Do you work with electrically conductive metals in your workshop? Our CNC plasma cutter range lets you cut through brass, copper, stainless steel, and other metals with precision and speed.

Whether you’re a professional fabricator or a hobbyist home welder, a CNC plasma cutter is a necessary addition to your toolkit. Of course, there are many different cutting applications and thickness and material requirements. Our team of specialists will work with you to help you identify the right plasma cutter for your needs.

What is a CNC Plasma Cutter?

A plasma cutter is a software-controlled machine that uses a plasma stream to cut through conductive metals. The cutter works by sending pressurized gas, such as argon, nitrogen, or oxygen, through a narrow nozzle. Then, an external power supply produces an electric current, which provides sufficient energy to the gas flow to ionize it. The result is a plasma arc that can cut a wide range of electrically conductive alloys.

Generally, a plasma cutter is safer than a saw for cutting metals, which is why many fabricators, welders, and hobbyists favor it over other cutting equipment. It can be used to cut:

• Copper
• Brass
• Aluminum
• Mild steel
• Stainless steel
• Cast iron
• Inconel
• Monel
• Titanium

CNC Plasma Cutter Uses

CNC plasma cutters are used in a wide range of residential and industrial workshops for different cutting applications. Typical applications include:

• Straight cutting
• Hole cutting
• Bevel cutting
• Fine feature cutting
• Extended reach cutting
• Chain cutting
• Bridge cutting
• Multi-head cutting
• Marking
• Gouging

Modern plasma cutters also help reduce the amount of debris created in the environment. Some models combat noise, while others enable arc cutting under water. HTPAC (high tolerance plasma arc cutting) is an important evolution of arc technology. The process is deemed a low-cost alternative to laser cutting and offers great precision on material 12mm thick and below.

CNC Plasma Cutters vs. Oxy-Fuel Cutting Machines

CNC plasma cutters face some competition from oxy-fuel cutting machines. These machines rely on a fuel/oxygen gas flame to preheat metal to its temperature. Those working in the metalworking industry often prefer plasma cutters over oxy-fuel because the plasma system does not require preheating. Additionally, the quality and speed of plasma cutting are far better than flame oxy-fuel cutting.

Other benefits of plasma cutters include:

• Smaller cutting kerf than flame cutting
• Most efficient way to cut medium thickness aluminum and stainless steel
• Can cut in water, producing smaller HAZ
• Excellent quality cuts for thickness up to 50 mm
• Relatively cheap with plates starting at around 15 mm
• Eliminates plate warping and diminishes dross

CNC Plasma Cutter Features

Your choice of CNC plasma cutter will depend on the following factors:

• Metal thickness: It’s critical to measure the thickness of the metal you intend to cut. Doing so will help you decide which plasma cutting machine to invest in. For instance, a 55mm (20-1/4”) metal sheet can be easily cut with a Powermax plasma cutter.
• Plasma cut quality: Get an idea of the machine’s potential cut quality by considering the plasma cutting system, motion control devices, type of machine, and process variables. Modern CNC plasma cutters use a tightly focused arc that provides a straight, clean, and smooth cut.
• Duty cycle: The duty cycle of any metal cutting machine will decrease as the user increases the voltage. So consider machines that offer the highest percentage number at any amperage—these are the cutters most likely to last longer.
• Plasma cutting torch length: The general rule is to choose a machine with a torch that fits the shape of your hand. However, a longer torch would be needed if you work in a large space, so you don’t have to move the plasma cutting machine around.
• Voltage: Three voltage options are available for plasma cutters: 115V, 230V, and dual voltage. 115V cutters can be plugged into a standard home power outlet, but a 230V machine is better for industrial use.
• Pilot arc: Check whether the machine you’re considering buying has a pilot arc. This is handy for cutting rusty services because it removes the need to clean and strike the metal.
• Consumption rate: Consider the consumption rate of your machine to reduce costs over time. Plasma cutters from Hypertherm cost more upfront, but their robust consumables help lower operating costs, making them an excellent choice for saving money in the long run.
  Software: Top quality designs require the operator to use a combination of CAM, CNC, and CAD software. Inquire about software options with the vendor before making a buying decision.

Plasma Cutter Brands

Squickmons offers two industry-leading plasma cutters:

• Hypertherm
• Victor Thermal Dynamics

You can choose from Powermax (also includes 3 phase options) and Cutmaster machines to start your cutting journey, with professional features like:

• Z-Axis fully integrated multi-process
• Modular wielded frame design
• Computer station & pedestal option
• Collision detection and head assembly
• Plasma table construction and size options

CNC Plasma Cutter Software

At Squickmons, we offer a variety of software for CNC plasma cutting:

• Standard software option: Although it’s not a full industrial control package, our standard software is a great way to draw up a quick bracket with basic CAD functions. It also comes with CAM/CNC integrated.
• Arc Professional: This is our advanced software package that covers three main software needs; CNC, CAM, and CAD. You get a clean click through interface that enables you to control one-off parts to a full production rate with true and grid shape nesting choices.
• Fusion 360: It’s the first 3D CAM, CAE, and CAD tool of its kind, connecting the whole product development process into a single cloud-based interface.
• DraftSight: You can use this CAD software to create DFX files or edit the existing vector files you have.
• AutoCAD: While on the expensive side compared to other budget-friendly CAD options, AutoCAD is ideal for intricate designs and can also export DFX files.

Note: For vector files, you can use any of the last three software options you prefer. As long as the tool can export or save a file in DXF format, you should not face any issues in opening the file in our control software to begin the cutting process.

Why Choose Squickmons CNC Plasma Cutters?

• 5-year warranty on all CNC Plasma Cutters
• Made in USA plasma cutters
• Three machine sizes: 4×8, 5×10, 6×12
• 24-month manufacturer warranty
• 30-day guarantee
• Reliable after sales service

For more info on our CNC plasma cutters, call 1-877-916-7477 or fill out our contact form here.