Usage of IGBT in CNC Machines

The simple definition of plasma cutting is cutting steel and other metals of different thicknesses (or sometimes other materials) using a plasma torch. When doing this, an inactive gas (in some cases, compressed air) is turned into plasma by blowing it at extreme speed out of a nozzle; at the same time an electrical arc is forged through that gas from the nozzle to the metal being cut. The plasma is sufficiently heated to melt the metal in the process of cutting.

The Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) versus the Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET) has been a controversial subject ever since the IGBT technology came into being in the 1980's. CNC plasma cutting machines were initially using MOSFETs as transistor. But the usage of IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) is now grown notably in this field. IGBTs are deployed in plasma cutting technology to provide more commercial plasma cutting equipment. With assimilated MOSFETs, if one of the transistors actuates out of time, it can cause collapse of one quarter of the inverter. A later discovery, IGBTs, is not as subject to this failure mode. IGBT technology for welding applications has certainly proved to more effectively handle the rigorous demands the high duty cycle welders as it offers higher voltage capacities and heat tolerances than the earlier MOSFET.

CNC machines with IGBTs are swift. Preheating is not needed, so the torch can start cutting without delay. With speeds up to 500 IPM, it can contend with laser cutters based on the type of part. These cutters are multipurpose, competent for piercing, complicated cutting and beveling in one process. These can effectively cut any electrically conductive metal up to 6" thick. Accurate cutting is one of the characteristics of CNC plasma cutters. These machines are paired with highly advanced software and high precision components; the want for costly secondary operations is dispelled. The torch head is computer controlled and can do clean, sharp cuts. Solid integration between the cutting torch and software results in excellent manufacture, high cut quality, fewer dross and high superiority edges. An IGBT based CNC engine may appear complicated, the CNC (computer numerically controlled) software takes most of the guess work out of cutting. With an ultra modern package, even a first time worker is doughty of creating amazing outcome. The machines are safe too, almost all systems offer a downdraft or exhaust system to pull out the smoke away from the operator.

The IGBT plasma cutters are better suited for professional environments. These take up a different method to start the pilot arc. Many IGBT plasma metal cutters often deploy high frequency starting technology, high voltage circuit just for the starting process while others use Pilot Arc starting technology, where the torch enables a constant arc without touching the workpiece.

CNC plasma cutting sector has been improved notably in recent years. In the past, CNC machine’s cutting tables were horizontal, but nowadays vertical CNC plasma cutting machines are available providing enhanced flexibility, swift operation and utmost safety.