DIY plasma cutter from a welding inverter. Making a homemade plasma cutter from a welding inverter. Making a CNC plasma cutter with your own hands

Plasma cutter assembly
How does a plasma cutter work?

Do-it-yourself plasma cutter from an inverter is not so difficult to assemble. It is important to provide the following elements:

plasma torch, i.e. directly plasma cutter;
power source, which is a welding inverter (a transformer can also be used);
compressor for supplying a cooling air jet and forming a plasma flow;
cable hoses for assembling and connecting individual elements into a single system.

A plasma cutter can be used not only for cutting various parts, but also for welding.

A homemade plasma cutter can be used to perform a variety of jobs. This is not only production, but also household work, for example, processing of various metal workpieces, where precise, thin and high-quality cuts are required. There are models that can be used for welding in a protected gas environment using argon.

The operating principle of a metal plasma cutting machine.

When assembling, attention should be paid to the current strength. The value depends on the power source; they prefer to use an inverter. It provides more stable operation, energy consumption is more economical than that of a transformer, although the thickness of the workpieces with which it can work is lower. Why an inverter? The thing is that it is more convenient to use than a transformer. Its weight is less, it is not so massive. Less electricity is consumed, while the efficiency is 10% higher, which has a positive effect on the quality of work.

Schemes for assembly can be used ready-made if the structural elements are purchased all together. You can take it from the Internet, especially when you already have all the parts and don’t need to buy anything. When assembling, attention should be paid to the accuracy and clarity of compliance with the diagram and the connection of individual elements. The nozzle should be long, but not too long, as it will have to be replaced quickly.

Selection of structural elements

Making a plasma cutter with your own hands from an inverter requires the following elements:

The power source for the equipment, in this capacity, is the inverter, which supplies current with the necessary characteristics to the plasma cutter. Instead of an inverter, if it is not available or cannot be found, you can use a transformer.
If a transformer is chosen instead of an inverter, it is necessary to take into account its heavy weight and too high power consumption.
Plasma torch, i.e. plasma cutter, which is the main element of the design.
Air compressor and cable-hose package.

Types of plasma cutters.

What to choose as a current source for assembling a plasma cutter? A transformer is not the best option for a number of reasons. This is not only because of its heavy weight, which makes it difficult to use the equipment after assembly, but also because it consumes too much electricity. The device turns out to be too expensive. Among the advantages, it should be noted that it is weakly sensitive to voltage changes in the network during operation. Such equipment can cut various workpieces, the thickness of which is significant.

An inverter as a power source is more preferable, it is more economical, and its cost is lower. In addition, the weight of the inverter is much less, and the device is easier to use after assembly. But the thickness of the workpieces cannot be too large. Such plasma cutters can be used in home workshops, in small production, since the power is quite enough for such a “modest” production. There is one more advantage in favor of the first. This is a level of efficiency that is approximately 30% higher for an inverter cutter, the arc is more stable, and the cutting quality is better. Such equipment is also more convenient for working in hard-to-reach places where transformers cannot be used. The plasma torch is the main element of the cutter; its design includes a nozzle, an air supply channel (compressed to ensure cutting), an electrode, and an insulator/cooler.

Return to contents

Scheme of plasma welding with an open and closed plasma jet.

For a plasma torch, you need to select an electrode; it can be purchased from thorium, beryllium, zirconium or hafnium. Such materials are optimal for air plasma cutting. So-called refractory oxides appear on the surface of the electrodes during the cutting process; they prevent the electrode from being destroyed. When choosing, remember that some of these metals are dangerous for the welder. Beryllium causes the formation of radioactive oxides, and thorium causes toxic ones. It is best to use hafnium, it is absolutely safe for the operator.

When assembling, attention should be paid to the nozzle, with the help of which the cutting jet is formed. The jet characteristics, cutting time, and cutting width depend on the nozzle diameter. It is best to use products with a diameter of 3 cm; its length should be significant to ensure a better and more accurate cut. However, you cannot take a nozzle that is too long; it quickly collapses.

A compressor is required to supply air to the structure. The operating features of the cutter suggest that gases will be used for protection and plasma formation, while the work is carried out at a current of 200 A, but no more. To operate the device, compressed air is used; it is necessary to cool the equipment during operation and to form plasma. This option allows you to cut workpieces whose thickness is 50 mm. For industrial equipment, compressed air is not used; oxygen, helium, hydrogen, argon, nitrogen, and their mixtures are used here.

A special cable-hose package is used to connect the power source, plasma torch and compressor. The assembly order is as follows:

An inverter (or transformer) is connected by an electrical cable to an electrode to create an arc.
Compressed air is supplied through the hose from the compressor, it forms a plasma jet inside the plasma torch.

Return to contents

Scheme of operation of a plasma cutter.

After the plasma cutter is assembled, you need to check its performance. When turned on, the inverter begins to supply current to the plasmatron at a high frequency. An arc appears, its temperature at this moment ranges from 6000°C to 8000°C, it ignites between the nozzle tip and the working electrode. Next, compressed air begins to flow into the chamber, it passes through the electric arc from the nozzle, heats up, and increases in volume up to 100 times. The jet acquires conductive properties and is ionized.

The nozzle forms a narrow working flow, the speed of which is 2-3 m/sec. The temperature at this time rises greatly and can reach from 25,000°C to 30,000°C. The output produces high-temperature plasma used for cutting. When the plasma and the part come into contact, the initial duty arc goes out, and the cutting arc is lit, which processes the part locally. The metal melts only at the cut site; all molten metal particles are blown away by the air flow.

Using such a cutter from a conventional welding inverter allows you to get neat cuts in metal workpieces. During operation, it is necessary to ensure that the arc spot is strictly in the center of the cathode/electrode, for which the so-called tangential supply of the working air flow is used. If such an air vortex flow is disrupted during operation, the device will begin to operate unstably and the quality of the cut will greatly deteriorate. It is important that during operation two arcs do not form at once, in which case the device will simply fail. The plasma cutter should not have too much air flow.

The speed that ensures good quality is 800 m/sec, but the current should be up to 250 A, not higher.

But we must take into account that air consumption will be increased.

