Consumables

Nozzle

Focuses the gas and in turn the plasma arc down to the workpiece. Is the positive (+) electrical connection when forming the pilot arc which transitions to the material being cut once the arc is established.

Electrode

Typically made up of mostly copper and has either a hafnium or tungsten tip. It receives electrical current from the negative (cathode) connection inside the torch. Focuses the charge through its tip initiating an arc first with the nozzle (pilot arc) and subsequently onto the workpiece for cutting.

Shield Cap

Protects the torch and the components inside from molten metal ejection, sparks, excess heat and wayward arcs. Also concentrates the shield gas during cutting.

Swirl Ring or Plasma Distributor

Sits between the electrode and the tip. Its purpose is to evenly distribute the plasma gas and to induce the swirling action in the gas, surrounding the plasma arc for greater precision, straighter single side cutting and lastly to evenly cool preceding components with the gas distribution.

Shield Gas Distributor

Works in combination with the swirl gas ring to produce a more stabilized arc and straighter cut edge quality. Directing the plasma shield gas around the plasma arc.

Cartridge

Connects consumable stack to the torch, provides the electrical interface between torch and the stack.

Shield Cup

Works in combination with the swirl gas ring to produce a more stabilized arc and straighter cut edge quality. Directing the plasma shield gas around the plasma arc.

Frequently Asked Questions

The frequency at which you need to change out consumables will vary depending on a few factors, including:

Considering the last variable, number of pierces, reducing this number by edge starting a sheet and connecting your cut-outs together as if it were one continuous cut path will greatly improve the mileage you get out of your electrode and nozzles.

First off visually check your consumables if you experience a noticeable change in cutting results. This could include:

  1. Increased dross accumulation
  2. Abnormal high degrees of bevel angle (in non-bevel cutting, of course)
  3. Inconsistent piercing results

Second, the sound the torch is making during cutting changes from a consistent higher pitch sound to a fluctuating or inconsistent noise. Many experience operators and technicians can tell by ear if the plasma isn’t operating at optimal conditions. 

Lastly, a quick check in your table manufacturers software; where many will tell you how many pierces have been completed on a set of consumables. Additionally, some will include compensation for worn components, increasing the pierce duration to make sure complete penetration is made.

As discussed above, the number of pierces will have the most detrimental affects on the consumable stack. Many plasma manufacturers will provide estimate numbers of pierces that the electrode – nozzle pairing will produce.

Visual checks are your best bet to determine the state of the consumable items. In additional to the performance decreases explained above. Here is a quick reference for what to look for when determining if each consumable item is no longer good to use: