In the world of modern metal fabrication, plasma cutting is ubiquitous. The low cost, ease of use, and capabilities of plasma cutting systems make them practical for a wide variety of everyday uses. That hasn’t always been the case, however.
Keep reading to learn the history of plasma cutting and what we are doing today!
Plasma Cutting Timeline
Plasma cutting has come a long way over the years from its original creation in 1957. Which is lucky for us.
New technology has been invented and perfected to make plasma cutting more efficient and cost-effective.
How Plasma Cutting Evolved to the Current-Day State:
In order to fully appreciate how far plasma cutting technology has come, we have to first look at where it all began. Back before there were cordless phones or even zip ties, Dr. Robert Gage invented plasma cutting.
(Plasma Cutting History Flowchart: click to enlarge)
As you can see, over the past sixty-four years, plasma cutting systems have become more capable, less expensive, and far easier to operate. Cut speed and quality are far above and beyond what Union Carbide could have imagined in 1957.
Cutting systems that once took up an entire room may now be slung over an operator’s shoulder and carried up a ladder. Technology that once only the largest of corporations could afford is now priced affordably to even the most price-conscious of consumers. Oxy-fuel torches, once a go-to, now collect dust in many fabrication and repair shops.
Plasma Cutting Present
Now in 2022, we have an expansive line of plasma cutting technology including our Heliocut™ Consumables, CleanCut™ Consumables, and PHD™ and PHDX™ Torches.
Our consumable technology is changing the game of plasma cutting tips by reducing plasma arc turbulence with a high-velocity configuration and stabilizing and accelerating the gas column.
Plasma cutting has never been easier with consumables and torches that allow you to produce ultra-smooth cuts with less than 2º bevel. Additionally, our current consumables are made to double the life of your consumables and torches to reduce downtime and save you money.
The Future of Plasma Cutting
What will the future bring for plasma cutting technology? Nobody knows, but it is a safe bet to say that this shop staple isn’t going to disappear anytime soon.
Learn more about our plasma cutting technology’s unmatched capabilities and make the switch today!
To learn more about plasma cutting technology you can read our welding blogs or checkout out our Plasma Troubleshooting Guide!
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