What type of air is suitable for use in PAC systems?

The suitable type of air for use in Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC) systems is dry, oil-free air. This is important because the cutting process requires optimal conditions for the arc to function effectively. Moist air can lead to irregular cutting and unstable plasma arcs because the moisture can cause inconsistent conductivity. Oil in the air can contaminate the nozzle and the plasma arc, resulting in poor cutting quality, increased wear on the equipment, and potential damage.

Dry, oil-free air ensures that there are no impurities that could interfere with the precision of the cut. It maintains the quality of the plasma arc by providing a stable atmosphere for ionization, resulting in smoother and more consistent cuts in the material being processed.

While refrigerated air might seem like a viable option, it can lead to condensation, which introduces moisture back into the system, making it unsuitable for PAC applications. Compressed nitrogen is not typically used in standard plasma cutting applications where air is preferred, as PAC systems are designed around the specific properties of dry, oil-free air for effective cutting.