A plasma cutter, the main element of which is an inverter for arc welding, is used for cutting metal workpieces. The assembly is simple; the design includes such elements as a current source, a nozzle, a plasma cutter, and a compressor. When assembling, you should immediately decide on the power source; instead of an inverter, some prefer a transformer. All the advantages and disadvantages of the devices have been described above, you just have to make a choice.

expertsvarki.ru

Homemade plasma cutter from an inverter welding machine: diagram and assembly procedure

Metal cutting is carried out in several ways - mechanically, arc welding or exposure to high-temperature plasma. In the latter case, an inverter can be used as a power source. To make an effective plasma cutter with your own hands, you will need to familiarize yourself with the diagram and operating principle of the device.

Plasma cutter diagram

Processing of metal surfaces, their cutting and controlled deformation occurs using a jet of air or inert gas. Pressure and the presence of a flammable component (electrode) ensures the formation of a plasma region. It exerts high temperature and pressure on the workpiece area, resulting in its cutting.

Features of manufacturing a plasma cutter based on an inverter welding machine:

Preliminary calculation of equipment power. The determining parameter is the thickness and properties of the material being cut.
Mobility of the structure and its dimensions.
Duration of continuous cutting.
Budget.

The latter indicator should not affect the quality, and most importantly, the safety of operation of a homemade plasma cutter. It is recommended to use maximum factory-made components.

An inverter welding machine is a source of arc for igniting plasma. It is also used for its intended purpose - the formation of connecting seams. To complete the plasma cutter, you need to purchase only factory models, since homemade ones will not be able to ensure stable operation.

To ensure mobility, you need to buy an inverter with argon arc welding function. Its design provides space for connecting a hose from a source of air or inert gas. The average cost is 19,500 rubles.

Additionally you will need the following components:

Cutter with the function of supplying electricity, wire (electrode) and air.
Compressor. It is needed to pump gas; an alternative is refilled cylinders.
Cable-hose package. These are lines for electricity, an air hose and a wire feeder.

Of the entire list, you can only make a handle for the cutter with your own hands. It is this that most often fails due to constant temperature exposure. The dimensions and performance properties of the remaining components must meet quality standards.

Step-by-step assembly instructions

In fact, the plasma cutter is not manufactured, but assembled from the elements described above. The possibility of connecting individual components is first checked, operating modes are specified - the amount of current supplied from the inverter, the intensity of the air stream, and the plasma temperature.

Additionally, you need to use a pressure gauge to monitor the pressure in the air line. The optimal location is on the inverter housing. On the holder it will interfere with the precise formation of the cut.

Operating procedure:

Check the inverter power supply.
Check the tightness of the air line.
Set the pressure of the inert gas jet to the required level.
Connect the negative electrode of the inverter to the workpiece.
Checking the arc, activating the air supply.
Plasma cutting.

During the cutting process, problems arise - lack of components, unstable installation mode. The likely consequences are the inability to continue work, poor-quality cutting. The solution is to carefully prepare for this event.

Spare gaskets for the air line. Frequent switching leads to their abrasion and loss of tightness.
Nozzle quality. With prolonged exposure to temperature, it can become clogged and change its geometry.
Electrodes are made only from refractory materials.
The reason for the breakdown of homemade cutters is the occurrence of 2 air vortices, which leads to deformation of the nozzle.
Be sure to carry out work only in protective clothing.

ismith.ru

Do-it-yourself plasma cutter from an inverter: drawings, manufacturing instructions:

Making a plasma cutter from an inverter with your own hands is a task that almost any good owner can do. One of the main advantages of this device is that after cutting with such a device there will be no need for additional processing of the edges of metal sheets.

Direct acting devices

Currently, there are many options for manual plasma cutters, as well as many different options for how they work. One such setup is the direct action cutter. The operation of this type of device is based on the use of an electric arc. This arc has the form of a cylinder to which a gas stream is supplied. It is due to this unusual design that this device can reach a colossal temperature of approximately 20,000 degrees. In addition, this device is capable of not only developing enormous temperatures, but also quickly cooling other working elements.

Indirect action device

Indirect installations are not used as often as direct ones. The thing is that they are characterized by a lower efficiency, that is, efficiency.

The design of these tools is also quite specific and consists in the fact that the active points of the circuit are placed either on a pipe or on a special tungsten electrode. These devices have become quite widely used when it is necessary to spray or heat metal parts. However, this type of equipment is not used as a plasma cutter. Most often they are used to repair automotive components without removing them from the body.

The peculiarities of the operation of such cutters also include the fact that they can only work if there is an air filter, as well as a cooler. The presence of air filters in this device ensures a longer service life of elements such as the cathode and anode, and also affects the acceleration of the process of starting the mechanism.

Hand tool design

In order to ensure that a plasma cutter from an inverter performs all the necessary functions with your own hands, you need to understand the basic principle of operation. The entire functionality of the device depends on the supply of highly heated air from the cutter to the sheet of metal. The temperature conditions that need to be created are several tens of thousands of degrees. When oxygen is heated to such limits, it is supplied under pressure from the cutter to the surface that needs to be cut. It is this work process that is fundamental. Metal sheets are cut using highly heated oxygen under high pressure.

In order to speed up this process, it is necessary to take into account ionization by electric current. It is also important to note that you can increase the service life of a plasma cutter made with your own hands from an inverter if the device contains some additional parts.

Additional items

There are a total of five main elements that must be included in the design of a plasma cutter.

The first and main part is the plasmatron. It is this element that is responsible for performing all the main functions of the cutter.
Next comes the plasma cutter. The design of this element can be done in two ways - direct or indirect. The difference between these designs is described above.
It is also important to have electrodes as consumables for a plasma cutter.
One of the most important parts was the nozzle. The configuration of this particular element allows the master to understand what kind of metal sheet this cutter is intended for cutting.
Compressor. The need for this detail is quite understandable. Since cutting requires oxygen to be supplied under high pressure, the presence of this device is vital for the functioning of the device as a whole.

Parts selection

In order to make a plasma cutter with your own hands from an inverter, you need to decide which elements to create it from.

The part that will create the necessary power for cutting can be an inverter or transformer. When choosing this element of the device, it is very important to understand exactly what thickness of metal will need to be cut. It is the thickness of the metal that will be the fundamental factor that will influence the choice of this part. Since a manual cutter is being assembled, it is, of course, better to purchase a welding inverter. Its power is slightly less than that of a transformer, but it is much lighter and will save a large amount of electricity.

The second important detail will be the choice between a plasma cutter or a plasma point. The main selection criterion here will be the same factor as when selecting a welding inverter, that is, the thickness of the metal. However, one more nuance needs to be taken into account. Direct impact equipment is designed to work with elements capable of conducting current. The indirect element is most often installed if it is necessary to do without things that use current in the work.

