29Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Plasma Cutting Guide
Plasma System Gas Supply
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Plasma System Gas
Supply
Plasma System Gas/Air Supply
Proper gas or air supply for the plasma cutting process is critical to achieving precise,
consistent cuts in material as well as for maximizing the life of the consumables and Torch.
Plasma systems use pressurized gas/air to create the plasma jet, initiate the arc and maintain
the plasma jet during the cutting process, as well as to cool the unit after cutting. For the
Powermax45, Hypertherm recommends a gas/air supply that can maintain 6 cfm at 90 psi. For
larger machines such as the Powermax65 and Powermax85, these number may vary slightly
for extended periods. This can be a challenge.
It is important to note that an air compressor may have a manufacturer rating of 6 cfm at 90
extended use. For example, approximate pressure loss for a 100 ft. run of ½ in. pipe at 100
the compressor outlet, a plasma unit at the end of that 100-foot run would only see 56 psi. To
Some simple rules to follow include:
• Use as short a line as possible between the compressor and the plasma unit.
•
• If the compressor can handle it, raise the pressure and use a larger line to the
plasma unit, then control the pressure at the plasma unit with a secondary
pressure regulator.
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