Re: clean plasma

In a message dated 02/18/2000 9:22:50 AM Hawaiian Standard Time,
jvicars@... writes:

<< Are there any rules of thumb? I have not been able to get
consistent results, and frequently leave a trail of slag underneath and
behind the arc.

>>

Joe,

Make sure you have a good moisture removal system. If you can swing a
refrigerated unit, that'd be best. Moisture eats up the nozzle and electrode,
causing the jet to emerge "crooked". If that is not possible, a chemical
desiccant is next best. The larger welding supply houses have these.

If you really are serious, you can go to nitrogen or some other for your
cutting gas. Ask the plazma sales guys. I've not tried this. Can get
expensive.

When you start the arc, make sure the jet is not over the parts. You want
to avoid piercing when possible. Jet blow back causes erosion of the nozzle,
causing crooked jets again.

When you are tired of scraping slag, go to lasers like most bigger fab
shops.....

Peter
THRD, Inc.