Another important element is the compressor. Its choice is already simpler, since the only important requirement is power, which must fit the previously selected parts.

The last piece is the cable-hose package. Designed to connect all the parts given above.

Operating principle

In order to create a good working tool of this type, it is very important to understand the operating principle and design of the plasma cutter. This device works as follows:

When the equipment starts up, the current source begins to generate the required voltage, which is transmitted through the cable to the torch-torch.
There are two main elements in a plasmatron (cutter-torch) - a cathode and an anode. An arc will be initiated between these two parts.
A powerful stream of air, which moves under high pressure, and also overcomes special twisted cables, brings the arc out. At the same time, the supplied air greatly increases the arc temperature.
Next, the ground cable comes into play, which is always connected to the device in advance. It creates an arc closure on the working surface, which ensures stable operation of the plasma cutter.
It is important to note that when converting an inverter into a plasma cutter, welding remains possible. That is, the cutter can also be used as a welding machine. In this case, it is best to use argon as the main gas or another inert mixture that can protect the weld pool from environmental influences.

Cutter device

Since the temperature of the arc is artificially increased by supplying hot air, its temperature in a homemade plasma cutter can reach 8,000 degrees. This is a very high temperature indicator, which allows for spot cutting of metal without heating other parts of the sheet. Like any other technical devices, plasma cutters made from an inverter with your own hands will differ in their power, which will determine how thick a sheet of steel the device can cut. Hand cutters can most often cut sheets up to 10 mm thick. Industrial units are capable of handling metal 100 mm thick. A homemade plasma cutter made on your own will be able to cut sheets with a thickness of up to 12 mm.

Such products can be used for figure cutting, as well as welding alloy steels with filler wire. The simplest cutters include four main parts - power source, plasma torch, compressor, mass.

How to make a plasma cutter?

Assembling this device should always start with the power source. In industrial units, a transformer is used to achieve more power and, therefore, cut thicker metal. For a manual home cutter, a regular inverter is perfect, as it can provide such indicators as stable voltage and high frequency. The advantage of using an inverter will be its light weight, which will make the device more convenient for transportation, and it is also quite capable of ensuring stable burning of the torch arc and the quality of the cutting itself.

In addition, the inverter must meet several more requirements:

Its power supply must be supplied from a 220V network.
The cutter should operate with a power of 4 kW.
The current adjustment range for a manual device should be from 20 to 40 A.
Idling is also 220V.
The nominal operating mode for a 10-minute cycle should not exceed 60%.

In order to achieve all these parameters, it is necessary to use certain additional equipment.

Plasma cutter diagram

In order to make a working device, it is necessary to consult the diagram of this device. You can easily find such a diagram on the Internet, but you still need to read it. To do this, you need to have the most minimal knowledge in electrical engineering. It is the correct assembly according to the diagram that ensures the actual operation of the unit.

Product circuit operation

Do-it-yourself assembly of a plasma cutter according to a drawing is the most important process that will ensure stable operation of the device in the future. The finished and correctly assembled circuit looks like this:

The plasma torch has a button that starts the entire workflow. Pressing this button will activate relay P1. The function of this element is to supply current to the control unit.
Next, relay P2 is switched on. It performs tasks such as starting current to the inverter and simultaneously turning on the solenoid valve, which purges the burner. This blowing is necessary in order to dry the burner chamber and clean it of possible debris or scale.
After a three second delay, relay P3 is turned on, which supplies current to the electrodes.
Together with the activation of this relay, an oscillator is started, which ionizes the air between the cathode and the anode, thereby exciting a pilot electric arc.
When the flame is brought to the product, an arc is ignited between the sheet and the plasma torch, which is called the working arc.
At this moment, the current supply that operates for ignition is cut off.
Next, work is carried out on cutting or welding the metal.
Upon completion of work and pressing the button on the plasma torch, relay P4 is activated, which turns off both arcs and also turns on the air supply to the burner chamber for a short period of time to remove burnt elements.

Plasma torch, electrodes, compressor

Cutting or welding of metal is carried out by an element such as a plasma torch. Making it water-based on your own is very problematic, and therefore it is better to buy it. Plasmatrons with an air system are most often made with their own hands.

For this, a compressor is required, which is responsible for blowing and heating the arc to the required 8,000 degrees. This element also performs a cleaning function in the cutter, drying it and clearing it of unwanted elements and debris. As a compressor, you can use a part used in a conventional spray gun.

An important part of a homemade cutter will be the electrodes used. When purchasing them, it is important to clarify what material they are made of. Beryllium and thorium emit harmful fumes when used. It is better to use them only in a special environment where human safety is guaranteed. The best choice for a home cutter would be hafnium electrodes.

www.syl.ru

DIY plasma cutter

Plasma cutting is a fairly popular operation, especially when it comes to cutting thick metal parts or workpieces. The process happens quickly, the edges of the metal remain smooth. But such a device is not cheap. Therefore, many craftsmen make a plasma cutter for themselves with their own hands from different types of equipment, combining them into one design. Their connection diagram is simple, the main thing is to choose the right devices according to the required technical characteristics.

Plasma Cutting Basics

Plasma cutting is based on ionized gas, which flies out of the torch nozzle at high speed. This gas is that same plasma. What is she doing?

Essentially, this ionized medium is an excellent conductor of electric current, which flows from the electrode to the metal workpiece.
The plasma heats the metal to the required temperature.
It blows away the molten metal and frees up the cutting space.

This means that to create plasma, you need gas and a source of electricity. And these two components must come together in one place. Therefore, plasma cutting equipment consists of a gas cylinder, a high-power source of electricity and a cutter in which the electrode is installed.

The design of the cutter is made in such a way that gas passes around the electrode and, when heated from the electrode, escapes out through a small hole. The small diameter of the hole and gas pressure create the necessary speed for the plasma. When making homemade plasma cutting, you just need to purchase a ready-made cutter and not think about creating it. Because everything has already been thought out, plus the factory version is a guarantee of safety.

As for gas, all options have long been abandoned, leaving compressed air. You can get it today very simply - purchase and install a compressor.

There are certain conditions that guarantee the quality of plasma cutting.

The current strength at the electrode should not be less than 250 A.
Compressed air must be supplied to the cutter at a speed within 800 m/sec.

How to make a plasma cutter with your own hands

The basics of plasma cutting are clear, the design of the plasma cutter is also clear, and you can start assembling it. By the way, you don’t need special drawings for this.

