Plasma Cutting for Beginners: Sheet Metal | TIG Time

[@davidhendershot5734]

I bought one of the first Everlast machines. I had a problem with adjusting the settings for specific applications. I called the phone number in the manual. The guy answers, it’s the head of the company. We a long conversation. Nice guy very helpful

[@JamesDoylesGarage]

I appreciate that people here are being critical but civil. Personally I was happy just to see what it does and will now look for a more in depth tutorial. So Thanks

[@Welddotcom]

The 2t function on the panel allows you to initiate an arc or plasma cut immediately upon demand of the trigger. When you let off the trigger, the plasma arc stops. When you place the 4t function, you can squeeze the trigger and once the arc is initiated, you can let go of the trigger and the arc will remain until you re-squeeze the trigger. This function is sometimes used for automatic cutting systems or when you have long runs to make.

[@ralphwaters8905]

I've found that the dross ("recast") that adheres to the edges of a cut can be minimized by maximizing the speed of the cut. e.g. You could have gone much faster in your demo. To remove it, tap the edge with a hammer (motion in the plane of the material) and it will pop right off. The "pilot arc" feature is intended for interrupted cuts, such as you would encounter when cutting expanded metal. It keeps the arc going while the torch moves through the air gap to the next section of metal.

[@billyblackie9417]

Very well done and very informative. I just bought my first ever plasma cutter as I want to do some small home projects as Im retired and just doing things as hobbies. I haven't even taken the cutters out of its box yet but I was reading through the instructions a few times because I'm a slow learner and pick up hints gradually especially things I need to be familiar with. You showed the important things and what would need to eventually be replaced something I didn't know about great job

[@Welddotcom]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Welddotcom]

The Pilot arc is a "small" hot ionized flame that will allow quick start initiation of the plasma cut upon demand. It will assist in connecting the electrical circuit needed to initiate the full power on plasma demand.

[@catherineharris4746]

Omg i just heard that Mr. Tig has passed away!😭 R.I.P. Sir and thanks for all of these educational videos you've given us!

[@sekainiheiwa3650]

No surprised at these times

[@beginization]

I started TIG at college this year, Being a artist I picked up the TIG quickly and about to start stainless steel as I just finished the mild steel projects,but to build sculptures a plasma cutter is what I need.

[@sverrefossenjr.3695]

As a beginner I Hope we can learn some more by following you Thanks for the movie

[@mfoto01]

This may have been pointed out, but what you referred to as an "insulator" @ 2:41 is actually called a Swirl Ring. It's not really a consumable, but is a very important part of what makes a plasma cutter work like it does.

[@walterforsiethe2567]

User adjustable post flow is a great feature. Some discussion on amperage and travel speed for the best cut would have been nice.

[@briandonovan1058]

Mr. Tig rocks. Had a good year (2014) and looking forward to bringing a Plasma cutter into our 19th century fab shop! LOL Thanks for my first lesson.

[@erwinerwin1245]

Great informative video. I am new at this and just took up welding. Now thinking of buying a cheap Amazon plasma cutter Now do you not need a welding helmet for the plasma cutter and welding glvoes?

[@dieselrotor]

No offense meant. I'm a 32 year year long heavy duty Mechanic/welder/fabricator and i build custom semi trucks/trailers/wreckers and soon choppers. And I buy "Cheap Chinese" Ebay equipment and I have no problems because I understand limitations and know not to push equipment and keep it clean and cool. My point is, You get to use/afford the best high end stuff. Why don't You demonstrate some equipment people in the real world can afford and show techniques and some of the difficulty's faced when You don't have top notch equipment. Heck, I cut 1/2 steel all day with My cheap Simadre CUT-50RX and TIG aluminum all day too with My cheap Infinity TIG200P. My Lincoln 216 does the heavier stuff when welding 3/4 steel and My 100S spool gun for heavier aluminum all very successfully. Teach technique, not just go buy the best. And if Your asking why I'm here, just got bored and the rabbit hole led Me here. Help these kids, don't just tell/show them they need the best.

[@intuitiveobservations459]

He is using an Everlast machine. That is the cheapest Chinese junk you can buy. He promotes their products because he gets paid to.

[@eugenechurch6135]

dieselrotor dude start a channel thats what us fabricators need

[@boogiewoogiepapa4784]

62 yrs old here, get started ,you don t need the best, a little experience will tell you where you need to spend your money. I personally have spent thousands of dollars on tools, never regretted buying quality but it takes time. Good luck enjoy the work.

