What Are Plasma Welders?
Plasma welders are devices that use a plasma arc generated between the electrode and the base metal for welding.
Plasma welding is classified as a non-consumable electrode type of arc welding, similar to TIG welding, where welding is performed using the energy of the arc discharge.
Compared to other welding equipment, plasma welding can be used for finer welding applications due to the narrow width of the arc emitted from the torch. Although plasma welders offer many advantages, they are not widely used because few companies own them and their existence is not well-known.
Uses of Plasma Welders
Plasma welders are sometimes used for welding base materials that require a high level of precision or for other applications that demand characteristics not found in other arc welding methods.
For example, consumable electrode arc welding inevitably leads to distortion of the base metal due to its structure. Plasma welders can focus the arc’s heat on a smaller area, reducing welding time and minimizing distortion.
They are also useful when a clean finish is desired because they do not leave behind spatter, which are small grains that can occur in other welding processes.
Principles of Plasma Welders
Plasma welders convert the gas inside the equipment into plasma to create an arc discharge. Plasma, also known as the fourth state of matter, is generated by continuously supplying energy to a gas. Gases in this state exhibit electrical properties due to the presence of charged particles. When this plasma gas is injected, it becomes a conductor, and an arc is generated.
Compared to TIG welding, which operates on a similar principle, the arc produced by plasma welding is narrower and more focused, allowing for welding in tighter spaces.
Furthermore, the non-consumable electrode, designed to prevent the electrode rod from melting, allows for continuous operation over extended periods of time.
On the other hand, it is more expensive than TIG welding, which is a drawback.
There are various welding methods available, and it is important to understand the characteristics of each.