Weldfabulous Blog

Plasma cutting is a versatile and precise way to cut a variety of metal materials. Using this process, it is possible to make cuts in virtually any shape, but for those who perform manual cutting rather than CNC cutting, achieving straight lines and accurate circles is difficult.

Templates and guides address this problem by creating a physical barrier against which the operator pulls or pushes the plasma cutting torch. Templates are typically created on a customized basis for a specific project such as metal art, and can be made of metal, wood, or even cardboard.

For those who wish to save money or simply enjoy the satisfaction of making something useful, plasma cutter guides can be created in a DIY fashion. However, for those who don’t want to go the DIY route and want something a bit more versatile and precise, plasma cutting guides from top brand names such as  Hypertherm, Thermal Dynamics, Miller Electric, and others are available.

Choosing a plasma cutting guide

The types of cuts you need to perform -- curves/circles, angles, or straight edges -- will determine which plasma cutting guide is best for you. Some guides perform only one function, while others are multipurpose. When researching cutting guides, keep in mind that your plasma torch may work with certain makes and models of guides but not with others.

Straight cutting

If you need a guide for cutting straight lines and nothing else, a product like the Hypertherm 017042 Straight Edge Cutting Guide is a simple solution. This type of guide uses magnetic blocks to hold the guide in place; the blocks can be removed and used on other guides or templates as well.

On the high end of price and performance is the Thermal Dynamics 7-8911 Strait Line Cutting Guide. This guide is for both straight lines and circles, and includes both magnetic and suction cup mounts.

Circle and radius cutting

For circle or radius cutting, you'll want something like the Victor 0383-0006 D-496 Circle Cutting Attachment or the Hypertherm 027668 Circle Cutting Guide.

Using the Hypertherm 027668 guide, you can set up the radius arm to cut circles up to 20 inches in diameter. For anchoring the radius to the center, the kit provides several means to do so: a center pin, magnetic base, and suction cup. 

For circle cutting on a budget, the Weldcote 4 in 1 cutting attachment is a popular choice. It functions as a circle/radius guide and also as a straight guide.

Other options for radius-cutting include the Lenco 03010 Cb-20, the Miller 253055 Plasma Circle Cutting Guide for XT30 and XT40 Plasma Torch, and the Victor D-496 Cutting Attachment.

Plasma cutting guides for angles

When a project requires a precise straight-line angle, an angle cutting guide like the  Hypertherm 017041 Magnetic Angle Cutting Torch Guide is essential. 

This tool has a built-in protractor which allows you to set the straight-line guide for precise angle cutting.

Shop Weldfabulous for a wide selection of plasma cutting guides

Plasma cutting guides make it possible to perform manual plasma cutting of straight edges, precise angles, and smooth circles, saving time and increasing the quality of your final product. Got questions? Let us help you find the answers: Contact us here on our website or via our social media channels if we can be of service.