Direct Answer
A CNC plasma cutting table uses a plasma torch guided by computer-controlled axes to cut precise shapes from steel plate — primarily connection plates, gusset plates, stiffener plates, shear tabs, base plates, and any other plate item whose geometry is too complex or precise for manual layout and cutting. Plasma tables dramatically reduce layout time and produce cleaner, more precise cuts than manual methods.
Full Explanation
A plasma table reads a DXF or NC cutting file (generated from the Tekla model or a nesting software) and cuts each plate part automatically. Nesting software arranges multiple plate parts on a single sheet of plate to minimize scrap. Modern plasma tables can cut holes (avoiding the need to drill small plates), bevel edges for groove welds, and mark piece marks directly on the part. Plate thickness capability ranges from 1/8" to 4"+ depending on the machine and plasma generator.
What This Means for Your Shop
Plate parts cut on a CNC plasma table from model-generated DXF files have far fewer layout errors than manually-cut parts. If your shop is still manually laying out connection plates with tape and soapstone, you are leaving significant quality and efficiency improvements on the table.
Common Mistakes
Not reviewing nesting layouts for grain direction compliance on plates specified to have specific grain direction (e.g., plates loaded transversely to the rolling direction). Nested plates cut in any orientation may violate specification requirements.
Recommended Process
Generate plate cutting files directly from the Tekla model when possible. Review nesting layouts before cutting for grain direction, cut quality, and edge distance compliance. Implement a DXF file verification step parallel to the NC1 verification for beam members.