So what will be needed.

We need to find a source of electricity. The simplest option is a welding transformer or inverter. For many reasons, an inverter is better. For example, it has a stable current value, without drops. It is more economical in terms of energy consumption. You will have to pay attention to the current that the welding machine produces. Its value should not be less than 250 amperes.
Source of compressed air. The compressor remains unchanged here. But which one? The main parameter is air pressure. You will need to pay attention to him. 2.0-2.5 atm. - it will be fine.
The cutter can be purchased at the store. And this will be the ideal solution. If you have a cutter for argon welding, then it can be converted for plasma cutting. To do this, you will have to make an attachment from copper in the form of a nozzle, which is inserted into the argon welding cutter.
A set of hoses and cables for connecting all parts of a homemade plasma cutter. Again, the kit can be purchased in the store as a single connecting element.

Here are the four elements with which a homemade plasma cutter is assembled.

Auxiliary elements and materials

What else should you pay attention to when assembling a plasma cutting machine with your own hands? As mentioned above, the main characteristic of a plasma cutter is the diameter of its hole. What size should it be to ensure maximum cutting quality? Experts believe that a diameter of 30 mm is the optimal size. Therefore, when buying a cutter in a store, you need to pay attention to whether it comes with a nozzle with such a hole.

In addition, it is necessary to select a nozzle with a significant length. It is this size that allows the jet of compressed air to gain the required speed. This results in a neat metal cut, and the cutting process itself is quick and easy. But you shouldn’t buy a very long nozzle. Such a device quickly collapses under the influence of high temperatures.

As for choosing an electrode for a plasma cutter, you need to pay attention to the alloy from which it is made. For example, if the alloy contains beryllium, then it is a radioactive substance. It is not recommended to work with such electrodes for a long time. If the alloy contains thorium, it releases toxic substances at high temperatures. An ideal electrode for plasma cutting, the alloy of which includes hafnium.

Checking the plasma cutter

So, the hoses connect the cutter and the compressor, the cable cutter and the inverter. Now you need to check whether the assembled structure works. All units are turned on, the button on the cutter to supply electricity to the electrode is pressed. In this case, an arc is formed with a temperature of 6000-8000C. It slips between the metal of the electrode and the nozzle.

After this, compressed air begins to flow into the cutter. Passing through the nozzle and heated by an electric arc, it sharply expands tenfold and at the same time acquires conductive properties. That is, it turns out to be an ionized gas.

It passes through a narrowed nozzle, while acquiring a speed of 2-3 m/sec. But the plasma temperature rises to 25000-30000C. The most important thing is that the arc, with the help of which the compressed air was heated and turned into plasma, goes out as soon as the plasma begins to act on the metal workpiece prepared for cutting. But immediately the second, so-called working arc is turned on, which acts locally on the metal. Exactly in the cutting area. Therefore, metal is cut only in this zone.

If, when checking the operation of the plasma cutter, you were able to cut metal with a thickness of at least 20 mm, then all the elements of the new design, assembled with your own hands, were selected correctly. It is necessary to note that the plasma cutter cannot cut workpieces with a thickness of more than 20 mm from the inverter. It just doesn't have enough power. To cut thicker metal, you will have to use a transformer.

Attention! Any work related to the use of plasma cutting must be carried out wearing protective clothing and gloves.

There are many points that necessarily affect the operation of the unit.

There is no need to purchase, for example, a large compressor. But 2-2.5 atmospheres may not be enough for a large amount of work. The way out is to install a receiver on the compressor. It works like an accumulator that accumulates pressure in compressed air. For this purpose, you can use, for example, bolts from the brake systems of heavy-duty vehicles. The option is actually simple. The volume of the cylinder is large, and it should be enough for a long period of time.
To ensure that the air pressure is stable and uniform, a reducer must be installed at the receiver outlet.
Of course, the optimal solution is to purchase a compressor complete with a receiver. It costs more than usual, but if this unit is used for other things, for example, for painting, then you can increase its functionality and thereby cover the costs.
To make a mobile version of the machine, you can make a small trolley. After all, all the elements of a plasma cutter are small devices. Of course, you will have to forget about mobility if the machine is made on the basis of a welding transformer. It's too big and heavy.
If you can’t buy a ready-made hose-cable kit, you can make it yourself. You need to combine the welding cable and high-pressure hose into one sleeve and place them in a single sheath. For example, into a regular hose of larger diameter. A set made in this way simply will not get in the way, which is very important when cutting metals.

Making your own plasma cutter is not difficult at all. Of course, you will need to obtain the necessary information and study it; it is definitely recommended to watch the training video. And after that, correctly select all the elements exactly to the required parameters. By the way, the assembled plasma cutter based on a serial inverter makes it possible not only to carry out plasma cutting of metals, but also plasma welding, which increases the functionality of the unit.

A plasma cutting machine is a fairly popular piece of equipment that allows cutting any metals in many areas of production. Plasma cutters are used not only in enterprises. Recently, they have begun to appear in home workshops. But, since almost every workshop already has welding machines, it would be wiser not to buy a ready-made plasma cutter, but to make one from an inverter with your own hands.

In some cases, a plasma cutter is an indispensable tool for processing metal products, since the temperature of the plasma leaving its torch reaches 25-30 thousand degrees. Thanks to these characteristics, the scope of application of plasma cutters is quite extensive:

production of various types of metal structures;
laying of pipelines;
fast cutting of any metals, including high-alloy heat-resistant steels containing titanium, nickel and molybdenum, the melting point of which is above 3000°C;
shaped cutting of thin-sheet materials (conductive) due to high cutting accuracy.

In addition, plasma cutters (as an alternative to laser cutters) are used as part of automatic lines at large enterprises for cutting parts of various configurations from sheet materials.

It is necessary to distinguish between concepts such as plasma cutting and plasma welding. The latter is available only on expensive, professional equipment, the cost of which starts from 100 thousand rubles.

Inverter or transformer

There are various methods, as well as drawings and diagrams, according to which you can make a plasma cutter. For example, if it is made on the basis of a transformer welder, then the plasma cutter diagram provided below is suitable, which describes in detail what parts are needed to manufacture this module.

If you already have an inverter, then in order to convert it into a plasma cutter, you will need a little modification, namely adding an oscillator to the electrical circuit of the device. It is connected between the inverter and the plasma torch in two ways, as shown in the following figure.

