What Is an Automatic Cutting Machine?
An automatic cutting machine is a machine designed for automatic control rather than manual operation.
The key distinction between a cutting machine and a cut-off machine lies in the mode of operation. A “machine” typically involves human-operated devices without motors, while a “machine” is powered by a motor and operates autonomously.
Automatic cutting machines are exclusively motor-driven, and we commonly refer to them as “cut-off machines.”
The classification of manual cut-off machines, such as gas cut-off machines and plasma cut-off machines, depends on the cutting device attached to the automatic cutting machine.
Among automatic cutting machines, portable automatic cutting machines are often referred to as portable cut-off machines or simply automatic cutting machines.
The term “automatic” in this context originates from the fact that portable automatic cutting machines were among the world’s first automated cut-off machines.
In contrast, a stationary cut-off machine is a fixed automatic cutting machine.
Uses of Automatic Cutting Machines
Among automatic cutting machines, high-speed cut-off machines utilize a high-speed rotating cutting wheel with a diameter typically ranging from 14 to 16 inches to cut metal efficiently.
These machines excel at cutting metal in a straight and clean manner, making them suitable for cutting materials like square pipes and angles. However, they are not ideal for use in residential areas due to their noise levels.
Grinders (or sanders) do not require fixing like high-speed cutting machines, making them versatile and widely used at various job sites.
Similar to high-speed cutters, they are less suitable for cutting thicker metals.
Air plasma cutting machines consist of a plasma cutting machine body and an air compressor.
Some models can easily cut metal up to 1/2″ thick. They can cut nearly any electrically conductive metal, operate quietly, and can cut curved lines. However, for precision, a rough cut followed by finishing with a grinder or similar tool may be necessary due to the 2 to 3 mm cutting width.
Band saws cut metal by rapidly rotating a band-shaped saw blade.
They are suitable for cutting pipes, round bars filled with contents and square timbers. Although they have a slower cutting speed, the cut surface is clean and precise.
Gas cutting machines use acetylene gas and oxygen for cutting.
They are frequently employed in civil engineering and demolition sites and are ideal for cutting (fusing) thick metals, but qualifications (training) are necessary for operation.
Gasoline oxygen fusion cutting machines are also available as an alternative to gas cutting machines.
Laser cutting machines are capable of automatic cutting through the use of programs generated with CAD or other software.
While these machines offer precise and accurate cutting, they come at a high cost, ranging from several million to tens of millions of yen.
Principle of Automatic Cutting Machines
Hand-held automatic cutting machines are semi-automatic hand-held cut-off machines that combine the advantages of hand-held blowpipes and automatic machines.
They can be used similarly to hand-held blowpipes and are versatile, allowing for various types of cutting, including straight lines, small circles, large circles, and bevel cuts.
By employing different one-touch attachment types, these machines can perform accurate cutting operations. They are lightweight and portable, making them easy to use and transport. Both the main unit and accessories can be stored in a special case for convenience.
In contrast, fixed-type automatic cutting machines represent advanced cutting and welding carts.
The control system for the traveling motor has been significantly enhanced, allowing for a wide speed range suitable for materials of varying thicknesses. A patented “creep function” enables instant switching to low-speed travel to prevent end-of-cut issues in thick materials.
The built-in arc interlocking function can be applied to plasma cutting and welding by changing the torch set, making it effective for butt welding thick materials. A new heat exhaust mechanism at the bottom of the main unit reduces thermal effects on the machine.