[@boogiewoogiepapa4784]

For you Chloe ,but its also for anyone starting something new. Thanks for the response

[@shaun2049]

Good video dude lm just starting out on fabrication need to know what plasma to buy

[@MagaRickn]

Good information, but like most experienced users, they forget some of us have never used a plasma torch. What air pressure should we use for the gauge metal? :) I just bought a plasma machine and my first cuts look like I had my eyes closed! ;) That being said, what eye protection setting should we use? Cutting goggles or welding helmet?? :)

[@notretiredrefreshed3245]

It is time for me to break down and buy a PowerPlasma cutter. Thanks for the tips about adjustable postflow Walter. Great tip.

[@notretiredrefreshed3245]

I've been looking at a few everlast plasma cutters. Nice that they can be purchased at Sears, Home Depot, Amazon, etc. Really convenient.

[@nicolasoscardelacruz2505]

Thank you for such a beautiful machine that will benefit us all and give us a good future

[@jereleonard2550]

good video, thanks for the advice to a plasma cutter new comer

[@lukebrooks8071]

Very informative and a nice camera presence thank you..

[@Mayan97N]

Thank you very much for the video great help to understanding plasma cutting

[@seyedmohammadrezaghafouria50]

Thank you for your well-prepared video. It would be better if you could give some more information about the dross forming on the top and the low surfaces and also about the optimum and best-cutting conditions. Many Thanks,

[@wburke8628]

seyed mohammadreza Ghafourian u

[@justinverbaux6474]

The torch guide should have been right up against the surface of the metal to be cut. That would have produced a much cleaner cut. A discussion on the benefits of the pilot arc would have been helpful. Also a discussion on the features to look for to prolong the life of the consumables like a user settable post-flow.

[@jonandersonmd7994]

Thanks for the intro to this technology! QUESTION: Just wHAT does the term " 2T " mean?? you refer to it but without any sort of explanation ...

[@whenyoudownrng]

What we all came for is at 6:09

[@EReznok]

This may been addressed, what kind of eye protection should I be using? I see you had tinted glasses, are those regular tinted safety glasses?

[@matthewcurrier3636]

I use oxy/acet on farm and am going to try my uncles on some pieces. Two ?'s: 1.) How clean does the metal need to be when doing this, grind all the way or will cut dirty as long as you can make an arc. 2.) welding helmet or torch goggles; are those special glasses he has on; shade #?? thank you

[@tigdepot]

Prandomable This plasma cutting unit is a robust 70 amp power supply and can handle 1/2" steels and hardened steels without much of a problem. When you get to 1/2" thickness or greater you will find your kerf starts to enlarge. good luck Mister Tig

[@oplkfdhgk]

I love how metal cutting devices goes from like scissors but for metal to freaking plasma 😃

[@jeffgood6441]

Could you hook a plasma cuting torch to a cheap dc tig welder and then use a compressor and air instead of gas ?

[@patglenn7762]

Question: Can a person cut multiple sheets at the same time (to make more than 1 copy of an item) or will the resulting pieces simply be welded together during the process?

[@JackOffAllTrades]

Yes. Plasma will jump the small gap between pieces.

[@HarlyGuy13]

Title says "Plasma Cutting for Beginners" but yet you skimmed over things like 4T & 2T also the pilot arc. As a beginner I would have like to have known what these are and why you do or do not use them. Just a suggestion.

[@jeremybenson5782]

Maybe it's not needed for a beginner. He cut through metal for you. If there are only a few settings those are probably for intermediate, lol.

[@wimm1392]

Thanks Mr. TIG. Another good video.

[@charlesphillips474]

You mentions Air. Is that from a compressor or is it bottled air or O2 ?

[@archangel20031]

Those wearable tips, I assume they are made of steel? Could they be welded up and the hole drilled back to the original size? Steel can be welded, brass can be brazed, and that could be a cost saver in the long run. I have in a pinch redone a MIG tip.

[@g.fortin3228]

You mentioned you were using 25 amps on the sheet metal, and what would you run for PSI with that setting ? Still a high amount or dial that similarly low ?

[@fernanlozano1033]

Woo My dream plasma cuting

[@MarkThomas123]

You are using a drag tip.. You should mention what they are good for.. Dragging on the metal.. I didn't know they existed, and they are really nice for cutting plate... Even if you have a roller..

[@user-uk6oo4tq6v]

I bought a plasma cutter with a built in air compressor. Im planning on adding this device in the bed of my truck, and attaching it to a power source. Can my three Yellow Top batteries be used as a power source. Keep in mind my truck runs on two 400 amperes alternators.