The oscillator can be soldered independently according to the diagram provided below.

If you make a plasma cutter yourself, then choosing a transformer as a current source is not recommended for several reasons:

the unit consumes a lot of electricity;
The transformer is heavy and inconvenient to transport.

Despite this, the welding transformer also has positive qualities, for example, insensitivity to voltage changes. It can also cut thick metal.

But advantages of an inverter plasma cutting machine in front of the transformer unit there is:

light weight;
high efficiency (30% higher than that of a transformer);
low electricity consumption;
High-quality cutting thanks to a more stable arc.

Therefore, it is preferable to make a plasma cutter from a welding inverter than from a transformer.

Typical plasma cutter design

To assemble a device that will make air plasma cutting of metals possible, you will need to have the following components available.

Power supply. Required to supply electric current to the burner electrode. The power source can be either a transformer (welding) that produces alternating current, or an inverter-type welding unit, the output of which is direct current. Based on the above, it is preferable to use an inverter, and with an argon welding function. In this case, it will have a connector for connecting the hose package and a place for connecting the gas hose, which will simplify the modification of the device.
Plasma torch (cutter). It is a very important piece of equipment that has a complex design. In a plasma torch, a plasma jet is formed under the influence of an electric current and a directed air flow. If you decide to assemble a plasma cutter with your own hands, then it is better to purchase this element ready-made on Chinese websites.
. Required for effective arc ignition and stabilization. As mentioned above, it is soldered according to a simple scheme. But if you are not strong in radio, then this module can be bought in China for 1,400 rubles.
Designed to create an air flow entering the burner. Thanks to it, the plasma torch is cooled, the plasma temperature rises and the molten metal is blown away from the cut site on the workpiece. For homemade work, any compressor that is usually connected to a spray gun is suitable. But to remove water vapor from the air pumped by the compressor, you will need to install a filter drier.
. Through it, current flows into the burner, facilitating the ignition of the electric arc and ionization of gases. Compressed air is also supplied to the burner through this hose. You can make a hose cable yourself by placing an electrical cable and an oxygen hose inside, for example, a water hose of a suitable diameter. But it’s still better to buy a ready-made hose package, which will have all the elements for connecting to the plasmatron and to the unit.
Ground cable. It has a clamp at the end for attaching to the metal being processed.

Assembling the device

After all the necessary elements have been prepared, you can begin assembling the plasma cutter:

connect a hose to the inverter through which air will be supplied from the compressor;
connect the hose package and ground cable to the front side of the inverter;
Connect the torch (plasma torch) to the hose package.

After assembling all the elements, you can begin equipment testing. To do this, connect the ground cable to the part or metal table on which it is placed. Turn on the compressor and wait until it pumps the required amount of air into the receiver. After the compressor automatically turns off, turn on the inverter. Bring the torch close to the metal and press the start button to create an electric arc between the torch electrode and the workpiece. Under the influence of oxygen, it will turn into a stream of plasma, and metal cutting will begin.

In order for a homemade plasma cutter from a welding inverter to work effectively and for a long time, you should listen to the advice of specialists related to the operation of the device.

Recommended to have a certain number of gaskets which are used to connect hoses. Their presence should especially be checked when the unit has to be transported frequently. In some cases, the absence of the necessary gasket will make the device impossible to use.
Because the cutter nozzle is exposed to high temperatures, it will wear out and fail over time. Therefore, you should worry about purchasing spare nozzles.
When selecting components for a plasma cutter, you should consider how much power you want to get from the unit. First of all, this concerns the choice of a suitable inverter.
When choosing an electrode for a burner, if you make it yourself, you need to give preference to a material such as hafnium. This material does not emit harmful substances during heating. But it is still strongly recommended to use ready-made cutters manufactured at the factory, in which all parameters for air flow swirl are observed. A homemade plasmatron does not guarantee high-quality cutting and quickly breaks down.

As for safety rules, work should be carried out in special clothing that protects against splashes of hot metal. You should also wear chameleon welding goggles to protect your eyes.

Plasma cutters are widely used in enterprises working with non-ferrous metals. Unlike ordinary steel, which can be cut with a propane-oxygen flame, stainless steel or aluminum cannot be processed in this way, due to the greater thermal conductivity of the material. When attempting to cut with a conventional flame, a wide part of the surface is exposed to heat, which leads to deformation in this area. A plasma cutter is capable of point heating of metal, producing cutting with a minimum cutting width. When using filler wire, the machine can, on the contrary, weld non-ferrous types of steel. But this equipment is quite expensive. How to assemble a plasma cutter yourself from a welding inverter? On what principle does the device work? What is the equipment layout? Is it possible to make a cutter gun yourself, or is it better to buy this item? The following discusses the answers to these questions, including a topical video.

You can make a plasma cutter from an inverter with your own hands if you have a good understanding of the operating principle of the device and the elements involved in the process. The essence of the functioning of the plasma cutter is as follows:

The current source generates the necessary voltage, which is supplied through cables to the torch torch (plasma torch).
The plasma torch contains two electrodes (cathode and anode), between which an arc is excited.
The air flow, supplied under pressure and special twisted channels, directs the electric arc outward, while simultaneously increasing its temperature. Other models use a liquid that evaporates and creates release pressure. The resulting high-temperature ionized flame (as it looks externally) is plasma.
A ground cable, pre-connected to the product, helps close the arc on the surface being cut, which makes it possible for the plasma cutter to operate.
When welding is performed, the supplied gas can be argon or other inert mixtures that protect the weld pool from the external environment.

The temperature of the arc, due to acceleration by air flow, can reach 8000 degrees, which allows you to instantly and precisely heat the required section of the metal, performing cutting, and without overheating the rest of the product.

Plasma cutters differ in power and configuration. Small models are capable of cutting metal about 10 mm thick. Industrial machines work with steels up to 100 mm thick. Often these are large machines on brackets, onto which steel sheets are fed by hoists. A plasma cutter made at home will be able to cut stainless steel and other metals up to 12 mm. They can make shaped cuts in sheet iron (circles, spirals, wave-like shapes), as well as welding alloy steel with filler wire.

The simplest homemade plasma cutter should have four component parts:

power supply;
plasmatron;
compressor;
mass.

Current source

Assembling the product must begin by searching for a suitable power source. Industrial models use powerful transformers that produce high current and are capable of cutting thicknesses over 80 mm. But at home you don’t have to work with such values, and such a transformer will make a lot of noise.

