Fast, Affordable Cutting for Thick Metals
At SoCal Waterjet & Machining, our CNC plasma cutting offers a budget-friendly solution for fast, rough-cut metal fabrication. While plasma cuts aren’t as clean as laser or WaterJet, they’re perfect for projects where price and turnaround time matter most—and you’re okay with post-processing.
Why Choose Plasma Cutting?
- Incredible Speed – Plasma cuts thick metals up to 50 mm (2″) faster than oxy-fuel, often outperforming laser cutters in this range—ideal for tight deadlines and large parts
- Lowest Cost Method – Lowest per-cut operating cost in our CNC suite—electricity and compressed air vs. expensive lasers or abrasive waterjets .
- Versatile on Conductive Metals – Cuts virtually any electrically conductive metal—carbon steel, stainless, aluminum, copper, brass even cast iron
- Minimal Heat-Affected Zone – Faster cuts mean less heat spreads beyond the cutline—minimizing warping, especially useful for thicker parts
- CNC Precision & Repeatability – Modern CNC plasma tables deliver consistent cuts with sharp contour accuracy .
What’s the Catch?
- Rougher Edge Quality – Expect wider kerfs, jagged edges, and possible dross—post-cut deburring (delagging) is typically needed before finishing
- Less Precision – Typical tolerances are ±0.005–0.02″, looser than laser or WaterJet—more than sufficient for structural parts, not for fine-detail work .
- Noise, Sparks & Fumes – High decibels, bright arcs, and metal fumes require proper safety equipment and ventilation.
- Consumable Wear – Nozzles and electrodes wear over time, so occasional part replacements and maintenance are required
Materials & Thicknesses
- Material
- Typical Max Thickness
- Carbon/Stainless Steel
- ~50 mm (2″)
- Aluminum, Brass, Copper
- Similar range
- Cast Iron
- Yes adequate for structural.
When Plasma Makes Sense
- Heavy structural components: beams, frames, chassis parts
- Industrial fabrications, HVAC ductwork, construction bodies
- Prototype fabrication where fit-up is more important than finish
- Thick, conductive-metal parts under time and cost pressure
Cross-Service Context
Like our other services Laser and WaterJet plasma cutting is part of our CNC suite. If your project needs a clean finish or heat sensitive material, we’ll prioritize Laser or WaterJet. Plasma is our go-to when cost outputs and speed outweigh precision.
CNC Plasma Cutting — Our Process
- Quick Quote – Upload CAD files (DXF, DWG, STEP, STP, PDF, AI).
- Design & Nesting – Efficient layout to maximize materials.
- CNC Plasma Cutting – High-speed cutting on heavy steel sheets or plates.
- Delagging Option – We offer rough deburring to prep parts for weld or assembly.
- Delivery or Pickup – Fast turnaround; large parts cut same day.
Why Choose SoCal Waterjet & Machining?
- Most Affordable Metal-Cutting Option — low-cost plasma cuts for value-driven clients.
- Fast Turnarounds — big, thick parts delivered quickly.
- Flexible Job Sizes — from quick one-offs to multi-plate jobs.
- Full CNC Suite — Plasma, Laser, WaterJet—all under one roof.
- Local, Reliable Service — SoCal-based, responsive, built on trust and quality.