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Plasma Cutters

Lincoln Electric Plasma Cutting Equipment: The Perfect Tool for Precision Cutting

A plasma cutter is a tool that uses a high-temperature, high-velocity jet of ionized gas (plasma) to cut through metal. It works by passing an electric arc through a gas, typically compressed air or nitrogen, which then ionizes the gas and creates a plasma stream that can cut through metal.

Here are the general steps for using a plasma cutter:

  1. Choose the right plasma cutter. Choose a plasma cutter that is appropriate for the thickness and type of metal you will be cutting. Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific plasma cutter.

  2. Set up your workspace. Work in a well-ventilated area, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and ensure that your workpiece is securely clamped in place.

  3. Prepare the plasma cutter. Connect the plasma cutter to a compressed air or nitrogen source and adjust the amperage and gas flow settings according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

  4. Mark your cut. Use a straight edge or a guide to mark the cut you want to make on the metal.

  5. Turn on the plasma cutter. Turn on the plasma cutter and wait for it to reach the appropriate operating temperature.

  6. Place the plasma cutter on the metal. Hold the plasma cutter with both hands and place the tip of the plasma torch at the starting point of your cut, with the nozzle perpendicular to the metal.

  7. Pull the trigger. Press the trigger on the plasma cutter to start the flow of gas and electricity. Move the plasma cutter along the marked line, keeping the nozzle perpendicular to the metal and the tip about 1/8 inch away from the surface.

  8. Finish the cut. Once you've completed the cut, release the trigger and turn off the plasma cutter.

  9. Inspect your cut. Check the quality of the cut to make sure it is clean and free of defects. If necessary, make any adjustments or repairs.

Plasma cutting can be a dangerous activity, so it's important to take safety precautions. Make sure you wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, a welding helmet, and flame-resistant clothing. Work in a well-ventilated area and be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your plasma cutter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Lincoln plasma cutters are in this collection?
This collection includes Lincoln Electric's handheld air plasma line sold through preferred dealers: the Tomahawk 30 AIR (K5457-1, internal compressor), Tomahawk 45 (K5458-1, 20 ft. torch), and Tomahawk 1000 (K2808-1, 25 ft. torch) and Tomahawk 1500 (K3477-1/K3477-2). These are air-plasma cutters designed for shop and field cutting of steel, stainless, and aluminum.
What material thickness can Lincoln plasma cutters handle?
Cutting capacity depends on the model's amperage. The Tomahawk 45 handles up to approximately 1/2 in. (12 mm) mild steel on a clean cut; the Tomahawk 1000 and 1500 are higher-amperage units designed for thicker plate. For severance (rough cuts), plasma can go somewhat deeper than the rated clean-cut thickness. Always check the spec sheet for your specific model's rated clean-cut and maximum severance thickness.
Do these plasma cutters require an external air compressor?
Most Lincoln Tomahawk plasma cutters require an external air compressor delivering clean, dry compressed air β€” typically 90–120 PSI at 4–6 CFM depending on amperage. The Tomahawk 30 AIR (K5457-1) is an exception: it includes an internal compressor so no external air supply is needed, making it ideal for remote or mobile use. For the other models, moisture and oil in the air supply will destroy consumables quickly, so use a good filter/regulator.
What consumables are compatible with Lincoln Tomahawk plasma cutters?
Tomahawk plasma cutters use Lincoln FlexCut PRO consumable kits (KP5829 drag-cut series for handheld use). Match the kit amperage to your cutter's output β€” e.g., the 65A kit for a 65A torch setting, the 85A kit for higher-amperage cutting. Individual consumable components (electrodes, nozzles, shield caps, swirl rings) are also available separately in the KP586x/587x/588x/589x range for targeted replacement.