As a current source, you can take a regular inverter, which costs four times less than the simplest plasma cutting machine. It will outperform the transformer by producing a stable voltage at a high frequency. Thanks to this, the stability of the arc and the required cut quality will be ensured. The inverter will also be convenient due to its small size, in case of on-site work with a plasma cutter. Light weight will make it easier to transport the device to the desired location.

The plasma cutter from the inverter, in finished form, must meet a number of key requirements:

powered by 220V network;
operate at a power of 4 kW;
have a current adjustment range from 20 to 40 A;
idle 220V;
nominal operating mode 60% (with a cycle of about 10 minutes).

To achieve these parameters, the product must be equipped with additional equipment, strictly according to the scheme.

Plasma cutter circuit and its operation

How to make a plasma cutter is well shown in some videos on the network. There you can also find important diagrams according to which the device is assembled. To read symbols, basic electrical engineering skills and the ability to understand symbols are required.

The plasma cutter circuit ensures that the device can actually perform the work. This happens as follows:

The plasma torch has a process start button. Pressing the button turns on the relay (P1), which supplies current to the control unit.
The second relay (P2) supplies current to the inverter, and at the same time connects the solenoid valve that purges the burner. The air flow dries the burner chamber and frees it from possible scale and debris.
After 3 seconds, the third relay (P3) is activated, powering the electrodes.
Simultaneously with the third relay, an oscillator is started, ionizing the air between the cathode and anode. An arc called a pilot arc is excited.
When the flame is brought to a product connected to ground, an arc is ignited between the plasma torch and the surface, called the working one.
The reed switch relay cuts off the supply of current that operates for ignition.
The material is being cut or welded. If contact with the surface is lost (the arc hits an already cut place), then the reed switch relay is activated again to ignite the pilot arc.
After turning off the button on the plasma torch, any type of arc goes out, and the fourth relay (P4) starts a short-term supply of purge air to remove burnt elements from the nozzle.

Plasma torch assembly

Plasma cutting and welding is performed with a torch (plasma torch). It can have various modifications and sizes. It is quite difficult to build a model that runs on water at home, so it is worth purchasing such a “gun” in a store.

It is much easier to make a plasmatron with an air system. Homemade versions of a plasma cutter are most often just like this. To assemble it yourself you will need:

handle with holes for cables (can be used from an old soldering iron or toys);
start button;
special electrode;
insulator;
flow swirler;
nozzles for different metal diameters;
splash-proof tip;
distance spring to maintain the gap between the nozzle and the surface;
nozzles for removing chamfers and carbon deposits.

Welding and cutting with the same device can be carried out on different thicknesses of metal thanks to the replaceable elements of the plasma torch head. For this purpose, a variety of nozzles are provided, differing in the diameter of the outlet opening and the height of the cone. It is they who direct the formed plasma jet to the metal. Nozzles are purchased separately in the store. It is worth buying several pieces of each type, because they will melt, which will require replacement over time.

The nozzles are secured with a special clamping nut, the diameter of which allows the nozzle cone to pass through and clamp its wide part. Immediately behind the nozzle there is an electrode and an insulating sleeve that prevents the arc from igniting in an unintended place. Afterwards, there is a mechanism for twisting the air flow, which enhances the effect of the arc. All this is placed in a fluoroplastic case and covered with a metal casing. Some of these items can be made yourself, while others are better purchased at the store.

A store-bought plasma torch may also have an air cooling system, which will allow the device to operate longer without overheating. But if cutting will be carried out for a short time, then this is not necessary.

Electrodes used

Electrodes play an important role in ensuring the arc burning process and cutting with a plasma torch. Beryllium, hafnium, thorium and zirconium are used in their manufacture. Due to the formation of a refractory surface film, the electrode rod is not subject to overheating and premature destruction when working at high temperatures.

When buying electrodes for a homemade plasma cutter, you should find out what material they are made of. Beryllium and thorium produce hazardous fumes and are suitable for use in special environments that provide adequate protection to the welder. Therefore, for home use it is better to purchase hafnium electrodes.

Compressor and cable hoses

Most homemade plasma cutters include a compressor and air supply paths to the burner in their design. This is an important part of the device, allowing the temperature of the electric arc to develop up to 8000 degrees, and ensuring the cutting process. Additionally, the compressor blows through the channels of the equipment and the plasma torch, draining the system of condensate and removing debris. The possibility of compressed air passing through the burner helps to cool the working parts.

You can install a simple compressor in your plasma torch, which is used when painting with a spray gun. Connection to the device is made with a thin hose and an appropriate connector. An electric valve is installed at the inlet to regulate the air supply to the system.

The channel from the plasma cutter to the torch already contains an electrical component (a cable for powering the electrode), so a thicker hose is used, for example from an old washing machine, inside which the electrical wire is placed. The supplied air will simultaneously cool the cable. The mass is made from wire with a cross-section of more than 5 mm square, with a clamp at the end. If the ground contact is poor, the pilot arc will not be able to switch to the working arc. Therefore, it is important to buy a clamp that is strong and reliable.

It is quite possible to assemble a plasma cutter at home using a video and purchased components. A working inverter and circuit will serve as the basis for realizing the goal. And the above tips will help you better understand the process and purpose of each element in the assembly.

The technology of various metal products is used with equal success in everyday life and in large industrial production. Using special equipment, you can easily cut non-ferrous metals, as well as work efficiently with stainless steel, aluminum and other alloys. Cutting non-ferrous metals is carried out using special plasma cutters, which are at the same time easy to use, functional and reliable. Let's tell you more about this equipment and talk about how to make a plasma cutter with your own hands from an inverter.

Industrial plasma cutters are productive equipment that allows for the most accurate cutting of metals with different refractoriness indices. Such industrial plasma cutters are designed primarily for operation under conditions of increased loads and are equipped with CNC, which makes it possible to manufacture parts in a serial manner.

If you need a plasma cutter for domestic use, as well as for the use of such equipment in construction, then such a cutter you can make it yourself from a simple welding inverter. Subsequently, self-made equipment will be distinguished by its versatility in use and will allow you to effectively cut non-ferrous metals and thick sheet steel.

Making such a cutter with your own hands from an inverter will not be particularly difficult. You can easily find diagrams for the implementation of such devices on the Internet and, using the calculations obtained, make such an easy-to-use device. We can recommend that you make plasma cutters based on compact welding inverters, which will significantly simplify the design and guarantee the necessary efficiency of such devices.

