Little Shop of Physics has built a miniature plasma cutter using a pencil lead together with 4 x 9 volt batteries and a couple of clips allowing you to cut through aluminium foil.
Watch the video below to learn more about how to create your very own plasma cutter and how it can be used to cut thin metal foil using a mechanical lead pencil.
Materials and Tools Required
To create your own miniature plasma cutter, you will need the following parts:
– 4 x 9 V battery
– 2 x Clip leads
– 1 x 5 mm pencil lead
– Aluminium foil
– Box or tub
– Rubber band
These materials are relatively easy to find and inexpensive, making this an accessible project for those interested in experimenting with plasma cutting on a small scale.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pencil Lead: Start by carefully removing the lead from a mechanical pencil. The lead will act as the electrode in your plasma cutter.
2. Set Up the Batteries: Connect the 4 x 9 V batteries in series to increase the voltage. This setup will provide the necessary power to create a plasma arc.
3. Attach the Clip Leads: Use the clip leads to connect the batteries to the pencil lead. One clip should be attached to the end of the pencil lead, while the other clip should be connected to the aluminium foil.
4. Secure the Setup: Place the aluminium foil in a box or tub to contain any debris or sparks. Use a rubber band to secure the pencil lead in place, ensuring it is stable and positioned correctly.
5. Initiate the Plasma Arc: Carefully bring the pencil lead close to the aluminium foil. The high voltage from the batteries will create a plasma arc, allowing you to cut through the foil.
This demonstration is only for the experienced! Little Shop of Physics took several precautions to do this demonstration safely. Don’t try this yourself unless you understand and appreciate the difficulties and the dangers.
Understanding Plasma Cutting
Plasma cutting is a process that uses a high-velocity jet of ionized gas (plasma) to cut through electrically conductive materials. The plasma is created by an electrical arc passing through a gas, which can be air, nitrogen, or another suitable gas. This process is commonly used in industrial applications to cut metals such as steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
In this miniature version, the principle remains the same, but the scale is much smaller. The pencil lead acts as the electrode, and the high voltage from the batteries ionizes the air around the lead, creating a plasma arc. This arc is hot enough to melt and cut through thin aluminium foil.
Safety Precautions
Working with high voltage and plasma can be dangerous. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
– Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from sparks and debris.
– Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Plasma cutting can produce fumes and gases that may be harmful if inhaled. Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated space.
– Keep Flammable Materials Away: Plasma arcs can ignite flammable materials. Keep your workspace clear of any such items.
– Understand the Risks: Make sure you fully understand the risks involved in working with high voltage and plasma before attempting this project.
Source: Hack A Day
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