[@rhiannemoll3386]

Mr. Tig, you look like a lovely man. Thanks for the tutorial!

[@thingsbeensaidanddone.2378]

The funny part is you guys are wondering you should get 110v or the 220v version. We here in Belgium we are asking the same question but we are doubting between 230v or 400V. I have 3x 400V at home. Not even a company! Hihi. Gr Reza

[@weit8136]

thank you! came here to learn about plasma cutters for work, pretty informative!

[@mrdinjemek]

What other equipment at home (other then the plasma cutter) do you need to start plasma cutting or is just a regular powerplug enough? And what's the difference between a built in compressor and a non-built in compressor?

[@Welddotcom]

You will need an air compressor. Other than that, you are good to go.

[@bigred8438]

Thanks for your tutorial. Do all plasma cutters need to have a separate source of compressed air, or do some have a compressor on them?

[@drillab8515]

Some come with there own built in compressor it all depends what you want the machine for if it’s just going to be stationary or if you’ll want it to be more mobile it all really depends

[@kerrijodierberger]

Do you use gas a gas line to plasma cut, or is that just for welding? I’m a beginner, so not quite sure if I use gas or just my compressor

[@hmarillejla7]

Hi where can I can get that gadget to slip on the ceramic? What must I look for before buying? Tks

[@edwardgiovannelli5191]

I tried a bunch of different cutters, HF, Miller, Lincoln, and Hypertherm and FAR and AWAY the best cut came from the Hypertherm. I mean, not even close. Cut speed, depth and edge quality was in a completely different league with the hypertherm. I own mostly Miller welders, but when it comes to plasma cutting, Hypertherm is in a class by themselves. Look at the video at the 6:00 mark when he does that cut... the edge quality is HORRIBLE. My pm45 cuts a million times better, and it's four years old. Yeah, they're more expensive but they are SOOO worth it.

[@arthurl.1263]

I need some advice i have a tacoma truck with frame damage and i want to cut the frame up into sections to to scrap it. Whats the best way to cut it without making lots of noise? Plasma cutting or torch cutting?

[@kimmer6]

Plasma. Less sparks, no torch tip pop.Just a hiss of air and the neighbors won't have a clue.

[@shawnross6555]

hmm sounds like a their with a stolen truck to me.

[@kimvaughan8582]

Thanks Mr T. I appreciate it.

[@glennknox8880]

what is that wire gadget clipped to the tip for the stand off distance called and where can they be purchased thanks

[@johnbarnette3916]

what kind of compressor do we did and how do you set it up? John from Ga

[@Lovenpain]

Really John? You should know how we do this in GA.. welding and plasma cutting should be in our genome. Lol

[@ssmith7100]

Mr Tig, The air flow on that machine is it a gas or is it air from a air compressor?

[@liammiller4758]

Everlast plasma cutters use regular compressed air from a compressor.

[@samuelkyambo2091]

If you don't mind Mr. TIG, what is the cfm rating on the compressor you are using on this demonstration. Thanks

[@patturk7408]

Not to be rude, but that cut was done wrong. Your wire guide on the torch should directly rest on the work surface of your stock when cutting. It was spaced away three times more than it should have been since it seemed to be resting on the metal used as the guide. More than likely the reason for the sloppy cut. Still did well for a~25 amp cut that far away from the material.

[@nathanpieper2134]

I agree.

[@georgewashington8652]

you are correct!

[@nuttyjem]

when using a "DRAG TIP" the guide is not needed thats why there called drag tips and they have 4 little cut outs on the end of the tips and was there any thing in this video Mr Think-O..... i mean Mr TIG got right........ OH MY GOD this is why i hate youtube when it comes for looking for useful information its full of idiots that dont have a clue about what there talking about .......and oh Mr Think-O ..... i mean Mr TIG........ if you keep using plasma cutters the way you do there not going to last very long...... the tip must be within 1/4inch of your work to use the correct earth not the pre-light earth in the torch ... you may as well not even bother with ya earth clamp because its not doing anything the way your using it........ AND ITS CALLED A SWIRL RING not a insulator ring and ITS DROSS not "RECAST" and in your case you only get it when you dont know what the hell ya doing and should not be making videos offering advise or reviews...... oh and FYI about 35amp is a good place to be when using a 40amp drag tip you can start any where when using "ABOUT" 16g mild steel and move the torch about walking speed while dragging the tip on the steel and if you pritty much do the opposite to whats in this video you'll be fine OH 1 more thing MR Think-O........ dam i mean Mr Tig please re name this video to "HOW NOT TO Plasma Cut, for Beginners: Sheet Metal | TIG Time"

