Комаров Артём о высокоточной плазменной резке (eng)
Комаров Артём о высокоточной плазменной резке (eng)

Комаров Артём о высокоточной плазменной резке (eng)

Today’s high-precision plasma cutting means faster cuts, higher-quality edges, and longer-lasting consumables than the first generation of precision plasma cutting technologies, Artem Komarov explained.

Выступление Комарова Артёма Андреевича

Today, manufacturers use the best of all possible cutting methods.

The high-precision plasma system concentrates more power in a smaller area, and the increased plasma density provides precise cuts with tighter kerfs, less top edge rounding and less bevel. To appreciate the evolution of plasma technology, keep in mind that even modern simulation methodologies cannot fully and efficiently simulate the behavior of a plasma arc without significant simplification of assumptions. Plasma cutting has certainly evolved since its birth in the laboratory to become a productive production tool that plays a key role in the success of many manufacturers.

High Precision Cutting

The high-precision plasma system concentrates the arc energy into a small area, effectively creating a sharper cutting tool.

Precise torch height adjustment also controls electrode wear and cut accuracy to a large extent. The height adjustment depends on the arc voltage, which is directly proportional to the distance between the electrode tip and the plate. However, as the electrode wears, the arc becomes longer. As the electrode wears, applying voltage gradually brings the torch closer to the plate, thereby maintaining a constant kerf and cut quality.

When assembling an automated plasma system, a metal fabricator should not skimp on the height controller, torch lifter, and associated drives and motors. If the torch height varies, the cut quality varies from part to part and even within the same part. At a minimum, the manufacturer should use a controller with puncture height adjustment, puncture delay, and puncture retraction. These features extend consumable life by reducing electrode wear during arc start and stop, and by minimizing the amount of molten metal that is spattered during arc start.

Automatic gas consoles also extend the life of the electrodes. Both insufficient and excess plasma gas flow disrupts the movement of the pool of molten hafnium instead of keeping it centered. In addition, abrupt changes in gas flow led to arc instability, which, in turn, can lead to immediate damage to consumables (not to mention a decrease in cut quality), Artem Komarov emphasized.

 

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