Plasma Cutting Speed Calculator

Plasma Cutting Speed Calculator

Getting the travel speed right on a plasma cutter balances cut quality against productivity - this calculator gives a rough starting estimate based on amperage and material thickness.

Cutting Speed (IPM) ≈ (Amperage / Material Thickness) x 2.5

Example

45A amperage cutting 6mm material:

Cutting Speed = (45/6) x 2.5 = ~18.8 IPM (478 mm/min)

Why Thickness and Amperage Both Matter

Thicker material requires slower travel speed to give the plasma arc enough time to fully penetrate through the entire thickness, while higher amperage settings deliver more cutting energy, allowing faster travel through the same thickness while maintaining full penetration.

Always Check Manufacturer Speed Charts

This is a rough starting estimate only - actual optimal cutting speed varies considerably by specific plasma cutter model, consumable (nozzle and electrode) condition, gas type, and material composition. Most plasma cutter manufacturers publish detailed speed charts for their specific equipment and consumables that should take precedence over this general rule-of-thumb estimate for production work.