[@Lovenpain]

Jemma Kesterton hahahahaha so true man so true.. I claim to be no pro at this. But I did work for Osha. Safety should had been a primary portion of the “For BEGINNER” video. Like many, I saw that and was intrigued to see how a “professional” uses a plasma cutter vs myself. And I didn’t find anything really informative. Even though this is an old video. I would had at least had a follow up video on this subject. And my plasma cutter doesn’t have the unique features as yours. So I do agree talking about the different styles of cutters that are out there. Or explain the very basics of the machine and how it works... like turn it around and show us its other features. And the mess on that cut is what we refer as SLAG. Which surprises me that your a diehard welder, right?... ... 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@benjamin2041]

Thank you 🙏

[@johncoonradtjr.5141]

Is it good to cut galvanized sheet metal

[@darioushdadyan1288]

Insightful clip Thank you .

[@davidhunt3161]

Hi mr TIG, I am interested in buying a plasma cutter, I have a compressor it is 1.5 hp 6 liters capacity. 8 bar, will this compressor be able to drive a plasma machine ? Great videos you make things look so simple. Thanks David from Denmark

[@jamesbaxter2812]

Thanks. I need to know if there is a ground back to the machine

[@kdigiacomo]

Old message but yes there is a ground, same as a welder would have.

[@rich1953]

Keep in mind the 110V units need aprx 30 amp capable circuit. Not your average 110v plug in which is commonly 20 amp..

[@Seanfrtd]

i am in the market for a "budget" plasma cutter. trying to understand the input vs output amps. i have a 110v 15 amp socket/breaker. i also have a generator with 110v 20 amp and 220 30 amp sockets. (i also currently use the generator to run my air compressor). the question: to run a plasma cutter to cut thick material i am under the impression that you need to set the output amps on the plasma cutter higher. does my input amps also need to be higher? like to cut material thick enough to require 40 amps output do i need a 40-50 amp socket, breaker and wiring? (i am ignoring the input voltage because that part i understand).

[@born2flyau]

Wyatt, Can you please explain the difference between 110 volts & 220 volts. Is 110 single phase and 220 3 phase? I have heard 220 mentioned in a few of your videos but you make no mention as to whether it is single or 3 phase. Here in Australia we have 240 volts 50hz single phase and 415 volts 3 phase.

[@headwaycnc866]

The best tools for metal cutting are plasma cutting machine and optical fiber cutting machine. Compared with traditional flame cutting, plasma and optical fiber cutting machine cutting metal is more effective than traditional flame cutting, and it is very safe to operate only to the machine control panel to achieve metal plate cutting.

[@firstmaje2271]

I'm guessing that the plasma have + and -ion so if you put the torch in between two strong magnet the flame would split in two?

[@lightfighter540]

Where does the air come from? External tank or does it compress it's own?

[@SealofPerfection]

Air compressor

[@dungcao3478]

Thank you so much

[@girliedog]

Mr. Tig your an excellant instructor.

[@WaldoG-b9j]

Mr.tig my goal is to not supervise workers but supervise cnc plasma cutters and some tig experience I need to start a buisness

[@ibrahimsaleh3190]

So good thanks for all the great work and very well organized job

[@skab3295]

4:23 mark of the beast!

[@zanpekosak2383]

240V is the standard household voltage. 400V is the max and can do some cool stuff.

[@johnmood5653]

US Standard household voltage is 110V, you're obviously NOT from the USA.

[@zanpekosak2383]

Oh really? Didn't know that. BTW I'm from Europe.

[@Bodragon]

(0:50) - That's all well and good telling us to just pick one that works, try it out, test it. How am I meant to do that? They laughed me out of the store at Harbor Freight.

[@Erutan409]

HF only sells one kind of plasma cutter..?

[@robertmccully2792]

How do we try then out and test them if where not in the business.

[@celsofilipelourenco]

Hi, can a inverter tig machine work like a plasma cutter? thanks

[@Welddotcom]

celso Lourenço not unless it's a multi process unit that specifies plasma.

[@bbrinser]

Where did Mr. Tig go? Have not seen or heard from him in a while.

[@punked6]

Mr.Tig where do you buy sheet metal at?

[@alw1762]

Is a plasma cutter it's own machine or can I change the head and nozzle on my arc welder?

