Kit plasma cnc

Types of CNC Plasma Cutters Kits

A CNC plasma cutter kit is a set of equipment and components used for computer numerical control (CNC) plasma cutting. It enables automated cutting of various materials with a plasma torch controlled by a computer or software. Several types of CNC plasma cutter kits are available for different purposes.

• CNC benchtop Plasma Cutter Kits

  Benchtop CNC plasma cutter kits are small-sized devices suitable for placement on a workbench or tabletop. These kits typically come with a compact cutting table or gantry system that allows users to cut materials of limited width and length. Benchtop CNC plasma cutter kits are often designed for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, or small-scale workshops with limited floor space.

• CNC Desktop Plasma Cutter Kits

  Like the benchtop Plasma cutter kits, the desktop devices are even smaller and are designed to fit on a standard desktop. They are the smallest Plasma cutter available and are suitable for extremely small and low-budget cutting requirements. These kits may not provide the same capabilities as larger CNC plasma cutters but can handle light-duty cutting tasks on thin materials.

• CNC Gantry Plasma Cutter Kits

  A gantry system is one where the cutting tool is attached to a frame that moves horizontally over the workpiece. This setup enables the cutting of large sheets of metal with high precision. Gantry-style CNC plasma cutter kits are commonly used for cutting large metal plates or sheets in industrial and manufacturing settings. Gantry plasma cutters generally offer high cutting speeds and accuracy, making them suitable for heavy-duty cutting applications.

• Hand-Held CNC Plasma Cutter Kits

  Handheld CNC plasma cutter kits are designed to be operated with hand-held torches rather than automated torch holders. These kits typically include a guiding system and variables like speed regulation and depth control. Handheld CNC plasma cutters are suitable when precision cutting or multiple cuts are required. They are also more affordable than other plasma cutter kits.

Specification and Maintenance

• Plasma cutter wattage: A plasma cutter with a higher wattage generates more heat and usually has a bigger cutting capacity. The voltage of a plasma cutter is an important factor that determines what metal can be cut and the thickness range. Typical plasma cutter wattages vary between 20 and 50.
• Compatible CNC system: This includes software for designing the cut (CAD software) and system for controlling the cut (CNC control software). The plasma cutter must be able to interface with the same CNC system as the plasma cutting table.
• Cutting speed: The speed at which the cutter can move while making the cut is determined by the power of the cutter and the thickness of the metal. This may vary between 0.3 and 1.5 meters/min. If the cutting speed is too slow for the type of metal, the cutter may overheat and damage the metal.
• Cutting type: The type of cuts that a plasma cutter can make includes straight cuts, bevel cuts, or intricate cuts. The ability to make any one of these types of cuts will depend on the plasma cutter design and features.
• Cutting capacity: This refers to the maximum thickness of metal plates and diameter of the metal pipes the plasma cutter can cut. Cutting capacity varies between plasma cutters.
• Quality of cuts: A plasma cutter will automatically give a certain roughness level on the edges of the cut metal. It depends on the design of the cutter and the type of cutter used. The CNC system must be able to handle the cut in its workflow.
• Torch and consumables: The plasma cutting torch is a vital part of the CNC plasma cutter kit. In addition to the torch itself, the kit also includes consumables like the electrode and nozzle.

Maintenance

The CNC plasma cutting machine requires regular maintenance of its key parts to ensure it works properly and for a long time. It is important to always check if the parts are compatible with the specific plasma cutter model being used.

• Cutting torch: Regular inspection and cleaning of the plasma torch helps avoid frequent replacement. Users should remove the torch and check it for damage. If any parts have burning marks or blockages, they should be cleaned or replaced with a new one.
• Cutting table: All dust and debris must be removed from the table throughout the day and after every shift. This will prevent any build-up of material that will affect the table's cutting quality. Users should keep the water level at the proper level while also keeping the table clean.
• Vacuum pump and air compressor: Regular maintenance of these parts helps remove impurities from the plasma cutter's arc. They also aid in the cooling of the cutting torch. Routine checks should be done to ensure all electrical connections are tight. The air pipes should be inspected for leaks. Vibration and noise levels should be checked to see if they are within the recommended limits.

Uses of a CNC plasma cutting machine

The CNC plasma cutting machine is utilized for cutting metal of varying thicknesses. Its uses can be categorized into industry-wide applications and specific usage scenarios.

