What are plasma cutters and how do they work?
A plasma cutter is an electrical cutting device that separates metals using a high-energy plasma arc. The special thing about this is that the arc heats the gas to extreme temperatures of up to 30,000 °C and thus generates plasma.
This is how plasma cutting works:
- The power source creates an electric arc between the electrode in the torch and the workpiece.
- Gas - usually normal compressed air - flows through the nozzle and is ionised by the arc. It is important that the air is free of oil and water, otherwise the wearing parts will suffer.
- The resulting plasma melts the metal with pinpoint accuracy and is simultaneously blown through the kerf at high pressure.
- The result is a clean, precise cut.
The cutting performance can be individually adjusted to the material and thickness via the amperage and air pressure. Modern plasma cutters work with inverter technology, which enables infinitely variable control. Other functions such as overload protection and sophisticated operating elements also ensure safe handling.
Possible applications for plasma cutters
You can master a wide range of cutting tasks with plasma cutting devices: Cutting sheet metal precisely to size, cutting out contours, cutting pipes to length or preparing weld seams. Openings for connections or complete dismantling of structures are also part of the range of applications. Our plasma cutters prove their worth in e.g:
- Metal & steel construction: Cutting sheet metal, profiles and beams to size
- Car workshops & body shops: Sheet metal work on vehicles and exhaust systems
- Manufacturing companies: series cutting, deburring and preparation for welding
- Heating & sanitary installations: precise pipe cutting and thread cutting
- Agricultural businesses: Repairs, conversions and maintenance of machines
Buy plasma cutters: Models from ELMAG for every need
Three factors are important when choosing the right plasma cutter:
- What material and what material thicknesses are you cutting?
- How often do you use the device and how quickly and efficiently do you want to be able to cut?
- Which power connection is available?
ELMAG offers devices in various performance classes - so you are guaranteed to find the right model:
- Compact 230V devices such as the POWER PLASMA 3035/M are perfect for flexible use. Usable with a normal power connection, weighing just 13 kg and ideal for thin sheets and sporadic work up to 8 mm, they are ideal for workshops, assembly work and when travelling.
- Powerful 400 V inverters such as the top models in the iQC series combine the latest technology with maximum performance and offer more power for demanding tasks. Provided they have a three-phase connection, they cut steel up to 40 mm cleanly and reliably. The high duty cycle enables continuous work. These professional devices are the first choice for industry, series production and maximum demands.
Special highlights of the plasma cutters from ELMAG
Plasma cutters from ELMAG impress with their sophisticated technology and thedecades of experience of our experts, which can be found in every detail - from the inverter to the nozzle and the matching accessories. The result: Reliable machines that perform even under tough conditions.
- The latest generation of inverter technology: modern electronics regulate the current continuously and precisely. The high efficiency saves energy, while the appliances remain compact and easy to handle. Fluctuating mains voltage? No problem - the appliances continue to operate stably with ±10% to ±20% deviation.
- Esafast® quick connection (iQC models): The patented quick connector makes changing burners a matter of seconds. No tools required, no fiddling. Perfect when different torch lengths are used or when torches need to be changed quickly in shift operation.
- High-quality wear parts: Our copper nozzles and precision-manufactured electrodes last significantly longer than standard components. This means fewer changes, consistent quality and lower follow-up costs.
- Full range of accessories directly available: From replacement nozzles and various torches to compressed air preparation - at ELMAG you get everything from a single source. Quick availability and expert advice included.
Find the plasma cutter that best suits your requirements in our online shop, including suitable accessories and wear parts. With ELMAG, you can rely on tested quality and dependable service!
Frequently asked questions
What do you do with a plasma cutter?
A plasma cutter is used to cut electrically conductive metals precisely and quickly. The main applications include cutting sheet metal, cutting out contours, cutting pipes to length, creating openings and preparing weld seams. The devices are used, for example, in metal construction companies, car workshops, industry or in the installation trade. They also work well on rusty, painted or oily surfaces.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of plasma cutting?
The most important advantages are the high cutting speed, clean cuts with little reworking, low heat exposure and significantly lower operating costs than laser cutting. In addition, plasma cuts all conductive metals and also works on rusty or painted surfaces. Disadvantages include restrictions on conductive materials, somewhat lower precision than with lasers, regular replacement of wearing parts and the need for clean, oil- and water-free compressed air . Overall, however, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages for most applications. If you are unsure, contact our experts at ELMAG - we will be happy to advise you on your options!
Which materials can be cut with plasma?
The basic prerequisite for plasma cutting is electrical conductivity, as the workpiece serves as the anode in the circuit. This means that all electrically conductive metals can be cut: Mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, brass, galvanised sheet metal, cast iron and titanium. It is therefore not possible to cut non-metals such as plastic, wood, glass or ceramics.
Can I also weld with a plasma cutter?
No. A plasma cutter is designed exclusively for cutting. At up to 30,000 °C, the plasma arc is far too hot and focussed for welding - it blows the molten material away instead of joining it. We recommend using a special welding machine for welding.
What kind of gas do you need for plasma cutting?
Most plasma cutters work with normal compressed air, which is also the most cost-effective solution. It is important that the air is free of oil and water, otherwise the wearing parts will suffer. For higher cutting quality in industry , special gases such as nitrogen, oxygen or argon-hydrogen mixtures are also used.
How much compressed air does a plasma cutter need?
That depends on the device. It is important to ensure that the compressor can supply the air volume continuously and not just for a short time. To be on the safe side, plan a reserve of 20-30 %. The ELMAG POWER PLASMA 3035/M requires at least 60 l/min at 3.5 bar; a normal workshop compressor is sufficient here. The PLASMA IQC 70/T, on the other hand, requires approx. 230 L/min at 5.5 bar, the iQC 110/T approx. 295 L/min at 6 bar. The exact requirements can be found in the technical data of the respective device or you can ask our experts.
What does a good plasma cutter cost?
Prices vary depending on the performance class. Entry-level devices such as the ELMAG POWER PLASMA 3035/M are suitable for DIY enthusiasts and mobile applications. Mid-range devices are intended for professional workshops. Premium models from the iQC series are for continuous industrial use. Factor in additional running costs for wearing parts and possibly a suitable, powerful compressor. You can find the current prices in our online shop. In any case, quality appliances quickly pay for themselves through a longer service life and low follow-up costs.
SKU: 55813 CEBORA PLASMA SOUND PC 70/T Plasma Inverter Art. 334
SKU: 55811 CEBORA POWER PLASMA 3035/M Plasma Inverter Art. 279
SKU: 56804 Plasma inverter CEBORA PLASMA iQC 130/T Item 603 Includes CP180C MAR/6m burner with Esafast® adapter (item no. 2020) and 6m ground cable
SKU: 56802 Plasma-Inverter CEBORA PLASMA IQC 70/T Art. 601 inkl. Brenner CP71C MAR/6m mit Esafast® Adapter Art. 1629 & Massekabel 6m
SKU: 56803 Plasma inverter CEBORA PLASMA iQC 110/T Item 602 Includes CP180C MAR/6m burner with Esafast® adapter (item no. 2020) and 6m ground cable