Homemade plasma cutting machines are not equipped with CNC, so it will be impossible to use such equipment for work that is fully controlled by automation. You must understand that using such homemade plasma cutters it will be impossible to make two perfectly accurate parts.

A homemade plasma cutter will consist of the following elements:

Plasmatron.
DC source.
Compressor or gas cylinder.
Oscillator.
Power cables.
Connection hoses.

Operating principle

The operating principle of such equipment is extremely simple:

The current source used, and in our case it is an inverter, generates voltage and supplies it through cables to the plasmatron.
The plasma torch contains two electrodes, between which a high-temperature arc is excited.
Through specially twisted channels under high pressure, a stream of air or gas is supplied to the working area with a ignited arc.
A workpiece cable is pre-connected to the product being cut, which closes to the surface being cut and provides the ability to work with metal.

DC power supplies

Plasma cutting technology will invariably require high operating current power, the performance of which should be at the level of semi-professional and professional inverter welding machines. It is not recommended to use transformer welding machines as a power source, since such devices are bulky and inconvenient to use. But an inverter will be an excellent choice, since such devices combine compact dimensions and provide high-quality electric current.

Schemes and drawings of a plasma cutter with your own hands are simple, while the costs of manufacturing such equipment are significantly reduced. A hand-made compact plasma cutter made from a welding inverter will be able to cope with cutting metal whose sheet thickness will reach 30 mm. If we talk about the advantages of such home plasma cutters made using an inverter, then we note the following:

No metal sparks.
Smooth edges.
Line accuracy.
Overheating problems resolved.

Important: making a homemade plasma cutter based on an inverter is not difficult. It is only necessary that the device generate an electric current with a force of at least 30 Amps.

The current source used must meet the following requirements:

Power supply from a network with a voltage of 220 Volts.
Ability to operate with a power of 4 kW.
The idle speed should be 220 Volts.
The current adjustment range is in the range of 20−40 Amperes.

Plasma torch design

The plasma torch is the second most important element of a metal cutter. Let's take a closer look at the design of the plasma torch and the principle of its operation. It consists of a main and auxiliary electrode. The main electrode is made of refractory metals, and the auxiliary electrode, which has the shape of a nozzle, is usually made of copper.

In a plasma torch, the cathode is the main electrode made of a refractory metal, and a copper electrode-nozzle is used as an anode, which makes it possible to provide high-quality electric current and a high-temperature arc for cutting metal.

The completed plasma torch is responsible for creating and maintaining an arc that is located between the workpiece and the cutter. The thickness of the cut, as well as the temperature created by such a cutter, will depend on the shape and design of the nozzle. The nozzle used can be hemispherical or conical, providing an operating temperature of 30,000 degrees Celsius.

During operation of the plasma torch, the main electrode and nozzle may wear out, which leads to a deterioration in the quality of metal cutting. If these elements become so worn, they should be replaced with new ones, which will ensure excellent quality of work with metal.

The plasma torch is supplied with working gas from a cylinder, using special heavy-duty gas hoses that can withstand high pressure. In each specific case, depending on the material being worked with, the gas used, which is necessary for cutting the metal, may differ.

The working gas is supplied through special channels, and the presence of numerous turns in the supply tube makes it possible to provide the necessary air turbulence, which, in turn, guarantees a high-quality cutting plasma arc that will have the correct shape. This improves the quality of metal cutting and welding and minimizes the thickness of the seam.

Oscillator

A special feature of plasma cutters is the fact that To start work, preliminary ignition of the arc is required, only after this gas is supplied to the plasmatron, the arc is created at the required temperature and the metal is cut. An oscillator is used as such a kind of starter, which serves to pre-ignite the arc. The implementation scheme of the oscillator is not difficult.

On the Internet you can find functional and electrical diagrams of oscillators, which will not be difficult to complete. It is only necessary to use high-quality electrical circuits and capacitors, which will be suitable in their parameters to the electric current generated by the inverter. Depending on its type, such a torch can be connected to the plasmatron power circuit in series or in parallel.

Working gas

Even before choosing a specific design for manufacturing a plasma cutter, you should decide on the scope of use of such equipment. If you plan to use the device exclusively for working with ferrous metals, you can exclude gas cylinders from the circuit and use only a compressor with compressed air. If you plan to use such equipment for brass, titanium and copper, then you need to choose a plasma cutter with a nitrogen cylinder. Aluminum cutting is performed using a special gas mixture with hydrogen and nitrogen.

Let's figure out how plasma cutting of metal is done with our own hands. After turning on the inverter, the generated electric current enters the plasma cutter onto the electrode, and the oscillator ignites the electric arc. Its temperature can initially be 6-8 thousand degrees. Immediately after the arc is ignited, air or gas is supplied to the nozzle under high pressure, through which an electric charge passes. The air flow is heated and ionized by an electric arc, after which its volume can increase hundreds of times, and the gas and air itself begins to conduct electric current.

A plasma cutter produces a thin jet of plasma, the temperature of which can reach 30,000 degrees. Subsequently, such a high-temperature plasma jet is supplied to the metal being processed, which makes it possible to cut ultra-strong metal elements.

One of the features of using plasma cutting is the fact that the metal being processed is cut and melted exclusively at the point where it is exposed to the plasma flow. It is extremely important to correctly position the plasma impact spot, which should be located strictly in the center of the working electrode. If this requirement is neglected, the air-plasma flow is disrupted, which deteriorates the quality of metal cutting.

The quality of work with such a plasma cutter will also depend on the air flow rate. It is recommended that all work be carried out with a current of 250 Amperes, while the speed of the air stream will be 800 meters per second. This will allow you to easily work with metals with different refractoriness characteristics, ensuring high-quality cutting without thermal effects on the structure of the alloy.

A plasma cutter is a special device that allows you to quickly, efficiently and effectively cut metal of various structures. You can either purchase plasma cutters that have already been manufactured in a factory, or make them yourself. You can easily find suitable schemes for making plasma cutters from an inverter or transformer welding machine, which will allow you to make such equipment yourself, saving on buying it in a store.

1 Design features
2 Design of a plasma cutter, tips for making the device
3 How does a plasma cutter work?
4 Ventilation during plasma cutting
5 Homemade plasma cutter schemes

Making a plasma cutter with your own hands from an inverter is not as difficult as it seems at first. Before you start making the device yourself, you need to prepare everything you need:

plasma cutter (plasma torch);
an inverter device or a transformer that acts as a source of electric current;
a compressor, with the help of which an air jet will be formed, forming and cooling the plasma flow;
cables, hoses designed to connect all parts of the device.

