{"id":129,"date":"2021-06-08T20:30:07","date_gmt":"2021-06-08T20:30:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/welderacademy.com\/?p=129"},"modified":"2021-10-15T15:34:09","modified_gmt":"2021-10-15T15:34:09","slug":"how-to-use-a-tig-welder-as-a-plasma-cutter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/welderacademy.com\/how-to-use-a-tig-welder-as-a-plasma-cutter\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Use A TIG Welder As A Plasma Cutter in 5 Steps"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Welding together complex joints between various metals has no competition when it comes to TIG welding. On the other hand, nothing cuts metals any smoother, faster, and cleaner than a plasma cutter. Now imagine the ground-breaking outcome that may result from morphing both TIG welding and plasma cutting together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is already an existing machine known as MPM or Multi-Process Machine. This machine has 3 of the core features by default, allowing it to be used as a plasma cutter, stick welder, and even TIG welder. You can carry out multiple tasks just by using a specific one-in-all tool.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, there\u2019s still a lot more than meets the eye about this topic. Hence I\u2019ll be discussing the sciences involved, the core differences and if it\u2019s possible to directly convert the TIG welder to the plasma cutter. Lastly, I\u2019ll discuss a controversial method of converting a TIG welder into a plasma cutter. So stay tuned and stick with me till the end of this article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Difference Between A TIG welder and a Plasma Cutter<\/strong>
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Let\u2019s talk in basic terms of functionality. In Layman’s terms, both of these machines have their respective processes and are used for different purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TIG welders allow for TIG welding to take place which is a manual process that requires both hands to fuse multiple pieces of metal into one single piece. This process requires parent subject metals to be melted by using an electrode made of Tungsten, a metal that can withstand high pressure and temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The electrode is responsible for producing an electric arc which makes the melting take place. The welding also requires the operator\u2019s participation which makes this process one of the hardest processes to learn by hand. The operator should add filler metals to the joining block simultaneously all the while it is being melted to successfully weld the pieces together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compressed, shielding gases called Argon flow over the welding area as means of protecting impurities from forming thanks to its non-reactivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let\u2019s talk about plasma cutting. TIG welding pretty much involves the process of melting and creating a junction using both skills and heat. Plasma cutting is a lot more different than it may follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plasma cutting utilizes the 4th state of matter, more commonly known as \u2018plasma\u2019. This state is achieved by heating gases to the point that they turn into ions and allow for electric conduction to take place. The plasma state is achieved by a central power source which transfers energy to an electrically conducting metal by forcing pressurized gas like nitrogen into a narrow opening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The pressurized gas then interacts with an electrical arc to produce what is known as a plasma stream. The tip of the plasma cutter can then be pointed towards a metal being cut and allows the plasma jet to simply cut through it with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With these basic knowledge in mind, let\u2019s move on to our next concern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can You Convert Your TIG Welder to A Plasma Cutter<\/strong>?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The answer is quite complex, given that it will require you to alter the total mechanism of your TIG welder as well as create various safety concerns. On the other hand, even when you may be able to pull the conversion process off, you\u2019ll see that your TIG welder can\u2019t do plasma cutting just as well. It will only work for very thin materials <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk about technical differences and aspects about why this conversion process just might not seem very possible. TIG arcs usually use about a voltage of 15-25V and a current of 100 to 300 amps when welding begins.

Unlike Plasma cutters which run at around a voltage of 90-120V and 15 to 30 amps during the cutting process. Their overall power is just about similar but the voltage required in case of plasma cutting is very much higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, welding is more prone to causing electrocution due to its different functionality. This is why welders put a limit to their output voltage to around 80V as the electric arc is exposed to the operator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In plasma cutters, however, the electrode is well within the constrictions of the torch and can\u2019t be exposed just as easily with safety locks present to make it safer. Hence, for a TIG welder to be for plasma cutting, the voltage limit is to be crossed and extra carefulness is to be taken in terms of not being electrocuted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now the final verdict lies, is it wise to convert a TIG welder into something that could execute plasma cutting?<\/strong> Well, as long as you do it right and at your own risk. Yes, it is possible, however, I wouldn\u2019t recommend doing so given the fact that their technicalities are not very prone for interchange to be made possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The best solution to getting your TIG welder to work as a plasma cutter? In my humble opinion, I would say the best option is to buy a multi-process machine that can get both TIG welding and plasma cutting done at a reasonable price. It may not do just as good of a job but it\u2019ll do just enough while also being safe and easy to operate.

