From Classic to Cutting Edge: Concrete Ideas and Inspiration

How to Use a Plasma Cutter Safely

Steel fabrication is a project a lot of people choose to do alone without the help of a professional steel fabricator. For simple household objects like gutters and roof reinforcement, it can be a challenging but fun project to do. A very important part of steel fabrication is cutting, and it's very difficult to finish any project without cutting the metal at least once. One of the most common ways to cut steel for an optimal result is by plasma cutting. In order to do your own plasma cutting, however, you should know some safety information.

Skin protection

The first thing you need to think about after getting ready to cut the steel you've bought from your steel supplier is to protect your skin. None of your skin should be exposed as you're using a plasma cutter. Use heavy duty gloves, like welding gloves, to protect your hands. Your hands are the most vulnerable parts of your body to protect, as they are the oncs that will be closest to the plasma cutter. You should also make sure to wear flame resistant clothing all over your body. It's also important that you button all the buttons on sleeves and collars so that no loose fabric is able to catch sparks from the plasma cutting.

Welding mask

You'll also need to shield your face when doing your own plasma cutting. A welding mask is the best option, as it protects your eyes from the light as well as your face and respiratory system. You can get a proper welding mask from most steel fabricate central coast stores. If you can't get a hold of a welding mask, you need to protect your eyes with toned safety goggles. You also need a respiratory mask and something to cover your hair and forehead. These should only be temporary solutions, however, and you should make sure you have a proper welding mask at hand as you start cutting.

Hydrogen

You should also consider using ordinary compressed air rather than hydrogen as cutting gas. Hydrogen is more commonly used among professional steel fabricators, but it can be highly dangerous to use if you don't know how to handle it. You can't afford for the hydrogen to escape from its container by you dropping it. Hydrogen released in a small space can replace the oxygen in the air and thereby cause you to suffocate. Even if it doesn't replace the oxygen completely, it can still put you in a sedated state, which can also be highly dangerous.