29Bend-Tech Dragon A150
Plasma Cutting Guide
Plasma System Gas Supply
04
04
Plasma System Gas
Supply
Plasma System Gas/Air Supply
Proper gas or air supply for the plasma cutting process is critical to achieving precise,
the plasma jet during the cutting process, as well as to cool the unit after cutting. For the
Powermax45, Hypertherm recommends a gas/air supply that can maintain 6 cfm at 90 psi. For
larger machines such as the Powermax65 and Powermax85, these numbers may vary slightly.
It is important to note that an air compressor may have a manufacturer rating of 6 cfm at 90
extended use. For example, approximate pressure loss for a 100 ft. run of ½ in. pipe at 100
the compressor outlet, a plasma unit at the end of that 100-foot run would only see 56 psi. To
Some simple rules to follow include:
• Use the shortest line possible between the compressor and the plasma unit.
•
• If the compressor can handle it, raise the pressure and use a larger line to the
plasma unit, then control the pressure at the plasma unit with a secondary
pressure regulator.