Rusty sheet metal??

[gerrymoore]

Probably been asked lots of times......do plasma cutters work well with rusty metal??

I have a sheet of 1.5mm that is very rusty and I want to cut it up. I have a quality plasma cutter with non touch start that I have hardly used...certainly don't want to damage it!!

I realise I will need to make sure of a good earth if nothing else........

Any advice - other than buy new steel!!

 

[JayRS4]

As long as you`ve got a good earth on it, you should be fine. Plasmas are handy like that, doesnt matter if it`s painted or coated either, except for fumes maybe.

 

[peterd51]

Hi,

if you're using it for welding it may be easier to run a sander over it while it's still 'whole'. That's what I do.

But, as above, you can cut rusty metal OK.

Regards
Peter

 

[gerrymoore]

Thanks for the info guys..I'l have a go next week - if it's not too hot :-))

 

[weldequip]

if it's not too hot

Don't rub it in... it's been violently ******* it down here for a fortnight!
weldequip

 

[gerrymoore]

Hmmmm rain...I remember that from somewhere ;-))

 

[Dusty]

Easy peaszy, rusty metal! paint and all. and Quite quiet compaired to using a grinder....

 

[grandads_shed]

what din should the mask be for useing a plasma cutter?

would the auto mask i use with a 9din to 13din be fine for cutting?

 

[Dusty]

I use a green tinted full face shield from my local boc trade shop, wasn't expensive and light to wear, gives a better field of vision. i think it's about as dark as gas goggles.
The welding auto mask was too clumsy and dark when cutting. HTH Dusty

 

[shenion]

I put masking tape over the sensors on my auto mask when using the plasma cutter. Still triggers every once in a while but works well.

Note, tape over the sensors, usually 2 small holes, not the solar cell.