Chapter 33 PAM

Definition Of PAM
When the temperature of a gas is raised to about 2000C, the gas molecules become dissociated into separate atoms.
At higher temperatures, 30,000C, these atoms become ionized. The gas in this stage is termed plasma..

An important feature of plasma beam machining (PBM), is that it is the only fabricating method that works faster in stainless steel than it does in mild steel.

Nontraditional Processes Used When:

1. Material is either very hard, brittle or both; or material is very ductile: difficult material 2. Part geometry is complex or geometric requirements impossible with conventional methods: difficult geometry 3. Need to avoid surface damage or contamination that often accompanies conventional machining: surface smooth or clean.

Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC)

Uses plasma stream at very high temperatures to cut metal 10,000C to 14,000C. Plasma arc generated between electrode in torch and anode workpiece. The plasma flows through water-cooled nozzle that constricts and directs plasma stream to desired location

Other Applications of PAC

Most applications of PAC involve cutting of flat metal sheets and plates Hole piercing and cutting along a defined path

Can be operated by hand-held torch or automated by CNC

Can cut any: electrically conductive metal Hole sizes generally larger than 2 mm