Mastering CNC Plasma Cutting: Technology, Operation, and CAM

More Plasma Info: DIY Vacuum Lifter Plans: Dr. D-Flo’s Instagram: Video Description: Welcome to Dr. D-Flo’s mega guide on how to setup, operate, and perfect cuts on a CNC plasma cutter. This video covers everything from the basic principles of plasma generation all the way to programming the toolpaths that control the position and speed of the torch. Perhaps, the most important topic is optimizing both cut speed and quality to produce parts quickly without having to spend time on the backend grinding off excess dross. Unfortunately, there is not a universal setting as the performance of the plasma cutter changes as the consumables (electrode and nozzle) wear. This video will show you have to read the clues (i.e., lag lines) hidden in the edge to tune the speed, height, and amperage of the cut. If you are new to plasma cutting, then you might not be aware of some of the challenges associated with fabricating parts from large sheets of metal, namely the material handling aspect. In this guide within a guide, learn why a vacuum lifter is the best method for handling thin and thick sheet metal and how to build one. This is just one of several projects featured at the end of the video. #PlasmaCutting #MasterClass #Fabrication Table of Contents: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:02 – Workflow 00:06:07 – What is Plasma? 00:11:00 – Power Supply 00:17:51 – Torch Design 00:18:33 – Arc Ignition 00:20:22 – Pilot Arc 00:24:05 – Consumables 00:24:13 – Shield 00:24:53 – Nozzle 00:29:17 – Electrode 00:31:38 – Swirl Ring 00:34:32 – Retaining Cap 00:35:20 – SmartSYNC Cartridge 00:37:09 – FineCut Consumables 00:38:00 – Plasma Gas 00:47:42 – Plasma Shape 00:49:00 – Initial Height Sensing (IHC) 00:52:50 – Torch Height Control (THC) 00:55:17 – Plasma Cutting Sequence 00:57:28 – Minimizing Dross (Speed) 01:01:56 – CNC Table Design 01:07:57 – Material Handling 01:11:28 – Cutting Aluminum 01:14:06 – CAM/Toolpaths 01:26:12 – Nesting 01:31:32 – Vacuum Lifter 01:36:55 – Signage 01:37:38 – Fire Pit