Plasma cutting is one of the most accurate, versatile metal processing techniques in the industry, giving technicians the ability to create almost any shape imaginable. Unlike other processes, which rely on friction or lasers, plasma cutters use a jet of gas and an electrical arc to cut thick steel or aluminum. This advanced technology offers some substantial benefits over oxygen-acetylene torches and other traditional methods.

How Does Plasma Cutting Benefit Metal Processing?

1. Unmatched Versatility

Because it uses an arc of electricity, plasma cutting can be used to shape any conductive metal. In addition to steel and aluminum, it can also be implemented when fabricating parts made of iron, copper, or brass. This makes it one of the most versatile methods on the market, ideal for an almost limitless range of applications.

2. Faster Cuts

Plasma can cut through thick metal parts at nearly twice the speed of traditional oxygen-acetylene torches. This process drastically increases production rates, which translates to lower costs for machine shops and their customers.

3. Ease of Use

Compared to traditional cutting methods, plasma tools are remarkably easy to use. In fact, most can be operated by a single person and easily transported from project to project. Simpler production also generates cost savings, which many shops pass on to their customers.

4. Cleaner Cuts

The gas jet employed in plasma cutting blasts away dross and debris, leaving behind a cleaner cut than torches or other metal processing tools. Not only does this make plasma cutting ideal for smaller parts with intricate shapes, but the edges also won’t have to be sanded or ground. The precision of plasma results in less industrial waste and greater uniformity between parts.

With facilities in Cincinnati and Lexington, KY, American Metal Supply provides raw materials and metal processing services to builders and manufacturers throughout the region. They pride themselves on offering scalable services and having the capacity to meet almost any need. Visit their website for more on their metal processing services. To contact their office in Lexington, call (502) 634-4321. Dial (513) 396-6600 to speak to a team member in Cincinnati.