying a cutting machine. Faster speeds mean that more work can be done hence improving productivity. Again, the amperage will influence the speed at which the plasma machine cuts. A cutting machine with high amperage will cut through metal sheets and other ferrous materials much faster than a machine with low amperes. Both low and high speed cutting machines will have almost similar speeds on thin sheets of metal. However, using a plasma machine with very high speed to cut thin pieces of sheet metal will produce less than satisfactory cuts.

Cutting machines that use plasma always produce electrical interference while in operation. Though, the impacts are minimal, it is always advisable to make sure that electrical equipment nearby are safe and secure. The best way of doing this, is by considering the plasma machine’s pilot arc. The pilot arc is the space between the machine and the cutting tool. A lesser pilot arc is always preferred. This interference will usually be experienced when starting the machine. The high frequency will affect gadgets such as computers and other electronic devices. Choosing a cutting machine that uses a starting method that produces low frequency is always a better option.

When searching for plasma cutting machines, it is highly recommended to deal with companies that allow a customer test the machines before buying. This allows a customer familiarize with the machine. Test runs will enable the potential customer determine the right type of cutting machine for the intended work. A customer should test different types of sheet metal and also various machines. At the end of it, the customer would have gained enough knowledge hence making an informed decision.