Metal cutting often proves challenging because the material is durable and difficult to cut through. Hypertherm plasma cutters can make short work of industrial fabrication with precision cuts, but what else can you use these machines for? 

In this post, our team at Cyrious Metal Work looks at plasma cutter uses. Since these cover many industries, from metal art and sheet metal shaping to automotive repairs, we’ll focus on the most common types. 

Common Plasma Cutting Applications

Let’s see what most people use these powerful machines for. 

Metal Fabrication

The most common use for plasma cutters is metal cutting. You can cut any material that conducts electricity, such as stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. You can use the machines to cut simple metal plates or intricate designs. 

Industrial Applications

The primary plasma cutter uses in industrial settings are cutting and welding. They’re particularly useful in the following areas:

• Automotive
• Aerospace
• Ship-building

These machines can cut stainless steel a few inches thick. 

Construction

In the building industry, we use plasma cutters to cut structural elements like pipes and beams. You might also use it to create gates, roofs, and other panels. 

Plumbing

Plumbers use plasma cutters to cut piping and shape fixtures. It’s especially important to use high-precision options when it comes to copper pipes. Considering how expensive these materials are, it’s nice to have a low-wastage cutting method. 

Metal Art

Artists take full advantage of the raw power of this technology. They can make jagged, raw cuts or replicate delicate designs. The cutting capacity of these machines makes it easy to cut through many types of metal, which means the artist can explore new materials with ease. 

DIY and Home Applications

Your typical home DIYer probably doesn’t need a plasma cutter unless they plan to do a lot of renovation. However, it’s useful to cut metal panels for roofing or siding. The machines are also useful when making gates and fences. 

The Advantages of Plasma Cutting

Plasma cutters are one of the best options for metalwork because they offer: 

• Precise cuts: When you use a plasma cutter properly, it’ll cut cleanly and smoothly. There’s minimal slag, which is useful for intricate design work. 
• Fast cutting: Plasma cutters are high-powered machines that can cut through metal like a hot knife through butter. 
• Versatility: You can cut through metals of various types and thicknesses. You can also feed designs into the system to cut perfectly.  There are portable machines for a home workshop and large industrial models. 
• Minimal heat-affected zone: Plasma cutters superheat the area they’re cutting. This heat doesn’t transfer far off this path, so there’s less chance of distortion and warping.
• Makes clean cuts: The machine produces very little waste, making clean-up incredibly simple. This aids in providing a professional finish. 

Contact Us for More Information About Plasma Cutting Equipment

Are you thinking about upgrading your workshop? Do you have questions like, “Can plasma cut fence panels?” Our Cyrious Metal Works team has the answers. If you’re ready to learn more about plasma cutter uses or buy one for yourself, call us at 903-345-1841.