Red-D-Arc and the advantages of cutting aluminum with plasma cutters

PAC is the industry standard for cutting aluminum alloys.

Aluminum alloys are easy to bend, weld, and cut, which explains their popularity in metal fabrication. According to a recent blog post by Red-D-Arc Welderentals, plasma arc cutting, or PAC, is a popular option for producing high-quality cuts in aluminum alloys. A key benefit of PAC over mechanical cutting methods is speed; although laser cutting can be faster, it has certain disadvantages. PAC offers an unmatched balance of speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

Notably lower capital investment

The PAC method is easier to implement than other processes are as a handheld technique for in-service repairs in the shop or field, and it also offers a notably lower capital investment. Users should observe proper safety measures when installing, maintaining, and operating PAC equipment: the appropriate personal protective equipment must be used, like adequate ventilation, for example.

Another key advantage of the PAC process is that a broad variety of equipment sizes is available for different applications. Many fabricators and manufacturers use lighter-duty PAC power sources with built-in air compressors for mobility, while other plasma cutters often draw power from portable generators or welding machines in the field, according to Red-D-Arc. Physically larger units can be powered by mains or portable generators and can cut through thicker material, while running for longer periods out in the field. Larger mains-powered equipment can do the same in a plant.

The selected cutting amperage influences the cutting speed, as do the size of the equipment and the choice of plasma gas. For most tasks, compressed air offers suitable results, considering the limits of handheld instruments. Nitrogen/hydrogen and argon/hydrogen shielding gases help to improve speed in mechanized applications. Quality consumables are crucial in achieving good quality at high travel speeds.

Users should always go by the recommendations from the original equipment manufacturer about the optional consumables to use. The consumables should be checked periodically for excessive wear, which may become noticeable before cut quality degrades severely. High dross and poor edge quality are also indicators of consumable issues.

The PAC process has become the industry standard for making high-quality cuts in aluminum.

To learn more, contact Red-D-Arc.

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