These machines are built by professionals and hence can be trusted. I wouldn\u2019t suggest a DIY conversion take place when you can get the best of both worlds with MPM instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Use A TIG Welder as A Plasma Cutter? – Step by Step Guide <\/strong>
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I understand that not everyone may be packing the dough to buy a new machine altogether. Though I will suggest you try this at your own risk, there is still a way for you to use your TIG welder as a plasma cutter by following these steps. This light conversion process is not very effective as actual plasma cutters but they can still get the job done for light and thin objects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here, is a step-by-step process of how you can use a TIG welder as a plasma cutter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step1: <\/strong>An external 1\/8\u201d Electrode will be needed to replace the default bulging electrode. The electrode can be preferably sharpened but not too much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: <\/strong>A lot of gas will be needed and pressurized enough to create a plasma-like effect to show up through these gases. Since TIG welders use argon by default, you have to set the flowmeter to the max to have as much argon popping out of your torch as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 3: <\/strong>The settings of your TIG machine should stay the same as you would keep it while welding. However, a little variation on the amperage side is needed. The more amperage you will have the faster you will be able to cut, however, you can go as low as you can and test it out to see how it works. The preferable range is around 200-250 Amps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 4: <\/strong>You will be required to use a number 3 or 4 TIG cup and use it to recess the tungsten of your welder to about 1\/8\u201d and then flush it down within the tip of your tig cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 5: <\/strong>Operate the welder like you would operate any plasma cutter by dragging the tip of the cup while clamping on a straight edge and guiding it consistently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That\u2019s pretty much how you turn a TIG welder into a discount plasma cutter ready to cut through thin metals with ease. It may not be as promising as your multi-purpose machine but it\u2019ll still get the job done if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Disclaimer<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Do this at your own risk, as you will be prone to be electrocuted and also may suffer burning injuries if you\u2019re not careful enough. Don\u2019t do this without the supervision of experts and the proper tools. Operation of your modified TIG welder is to be done steadily and with prior experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, <\/strong>wear proper insulating heavy-duty non-flammable clothing at all times to safely cut through materials using a TIG welder during plasma cutting. Plasma cutting which I\u2019m sure you know can be very hazardous and requires you to wear the proper protective clothing and gears.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, you might want to read this article: 5 Ways A TIG Welder Can Kill or Hurt You<\/a>.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n


TIG Welding and Plasma Cutting with a Multi-Process Machine<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n


I guess it\u2019s no surprise that TIG welders indeed can be made to act as a plasma cutter through some technical tweaking and by following proper safety measures. However, this will require you to undo the changes again and then redo them again over and over in the long run if you wish to use a machine that wasn\u2019t specifically made to do plasma cutting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I already discussed above why Multi-Process machines are the best option for getting this job done as technically it is a TIG welder that can be used for plasma cutting. These machines are worth buying if you see yourself doing both of these activities a lot in the future. Hence, I believe it\u2019s definitely worth investing in these bad boys. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s talk about some tips and tricks while working in terms of both TIG welding and Plasma cutting in a multi-process machine.

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Tips for TIG Welding with A Multi-Process Machine<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Multi-process machines work the same way as TIG-only exclusives machines out there following identical requirements. The AC machines operate at about a current output of 20-200 amp whereas the DC machines operate around 5-200 amp output. Their pulse frequency also lies around .5 to 250 pulses\/s which covers enough range to handle various TIG welding jobs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note: DC multi-process machines are not sufficient enough to weld aluminum which is why AC multi-process machines are more widely preferred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In terms of operating a Multi-process machine for TIG welding, any previously experienced welders will know what to expect. However, I still can\u2019t help but feel liable enough to provide some extra tips just for those who are just starting with TIG welding. Here they are as follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n