A plasma cutting machine uses a high-velocity stream of ionized gas (plasma) to cut through conductive materials such as steel, aluminum, and copper. The plasma is created by heating a gas (such as air, nitrogen, or argon) to a high temperature using an electrical arc. The high-energy plasma stream is directed through a small nozzle and onto the material to be cut, where it melts and vaporizes the metal. Plasma cutting machines can be used for a variety of applications, including cutting sheet metal, plate metal, and pipe. They are often used in fabrication and manufacturing settings because of their speed, precision, and ability to cut through thick materials.