Plasma cutting performance 1

[bpeirson]

I was reviewing the specs on an ESAB PowerCut 1500 Plasmarc. The capacity is noted as 1 1/2" Manual and 3/4" mechanized.

Why would the performance be cut in half when using a machine torch rather than a hand torch.

If it's a typo then they (ESAB) have the same typo for all Powercut units.

 

[Goahead]

You may wish to check the following article on Plasma Cutting at

http://www.lincolnelectric.com/knowledge/articles/content/plasma.asp

Why not asking ESAB directly?

http://www.welding-advisers.com/

 

[bpeirson]

Thanks for the article, I'll read it in full tonight.

I didn't ask ESAB because:

-It is often difficult to get answers for questions which don't generate an imediate sale.
-I felt that this forum would respond quicker.
-I wondered if this was common for other manufacturers as well. (i.e. the extra long whip forces a reduction in amperage due to typical line loss)

 

[Goahead]

I asked ESAB myself and this is the answer as follows, I got on January 2, from a representative, Mr/Ms B. Fernicola:

"Plasma machines that can handle both manual and mechanized tasks usually have a lower thickness rating for mechanized cutting rather than manual. This is for several reasons.

1 - Starting and ending the cut on materials close to the maximum thickness properly requires some operator technique that is easy for a human operator but difficult or impossible to program into a machine. Hence a lower rating for satisfactory cuts.

2 - Mechanized cutting requires piercing in most cases rather than edge starts. A machine generally can not pierce sucessfully as thick as it can cut.

3 - Customers using a machine in an automated set up would generally find the cut speeds on the thickest materials too slow to be acceptable for mechanized operation."

Hoping this satisfies your curiosity.

http://www.welding-advisers.com/