Plasma cutting generates an electric arc, similar to welding, which produces intense light capable of damaging both eyesight and skin. Therefore, it is crucial to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a welding helmet with the correct shade, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing.

Additionally, plasma cutting produces significant amounts of fumes and dust. It is essential to use proper ventilation or fume extraction systems. A highly effective method is cutting partially or fully submerged in water, which significantly reduces airborne particulates and improves working conditions.

When cutting high-strength or wear-resistant steels, make sure the plate is at room temperature before cutting. If the material has been stored outdoors or in cold environments, it must be preheated to room temperature.

For steels that require specific preheating temperatures (as per SSAB’s recommendations), the plate must be preheated accordingly before cutting begins.

One of the key factors in plasma cutting is proper grounding. The ground (return) clamp must be securely connected directly to the plate being cut. Poor grounding can result in unstable arc behavior and poor cut quality.

Unlike oxy-fuel cutting, plasma cutting is more sensitive to the surface condition of the material. It is important to remove rust, scale, oil, and any foreign particles from the surface of the plate, as these can negatively affect arc stability and cut quality.

Use the correct consumables—nozzles, electrodes, and shield caps—based on the material thickness and steel type. These are specified by the plasma system manufacturer.

For SSAB steels, the same consumables and settings as for mild steel can generally be used. However, fine-tuning of parameters such as cutting speed, amperage, and gas flow may be required to achieve optimal results.

Proper preparation ensures safer operation, better cut quality, and longer consumable life—especially when working with high-performance steels.