There are many equipment and technology options in the metal fabrication industry. When it comes to cutting metal, options include Fiber Lasers, CO2 lasers, and Waterjets. There is also one classic method that dates back decades: Plasma Cutting Technology. While fiber lasers are known for power and speed, plasma cutting machines have secured their place at the table for cut quality, versatility, cost efficiency, and productivity.

How do you know if plasma cutting is right for your shop?

Many fabricators find that plasma cutting machines are a great fit for their business. As with any investment decision, there is a lot to consider when choosing equipment for metal cutting. You’ll want to look at the type of work and volume you do, types of materials you process and of course, your budget.

If you answer yes to these next few questions, plasma cutting might just be the right technology for you!

Do you cut a variety of materials?

Plasma cutting works by using a high-velocity jet of hot plasma (ionized gas) through electrically conductive metals, creating an electric arc with enough heat to melt the metal sheet. This method works for almost all electrically conductive materials, including:

• Steel
• Aluminum
• Copper
• Brass, etc.

This allows you to effectively process a variety of materials. If that’s important to your business, this is an incredible advantage.

Do you cut thick materials?

One of the top strengths of plasma cutting machines is their precision in cutting thicker materials. If you often cut materials like ⅜” steel and thicker, in lower volumes, plasma technology is a great choice.

Is cost a factor in your decision?

No matter the size of your business, fabricators are always looking to the bottom line. A key benefit of plasma cutting technology is the low upfront cost of equipment. In fact, you can acquire a plasma cutting machine for half the price of a fiber laser or less. That’s major savings you can’t ignore.

There’s no doubt plasma cutting has evolved since it’s early technology in the 1960s. Since then, it has become a great alternative to other popular metal cutting equipment choices. At the end of the day, depending on your business and the type of cuts you process, if you want to get the job done well for less – way less – then plasma cutting machines may be a fit.

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