A plasma torch should be regularly inspected for worn out consumable parts. Any damaged or worn out parts should then be replaced to keep the torch working as efficiently as possible.The plasma torch is used to cut metal by producing plasma at very high temperature and pressures. With temperatures as high as 30,000 degree Fahrenheit and pressure that blows away metal that has been cut, the components of plasma torch take a lot of stress. The parts that need to be replaced most commonly are the Electrode, the Nozzle and the Shield. The Swirl Ring usually lasts a lot longer than these components.The Electrode:An electrode's primary purpose is to supply the plasma arc with power. You can detect the electrode wear by examining the insert and then measuring the depth of the pit. Incorrect gas flow settings, moisture build-up, gas leaks, and impurities in the plasma gas make an electrode wear out faster. A worn out electrode should be replaced, otherwise it will continue to cut metal with a lower quality.The Nozzle:The Nozzle contains a hole through which the gas exits the torch. With a small diameter, this hole also constricts the gas to produce a pressure high enough to blow away pieces of cut metal. Some of the common causes of a damaged nozzle are cutting material thicker than the capability of your plasma cutter, incorrect cut distance and incorrect gas and amperage settings. Regular inspection and replacement of the nozzle with an OEM nozzle should give you the most efficient plasma torch possible. The Shield:The shield protects the parts from damage from the flame. Its most common damage is the clogging of its orifice by dross or spatter. If you can, you should take out the dross. The main orifice may need replacement if it is out-of-round. The Swirl Ring:A Swirl rings lasts much longer than the rest of the components of the plasma torch. But when it gets worn out, the problem is usually clogging. You should replace a worn out swirl ring otherwise it will cause hampered gas flow, decreased cut quality and shortened electrode and nozzle life. ConclusionUsing genuine OEM parts to replace the plasma cutter consumables should give you a plasma cutter that lasts longer, and cuts metal with the finest quality as long as it lasts. It also keeps you safe and reduces your down-time, saving you a lot of bother in the long run.