When choosing a power source, you need to take into account the current generated by the device. An inverter inverter is often used, which makes the cutting process stable and saves electrical energy. An inverter, unlike a transformer, weighs little and is small in size, so it is convenient to use. The main disadvantage of an inverter-based plasma cutter is that it is difficult for them to cut very thick workpieces.

To make a plasma cutter with your own hands, you can use the diagrams below. Below you will also find a video that explains the process of assembling the equipment. It is necessary to strictly follow the diagram, select the components so that the parts of the device fit together.

Design features

The first thing you need to find to create a plasma cutter is a power source. From it, an electric current with the required parameters will flow into the plasma cutter for metal processing. Usually a plasma cutter is made from a welding inverter. The use of a transformer can result in high electrical energy consumption. It must be remembered that any transformer welding device is large and weighs a lot.

An important component of the device is the plasma cutter. The quality of the cut and the efficiency of its implementation depend on it.

A compressor is used to create a stream of air that turns into a plasma jet. Electric current from the inverter/transformer and air flow from the compressor are supplied to the cutter through a cable and hose complex.

The plasma torch contains the following parts:

nozzle hole;
a channel for passing air flow;
electrode;
cooling insulator.

How to make a plasma cutter from an inverter? To make a plasma cutting device with your own hands, you need to choose the optimal electrode. Beryllium, thorium, zirconium, and hafnium electrodes are usually used. When heated, refractory oxide films are formed on the surface of these materials, preventing destructive processes.

Certain materials, when heated, release toxic substances. This must be taken into account when selecting an electrode. Beryllium releases radioactive oxides. Thorium vapors combine with oxygen to produce highly toxic elements. It is safest to use a hafnium electrode.

Do-it-yourself plasma cutter for metal creates a flow through a nozzle hole. This part of the device determines the efficiency of the work flow.

The optimal nozzle diameter is 15 millimeters. The nozzle is responsible for how accurately and efficiently the metal will be cut. Remember that a long nozzle is prone to wear out quickly.

A do-it-yourself plasma cutter for metal from an inverter must have a compressor. It creates and delivers an oxygen stream to the hole. The use of pressurized air as a working and cooling medium, together with an inverter device that supplies an electric current of 200 A, makes it possible to effectively cut steel parts with a thickness of up to 50 millimeters.

To prepare the plasma cutter for the work process, you need to connect the plasma torch, inverter device and compressor. Cables and hoses are used for this.

The cable through which electric current will flow serves to connect the inverter device and the electrode element.

The compressed air hose serves to connect the compressor output and the plasma torch.

How does a plasma cutter work?

How to make a plasma cutter for metal with your own hands? To understand this, you need to understand how this device functions. When the inverter device is turned on, electricity flows to the electrode. Because of this, an arc is ignited. The temperature of the electric arc that lights up between the working electrode and the metal end of the nozzle hole is approximately 6000-8000 degrees. After the arc is ignited, pressurized air enters the nozzle chamber. It passes through an electrical discharge. An electric arc provides heating and ionization of the air flow passing through it. Due to this, the volume of air is increased by 100 or more times. The air becomes able to pass electric current.

Using a nozzle, a plasma jet is formed from an air flow. Its temperature increases rapidly and can reach 25,000-35,000 degrees. The speed of the plasma jet, through which metal workpieces are cut, at the exit from the nozzle hole is approximately 2-3 meters per second. When the plasma jet touches the surface of a steel workpiece, electric current from the electrode element begins to flow through it, and the burning arc goes out. A new arc that lights up between the electrode element and the workpiece being cut is called cutting.

A distinctive feature of plasma cutting is that the material being cut melts only in the area in which the plasma jet acts on it. In view of this, it is necessary to ensure that the plasma exposure area is located in the central part of the electrode. If you ignore this requirement, you may encounter a disruption in the plasma-air flow. Consequently, the cutting efficiency will decrease. To ensure compliance, air is supplied tangentially to the nozzle.

Do not allow the formation of 2 plasma streams instead of one. If you do not follow the modes and rules of the technological process, you can damage the inverter apparatus.

A very significant characteristic of plasma cutting is the speed of the air stream. It shouldn't be very high. The best ratio of cutting quality and speed of execution is ensured at an air flow speed of 800 meters per second. The current coming from the inverter should not exceed 250 amperes. When cutting metal in this mode, it is necessary to take into account that the air flow used to form the plasma flow will be quite large.

It is not difficult to make a plasma cutting device with your own hands. You need to familiarize yourself with the theory, watch videos and choose the correct components of the device. The advantage of an inverter plasma cutter is that it can be used not only for cutting, but also for welding.

If you don't have an inverter, you can make a plasma cutter from a welding machine, i.e. transformer. However, in this case the device will have rather large dimensions. Also, the disadvantage of a plasma cutter for metal, which is made from a transformer, is that it is not very mobile. Due to this, it is difficult to move it from one place to another. This is not too critical if you rarely work with the device. However, if you often need to cut metal workpieces, be sure to start creating a plasma cutter from an inverter with your own hands.

Ventilation for plasma cutting

Ventilation is necessary for plasma cutting. When metal is cut with a device, smoke and dust particles are generated. They must be removed from the room in which the work is being carried out. For this purpose, ventilation systems are used, which make it possible to solve this problem.

If plasma cutting is performed manually, inclined lifts are used. They provide suction of dust particles. It is worth remembering that the lower part of such a device should not be higher than thirty-five centimeters above the cutting area.

If large metal sheets are cut, special suction devices are used. Tables with a box are also often used for ventilation. The box serves as a kind of receiver for various particles formed during the working process. The main requirement for such a table is to cover its surface by eighty percent with the sheets being processed. This makes it possible to provide the desired air flow speed and absorb dust particles and smoky elements.

Ventilation for plasma cutting is considered effective if the air flow speed is 1.3 m/s (carbon steel, titanium alloys) or 1.8 m/s (aluminum alloys, high-alloy steel).

If you decide to make your own plasma cutter, carefully study the above recommendations. This way you can make a device that will function correctly and have a long service life. If you have an inverter machine, be sure to use it as a source of electricity, and not a welding transformer. The small overall dimensions of the device are a significant advantage.

Homemade plasma cutter diagrams