Plasma Welding & Cutting
Like TIG welding, the arc in plasma welding and cutting is generated between a non-consumed electrode (typically tungsten) and the workpiece. The electrode tip, however, is positioned within the body of the torch and a plasma gas (separate from the shielding gas) is pumped around the tip through a fine bore inner nozzle. The arc is constricted by the plasma flow and therefore a high energy concentration is achieved with relatively low currents.
The high energy concentration and the high speed flow of plasma out of the nozzle makes it possible to cut through metal using the plasma arc - melting just a small area and then blowing out the molten metal. With lower currents and a filler material, the technique can also be used for welding.
For plasma welding, filler material may be added either with a wire or as a powder, in the plasma gas stream.
Plasma Advantages
- Welding can be achieved with relatively low currents.
- The high energy concentration causes deep weld penetration into the workpiece.
- Ideal for cutting through metal.
- Less distortion than other methods, due to the narrow heat bead.
- Filler material can be delivered as a powder through the plasma gas stream.
Plasma Disadvantages
- A separate filler material must be used if additional material is required.
- Plasma torches need to be bulky, making them awkward for precision manual use.
- For welding, a careful balance of current, plasma gas flow and filler control is required.
Olympus can supply Plasma welding & Plasma cutting machines, Dinse plasma welding systems and robot welding & cutting systems.