There are many different factors to consider when setting up your shop with a CNC plasma cutting system. The different components of the system all should be carefully selected to fully integrate and make an effective system to use, maintain and operate.
One of the most often missed components to consider is the CNC plasma cutting table. Without a quality table that is designed to provide the support and the freedom for the gantry to be able to create the shapes required on the size of plate, your customers work with.
Construction
Taking the time to carefully look at the construction of the CNC plasma cutting table is going to be an essential first step in any purchase. Tables should be designed to be durable and sturdy, made of materials that you know are going to last, particularly on the frame. Ideally, look for steel or aluminum for a table that is going to last.
Maintenance Requirements
Different manufacturers and even different models of CNC plasma cutting table options will utilize different designs. Some of these designs may be more demanding with regards to maintenance and more costly when it comes to repairs.
Often, systems that have been designed to reduce moving parts have an advantage over more elaborate types of tables. A simple design with few moving parts means less risk of the dust and grit getting into the oil and causing wear and tear with use.
Water Table or Downdraft
To eliminate the dust and smoke that comes with the plasma cutting process, it will be important to choose a ventilation method for the table. The downdraft method uses a shielding method around the table that traps the dust and smoke. A fan then pulls it down and out of the building.
Water tables use water to cool sparks and trap dust and smoke. This is another method to consider, but it does require some consideration for placement in a shop.
