Plasma arc cutting, similar to TIG welding, is a process which uses a high-velocity jet of ionized gas (typically air) through a constricting orifice (small nozzle). This ionized gas (plasma), conducts electricity from the electrode (torch) to the work piece. When the arc makes contact with the conductive material you want to cut, it passes through the metal, melting a thin area and ultimately severing the metal. Advantages Versatility Unlike oxy-acetylene cutting, plasma cutting works on any electrically conductive metal. The oxy-fuel process will not work on aluminum or stainless steel. Plasma also produces cleaner cuts due to dry air being used in most applications. Speed Because of the high temperature of the plasma cutting arc (~20,000 degrees F), it is a much faster method [&hellip
Welding Archive
No, it’s not out of a sci-fi movie, but actually quite handy for a variety of applications. The best plasma cutter is lightweight, yet powerful, and able to efficiently cut a wide variety of metals and alloys. It needs to have a long reach, and be designed to allow for cutting in tight spaces. Plasma cutters are a lower fire hazard than acetylene torches, and will be many times lighter than dragging around a set of torches. As with any tool, the manufacturer can be very important, and the two top ranked picks both come from well established and professionally trusted companies which specialize in cutting and welding equipment. Keep in mind that a plasma cutter needs to have a compressed air source such as an air [&hellip
For fast cutting or welding jobs, the best oxy-acetylene torch kits should be easy to operate and lightweight. You will need hoses long enough to reach anywhere in the work vicinity, and control knobs that operate smoothly. Portability is a major concern, because you never know where you will need to take the kit for your next welding task. One of the key factors is that the hoses are supple enough to bend around corners, but strong enough not to kink. Top rated oxy-acetylene torch kit do not have to meet industrial-use standards, but they should be UL tested and certified. These oxy-acetylene torch kit models come from well-established companies, but are designed for home and amateur use rather than heavy-duty applications. TOP PICK: Campbell [&hellip
Comfort and “wearability” are very important for helmets that are going to be used regularly or for long periods. Safety of course is even more important, and the best welding helmet will always include a face shield with an auto-darkening lens. Single shade lenses are still available, but require you to take your attention away from the job at hand, either by flicking your head or using a hand to raise and lower the faceplate. Instead, the top ranked welding helmets are auto-darkening and solar-powered, which protects your eyes, and you will never have to worry about the lens not darkening because of weak batteries. Solar power may be a bit misleading, though, because the light emitted during grinding and welding is usually all you [&hellip
Oxy-Acetylene welding is a tried and true method for fusing metals. It combines oxygen and acetylene gases to form a superheated flame that melts and joins two pieces of metal. It is an intricate process that requires a great degree of skill, focus and patience, but don’t be discouraged. With the right information and proper application you can learn the oxy-acetylene method and excel at it. You just need to understand how the process works and take the proper safety precautions before you begin. Getting Started The first thing you need to do is familiarize yourself with the equipment and how it all works. Your main piece of equipment will be your welding torch. The torch’s primary function is to regulate and control how the gases flow while [&hellip