If you’re in the business of metal fabrication, you know that having the right tools is crucial. And when it comes to plasma cutting, having a top-of-the-line machine can make all the difference. But did you know that upgrading your plasma cutting machine with accessories can take your metal cutting game to the next level?
From specialized torches to advanced cutting heads, various accessories can make a significant difference in the performance of your plasma cutting machine. Investing in them now will save you time and money in the long run. Plus, the right accessories will add value and decrease setup costs for your shop.
So, what accessories offer a huge payback? Here’s a list of them with a description of how each tool expands the capability of the plasma machine:
Oxy-fuel Torches
Adding oxy-fuel cutting torches to your CNC plasma cutting table can unlock new cutting capabilities for thicker materials up to six inches. These torches work by combining gaseous fuel and oxygen to create a high-temperature flame that melts the metal, allowing for a more precise and controlled cut. This upgrade is both affordable and easy to add to your machine, making it a practical choice for expanding your cutting thickness capacity.
Other Plasma Power Sources
Upgrading the power source of your plasma-cutting machine can enhance its cutting capabilities and improve the quality of the cuts produced. For example, you can add two or more power sources to your machine to increase your machine’s capacity by a factor of two or more.
While both heads do not need to be utilized at the same time, leveraging them simultaneously can give you a competitive edge by producing two parts for everyone made by your competitors.
Another option is to upgrade to a hi-def plasma power source, which helps achieve finishes that emulate those of laser or waterjet cutting, but at significantly lower operational costs and faster cutting speeds. This solution is ideal for those who need high-quality cuts on a regular basis and want to improve their cutting efficiency without sacrificing precision.
5-axis Cutting Heads
The process of 5-axis cutting involves moving the cutting head in five different axes: X, Y, Z, A, and B. The X, Y, and Z axes control the movement of the cutting head in the horizontal, vertical, and depth directions, respectively. The A and B axes control the angle of the cutting head, allowing for beveled cuts and complex shapes.
Adding 5-axis cutting heads to your plasma table provides versatility in cutting, allowing you to create complex components with ease. Additionally, the ability to perform weld prep beveling can save time and resources by eliminating the need for additional machinery or outsourcing.
While the initial investment may be significant, the long-term benefits of these heads outweigh the costs. The ability to fabricate complex components with precision can provide a competitive edge in the market, allowing you to take on more challenging projects and increase your revenue.
Different Tables
Different tables offer various options and advantages in terms of material handling, cutting capacity, and overall productivity. A water table, for example, reduces the amount of smoke and fumes generated during the cutting process, while a downdraft table improves the capture of fumes and debris.
Also note that a machine with a slat table can handle heavier materials, while a perforated table allows for faster cutting speeds. By choosing the right table option, you can enhance your cutting process and achieve better results.
Rotary Indexes and Positioners
Rotary indexes and positioners are handy components to enhance the cutting abilities of your plasma machine. With the addition of rotary indexers, you can easily process tubes, angles, and squares, along with various shapes.
It is important to note that this feature may only be available in new or select used machines, but its addition can significantly increase your flexibility in design and manufacturing capability, surpassing most other options. By adding this capability to your machine, you can take your plasma cutting to the next level, expanding your business offerings and growing your revenue.
Milling and Drilling Capability
Adding milling and drilling capabilities can greatly increase productivity, especially in structural fabrication shops. The addition of these capabilities eliminates the need for post/secondary operations and redundant setups, resulting in greater accuracy and improved throughput from your plasma cutting system.
While only available on the most rigid plasma cutting machine tables, drilling capabilities are featured in some of the best machines on the market. These are particularly useful in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where precise cuts are necessary for component assembly.
Additionally, with the option to integrate a variety of tools and accessories, such as tapping heads and countersinks, the milling and drilling capability on a plasma cutting machine provides flexibility in design and manufacturing.
Conclusion
With the right accessories, your plasma cutting machine can become a valuable asset to your manufacturing process. Accessories can significantly increase the machine’s capabilities, productivity, and accuracy. Adding accessories such as oxy-fuel cutting torches, 5-axis cutting, rotary indexers, and milling/drilling capabilities can expand the range of materials that can be cut, increase the thickness capacity, and eliminate the need for secondary operations.
Upgrading your plasma cutting machine with accessories and keeping it in good condition through regular maintenance can help you make the most of your investment and ensure it continues to perform optimally for years to come.
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