This industrial cutting technology utilizes a precisely controlled electrical arc constricted through a fine nozzle to generate extremely high temperatures, ionizing a gas to create plasma. This plasma stream is then directed at a workpiece, melting the material in a concentrated area. The resulting molten material is expelled by the force of the plasma jet and auxiliary gas. This process allows for exceptionally clean and accurate cuts, particularly in metal fabrication applications.
The technique offers significant advantages over traditional cutting methods. These include increased cutting speed, improved edge quality, and the ability to cut a wider range of materials and thicknesses. Its development has significantly impacted manufacturing processes, enabling more efficient production and higher precision in finished products. From its origins as an alternative to oxy-fuel cutting, it has evolved to become a critical tool in industries demanding tight tolerances and complex geometries.
