How to Select Plasma Gas for Plasma Cutting?

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Compressed air, nitrogen, argon, hydrogen and oxygen, or blends of two or three of these components are the most popular plasma gases for plasma cutting.

Choosing the right gas or combination in a blended gas depends upon the metal being cut, the equipment used and the desired performance in the cutting process.

For materials up to one half inch, compressed air works relatively well at a very low cost. When cutting thicker materials, metal chemistry and thickness require a specific choice of plasma gas to ensure optimum performance.

Color changes are a result of the chemical reaction between the metal and the plasma gas that is used.

Plasma Gas Selection Guide

Plasma GasShield GasMild SteelStainless SteelAluminum
AirAirGood cut quality EconomicalGood cut quality and speed EconomicalGood cut quality and speed Economical
OxygenAirExcellent cut quality and speed Very little drossNot recommendedNot recommended
NitrogenCarbon DioxideFair cut quality Some dross Excellent parts lifeGood cut quality Excellent parts lifeExcellent cut quality Excellent parts life
NitrogenAirFair cut quality Some dross Excellent parts lifeGood cut quality Excellent parts lifeGood cut quality Excellent parts life
NitrogenWaterFair cut quality Some dross Excellent parts lifeExcellent cut quality Excellent parts lifeExcellent cut quality Excellent parts life
Argon HydrogenNitrogenNot recommendedExcellent on thicknesses above 1/2″Excellent on thicknesses above 1/2″
Plasma Gas Selection Guide
New Arrivals Multi-Process Welding Machines
New Arrivals Multi-Process Welding Machines