What types of metals can plasma cutting effectively process?

What Types of Metals Can Plasma Cutting Effectively Process?

Carbon Steel

Plasma cutting is widely used for carbon steel, especially in structural and industrial applications. It can handle thicknesses from 1 mm up to 50 mm, delivering high-speed cuts with clean edges. Its versatility makes it ideal for sheet metal fabrication, construction parts, and heavy machinery components.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is effectively processed using plasma cutting for thicknesses up to 38 mm with minimal dross. This is especially useful in medical, food processing, and energy systems where corrosion resistance and structural strength are required.

Aluminum

Plasma cutting performs well on aluminum alloys up to 38 mm thick. Though it may produce some surface oxidation, proper gas selection (e.g., nitrogen or argon-hydrogen) ensures high-quality results. It's used extensively in automotive, aerospace, and e-mobility part fabrication.

Copper and Brass

Copper and brass, though reflective and conductive, can also be plasma cut efficiently with high-frequency arc initiation and careful process control. Plasma excels in cutting conductive non-ferrous metals where laser cutting may struggle due to reflectivity. Applications include telecommunication hardware, electrical connectors, and busbars.

High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) Steels

Plasma cutting handles HSLA steels like A572 or A514 effectively. These are common in structural engineering and pressure vessels where strength-to-weight ratio is critical. Plasma's quick heat input and cutting speed help maintain edge integrity even in thicker grades.

Tool Steels and Coated Metals

Plasma cutting is also capable of processing tool steels and coated plates (e.g., galvanized or painted steels). While edge quality may require light finishing, it remains effective for rapid cutting and prototyping of custom tools and heavy-duty parts.

Manufacturing Services for Plasma Cut Metal Parts

Neway provides precision plasma cutting services for carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and more. With ±0.1 mm tolerance, fast turnaround, and CNC machining integration, we deliver high-quality metal parts for industrial, automotive, and energy clients worldwide.