[@Welddotcom]

Alex Wilde A plasma cutter is a seperate machine unless you have a multi process unit, like the Everlast PowerPro 164.

[@kelliewood5245]

More videos with Everlast plasma cutters please. I'm thinking about buying one.

[@philipuren6380]

Thanks. Quite informative. So there is a ground? I have been surfing You-Tube tutorials and nobody mentions the ground return. Even Principles of Plasma cutting tell us about the electrical charges involved in plasma cutting but no mention of the return cable. Just one of those fundamental assumptions, I guess. Would be good to include it though as it is a part of the process. How many times has a welder tried to strike an arc (MIG, TIG, Stick welding) and realized they haven't connected the earth return.

[@alexandergarcia240]

Yes, it requires a work clamp. That everlast plasma cutter probably has its clamp on the table.

[@realtormail1]

u didnt name off what each of the consumables was called...also would like to know a good explanation of 2t vs 4t, u dont explain the piolet arc button hardly at all...also would like to know about different types of plasma cutters, high freq, vs non high freq ect...also i think u were a bit too far away from the metal when cutting..

[@reynaldovalle1773]

Hello mr. TIG I just found your channel on KZbin I would like to buy a plasma cutter but I can't afford an expensive one which one would you recommend for beginners I'm not looking for a professional one you think you could help me out on that part thank you I would appreciate it God bless you family and friends. It's going to be for home use only for me.

[@mkemadona]

Hi I need a little help choosing a air compressor for my Lincoln tomahawk 625 plasma. It says it needs 6-7.5bar of scfh. My compressed is rated at 5.7.. would I have any issues running this?

[@BryanAlvarrez]

Here because I'm a dead space fan :)

[@TheLokoViejo]

:INFILTRATIONZ : one if the Best games..one of those games that frustrate u but at the same time is satisfying

[@markrich3271]

2:50 What's the name of the part that wears out the most so I can buy replacement parts

[@MarvinLStohs]

Notice he is also good at palming parts as he puts them on

[@beginization]

what kind of air compressor do you need to power a plasma cutter

[@beginization]

Yes I think I will just buy a old one for now as I went and price a compressed air bottle and rent was too much. I have seen compressors with like a tank for $100 on ebay, but it all does cost alot as you forget about cost of argon and rent on bottle

[@rexhomsombath9199]

What shade glasses?

[@johntheaccountant5594]

What is the difference between 2T and 4T ?

[@rusty10162]

110 and 200 in the states are both single phase on 110 only 1 leg is hot on 220 2 legs are hot and both are 50 to 60 hrtz

[@rusty10162]

we can get 3 phase but it is only used in commercial not residential there are some special converters but they are pricey and not really worth it

[@thephilosophersstonebook8223]

how thick of sheet steel will the 115 volt cut?

[@najmudheenpv9771]

good one

[@C-right]

very good helped heaps

[@anthonymutua2510]

helooo , how long should a plasma elecrode last,

[@kdigiacomo]

It depends on how it's used. If you don't put that riser on the end and it touches the work piece then pretty quick. A lot of it depends on the person using the equipment. Probably not the best response you were hoping to get, but it's kinda difficult to say. At our shop we use ours a few times a week and haven't changed it in 2 years. But we take good care of it.

[@agustyo7436]

please show, if the TIG machine is made into a plasma machine Cut what can be done by replacing the plasma handlebar cut

[@born2flyau]

Thanks rusty10162, does the US offer 3 phase as an option? I have never heard 3 phase mentioned.

[@dunmegatate5778]

#Helpful #Informative

[@LearnerBoy]

I have no any idea about the Plasma cutting,please let us know is this work without any gas (oxygen or LPG etc.) ,

[@jedibarracuda8412]

Rafiqul Mowla yes it without lpg or oxygen all you need is compressed air

[@ILoveAmerica2424]

What compressor size does that particular Machine need?

[@j.a.mcbean.4043]

thanks for sharing

[@pjwoelfel11]

Some of you are a little confused. The width of the cut that the plasma arc removes as it cuts is called the kerf. This changes as the consumables wear. The stuff left behind after the cut is called dross. This can be minimized down to almost none at all with proper machine settings. Air pressure, amp setting, speed of cut and cut height are the variables. (assuming good consumables) This video is a terrible example of how well plasma CAN cut. My hypertherm powermax 85 has a cut height of .060...yes sixty thousandths! It also adjusts air pressure with the amperage setting. Feed rates should be published by your manufacturer. Get all these things close and you have a cut that looks like it came off a mill.