How to Set the Air Pressure & Amperage on a Plasma Cutter

Plasma cutters operate by using an inert gas and an electric arc to produce superheated plasma material capable of cutting through most metals. Nearly all plasma cutters feature controls for adjusting the air pressure delivered and amount of power generated by the device. These controls are adjusted in tandem, as an increase in air pressure and amperage provides an increase in plasma speed and cutting pressure. Careful adjustment of these controls is paramount to the safe, effective use of the plasma cutter.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Locate the pressure regulator knob on top of the unit near the air supply inlet.

   • 2

     Turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the air pressure. Monitor the air pressure gauge located on the plasma cutter while adjusting the air pressure.

   • 3

     Locate the power supply dial at the front of the unit. On some units, the dial may be marked ̶0;Current.̶1;

   • 4

     Turn the dial toward the ̶0;MIN̶1; or ̶0;MAX̶1; to adjust the amperage. Monitor the amps meter while adjusting the amperage to avoid overloading the plasma cutter.