Hi All I am new to this and wish to ask how to get the cleanest cut with ali
I am not happy with some of my smaller stuff (holes) I cant get a die grinder in to finish the cut up.
using a Samson table and Powermax 85 and cutting 3-4mm 5083
Any help would be appreciated
Aluminium cutting basics
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- rdj357
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Re: Aluminium cutting basics
If you're following the cut charts and maybe slowing down a little on the smaller holes, I don't have anything else to suggest. I use a Dremel and burr to clean up smaller holes & details. 

Robert Johnson
PlasmaCAM GURU & Instructor
I am not affiliated with PlasmaCAM, Inc. in any way. I offer training on their equipment and software. All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them are for nominative purposes only and does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.
PlasmaCAM GURU & Instructor
I am not affiliated with PlasmaCAM, Inc. in any way. I offer training on their equipment and software. All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them are for nominative purposes only and does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.
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Re: Aluminium cutting basics
I cut 3mm on my PM45 and it's a devil to get good quality.
I run small holes and shapes at 60% speed, perpendicular lead-in and various end options - this is the tough bit. I am going to try a 2mm overburn but kill the torch 1mm before the end of normal cut, hopefully this will allow the arc to extinguish whiles its doing the overburn.
Watch the pierce height/delay is good too, I've had plenty trouble caused by dross blowing back up into the torch.
I run small holes and shapes at 60% speed, perpendicular lead-in and various end options - this is the tough bit. I am going to try a 2mm overburn but kill the torch 1mm before the end of normal cut, hopefully this will allow the arc to extinguish whiles its doing the overburn.
Watch the pierce height/delay is good too, I've had plenty trouble caused by dross blowing back up into the torch.