When to quit with a torch, and pick up a plasma cutter

Oftentimes, welders are tempted into buying a plasma cutter to achieve better cutting results. Although that might be a good thing, it's not necessarily a have-to item. Here are some recommendtions before you take the plunge.

• Before you quit torching, here are some things to check:
• Be certain your regulators are high quality and in working condition.
• Check for leaks in your gas plumbing. Use a drop of soap in water and an old paintbrush to help identify leaks.
• Check your tip size. Is it correct?
• Be sure gas tip pressures are set right for the tip you're using.
• Preheat your tip right. Manufacturers sell tips in light, medium or heavy pre-heat settings. For clean steel use heavy tips. This can result in slag blow-through it you don't get it right.
• Check your techniques and alter as needed. Are you holding the torch at the right position? Using it at the right distance? Be sure.
  

Get all that? Then buy you a plasma cutter if you think you can't live without it.