• Product and vehicle manufacturing: The plasma cutter machine makes metal parts and frames in product and vehicle manufacturing. These include body frames, interior framework, pipeline systems, and chassis.
• Architecture and construction: In the architectural and construction industries, the CNC plasma cutter is used to cut through architectural metals. These include metal sheets, facades, and panels. The details of metal parts can be precisely cut to create complex shapes. This allows builders and architects to realize their ideas.
• Aircraft and aerospace: In the aerospace industry, precision is crucial. Plasma cutting machines are therefore used to produce aerospace parts and aircraft frames. These are typically made with aluminum or stainless steel alloys. The plasma cutter's high accuracy enables easy creation of holes, notches, and contours on the materials.
• Metal furniture and equipment fabrication: A plasma cutter is commonly used to make metal furniture, gates, and decorative pieces. It cuts intricate designs on metal sheets precisely. It also makes assembly and mounting holes on the workpieces effortlessly.
• Pipe and plate cutting services: CNC plasma cutting services are widely available for pipeline and plate cutting. The customer usually sends the service provider the CAD file. Then, the service provider will use the CNC plasma cutter to cut the workpiece per the customer's request.
• Automotive industry: In the auto industry, the CNC plasma cutter machine creates auto body parts, frames, and interiors. It also cuts openings on vehicle parts (like the ones used for HVAC) and makes space for assemblies.
• Die and mold making: Plasma cutting is widely used to make dies and molds. This is because the machine can cut through hard metals like alloy steel and chromium steel. It allows a speedy and simple production of molds and stamping dies.
• Signage and art creation: The material to be worked on when creating art is often metal. Therefore, CNC plasma cutting can easily cut metal and create sculptures and light boxes.

How to choose a CNC plasma cutting machine kit

When buying a plasma cutter CNC kit, buyers should purchase ones compatible with their existing systems. Ensure the kit will work with the machinery already in place to avoid extra expenses on new equipment. Moreover, invest in a system that owners and operators can easily learn and use. An easy-to-understand manual and intuitive controls can minimize training time and help get everyone up to speed faster. Look for a plasma cutter with software that can perform desired tasks and cutting requirements. It should also have features that can be customized to fit specific needs.

Consider a plasma cutter with quality construction designed to last a long time. To prevent unexpected repairs and downtime, ensure that maintenance requirements are manageable and the service provider is readily available. Check if the plasma cutter has safety features to prevent accidental injuries. Evaluate how scalable the plasma cutter is. It should adapt as the company grows or its needs change. New software or hardware upgrades should be easily and affordably added in the future.

Avoid overspending on features and capabilities that are unnecessary for the present application. Focus on essential aspects that fulfill current plasma cutting requirements. Lastly, consider the cost of the plasma kit. This will include the operational and maintenance expenses like those related to consumables, electricity, and replacement parts.

Q&A

Q1. How does a CNC plasma cutting kit work?

A1. The plasma cutting machine kit works by using an electric arc and ionized gas, also known as plasma, to cut through metal materials. It begins by creating a small pilot arc between the electrode and the plasma gas. As the pilot arc heats the air surrounding it, the air becomes ionized and expands into plasma. The plasma arc then moves through the torch nozzle and directs a high-temperature heat stream to the metal workpiece, which initiates the cutting process.

Q2. What materials can a plasma CNC cutter cut?

A2. Generally, plasma cutters are suitable for various metal materials. They can cut ferrous metals such as steel and iron, non-ferrous metals like aluminum, copper, titanium, brass, alloy, and even stainless steel. Apart from metals, certain types of plasma arcs can cut other materials, such as ceramics, plastics, and composites.

Q3. How thick of metal can a plasma cutter cut?

A3. Plasma cutters can cut metal of various thicknesses. The thickness a plasma cutter can handle depends on the type, size, power output, and input voltage of the cutter. The plasma cutter also has to be matched with the material's thickness and size. For example, handheld plasma cutters are suitable for cutting metal sheets of up to 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) thick. In comparison, a high-definition CNC plasma cutter can cut up to 2 inches (50.8 mm) or more.

Q4. What is the advantage of a plasma cutter?

A4. The plasma cutter offers several advantages. First, it provides fast cutting speeds on thin to medium thickness materials. Second, plasma cutting produces a relatively smooth cut. Third, it gives high-cut precision and accuracy, especially when using a CNC plasma cutter. It also allows cutting of various types of material with different thicknesses. Finally, no extensive preparation is needed for cutting; the plasma cutter can cut metal directly, even with rust, paint, or grease.