DIY Arc Cutters

Always wear protective clothing when using an arc cutter.

Arc cutters are devices that generate heat needed to cut through metal, which allows manufacturers to create metal products and make repairs. A broad range of tools are available and the use of these tools is relatively straightforward, with the operator moving the arc through the metal until part of the metal has been turned to liquid. This allows the two pieces of metal to be separated. However, the devices can be potentially dangerous, since they send sparks flying and generate much heat that can cause burns, if safety precautions are not followed.

Things You'll Need

• Clamps
• Arc cutter
• Metal

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Instructions

Plasma

1. Make sure both ends of the work piece are clamped down securely.

2. Get the torch as close to the edge of the work piece as possible. The work piece is the piece of metal that you are cutting through.

3. Pull the trigger to start the pilot arc. As the torch gets closer to the work piece, the arc will penetrate through the bottom .

4. Move the torch slowly through the work piece. If you move too quickly, the piece will not cut all the way through. However, if part of the work piece does not detach, you can move the torch through that area again.

5. Pause briefly after moving through the piece to finish the cut, since the plasma arc will not have necessarily cut through the work piece.

6. Move the torch to the next work piece that you intend to cut through. While doing this, the torch will release air to cool the torch, but you can continue cutting.

Carbon

1. Clamp down both parts of the work piece so they do not fall while you are cutting through (

2. Turn on the air jet before striking the arc.

3. Press the switch that activates the electrode. The carbon air will pass under the electrode and ignite, generating heat that will raise the temperature of the metal, melting it. The air also blows away the molten metal.

4. Touch the electrode to the work piece.

5. Move the electrode in a sawing motion, perpendicular to the work piece, until you manage to separate the two work pieces.

Tips & Warnings

• When the torch hits the work piece, sparks should fly from the bottom. If they do not, you likely haven’t penetrated the work piece. Either you are moving too fast, or you do not have enough power.

• Since the arc cutter produces UV rays and extreme heat that can injure eyes and burn skin, always wear a welding helmet. Also, wear protective clothing that does not allow your skin to be exposed to sparks and heat. In addition, when possible, use a shielding booth painted with a finish that has low reflectivity, such as zinc oxide. Make sure the area where the work is performed does not have flammable objects..

References

• Miller Welds: Plasma
• Arcair: Air Carbon-Arc Guide