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tools:manual_plasma:clearance

Manual Plasma Cutter Clearance

Members who are already proficient in the subject matter may apply to receive a clearance by demonstrating a core set of skills and knowledge that allow them to safely and effectively use the equipment.

Most tools in the shop require clearance before solo use. Each tool is different and most are expensive and/or delicate.

During a Proficiency Based Clearance Instructors will provide Protohaven specific customs and rules for the equipment but will not provide technical instruction on the operation of the hardware, or software.

If a member needs to gain additional knowledge or skill they should take a Basic Skills Class to learn the required skills.

The items that will need to be demonstrated to gain the Proficiency Based Clearance are:

General Shop Rules

Be safe

  • Understands safety clearances are required as bare minimum.
  • Understands equipment must never be left unattended.
  • Understands why equipment must be reset after use.

Take care of the tools

  • Will not alter or use equipment beyond limits.
  • Will notify when maintenance is needed.

Keep the shop clean

  • Understands importance of cleaning up after oneself.
  • Will return borrowed tools to original location.
  • Understands anything left outside of your paid monthly or overnight storage may be removed and disposed.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • Knows whether synthetic materials may be worn during use.
  • Knows whether long sleeves can be worn beyond elbows during operation of equipment.
  • Knows whether loose clothing & hair may be worn down.
  • Knows whether open-toed shoes may be worn.
  • Knows whether safety glasses and hearing protection are required during operation.
  • Knows whether safety glasses are required when near someone else operating equipment in the workshop.
  • Knows whether additional PPE is required (e.g. apron, face shield…)

Tool Specific Instruction

Point out the following tool features

Manual Plasma Cutter

  • Maintenance tag
  • Power switch
  • Air inlet
  • Torch connector
  • Ground connector
  • Ground clamp
  • Amperage selector
  • Torch retaining cap
  • Torch nozzle
  • Torch electrode
  • Torch start trigger

Identify & mitigate common hazards

  • Electrical - Piece must be grounded. Don't work with wet or conductive clothing/accessories/PPE or have exposed skin.
  • Heat & Plasma - welding jacket, gloves, and face shield required to avoid burns from torch & hot metal
  • Light - welding face shield needed to prevent UV burns and blindness
  • Noise - wear hearing protection

Allowable Materials

  • Can name two materials that can be plasma cut
  • Can name three materials that cannot be plasma cut

Safe Setup/Operation/Cleanup

Plasma Cutter

  • Demonstrates proper setup of stock to be cut
  • Demonstrates proper shielding of the area to prevent bystander arc flash
  • Demonstrates proper attachment of air line and ground clamp and turning the machine on
  • Demonstrates proper wearing and adjustment of PPE
  • Demonstrates striking an arc and making a freehand cut fully through the material
  • Demonstrates proper cleanup and storage of the plasma cutter, including disconnecting and storing the air line

Knowledge and Technique

  • Knows the signs of worn out plasma consumables while cutting and can check them for wear
  • Can demonstrate taking out and replacing the nozzle and electrode
  • Knows at least 2 sources of reduced edge quality and slag production
tools/manual_plasma/clearance.txt · Last modified: 2024/02/07 18:30 by smartin015