Method for Plasma Cutting Workpieces

Method for plasma cutting of workpieces, using at least one plasma cutting torch that comprises one plasma torch body, one electrode, and one nozzle having a nozzle opening through which at least one plasma gas (PG) or plasma gas mixture flows and which constricts a plasma jet, wherein the method comprises:

• positioning the plasma cutting torch in relation to a workpiece;
• igniting a pilot arc between the electrode and the nozzle of the plasma cutting torch and generating a transmitted plasma arc between the electrode of the plasma cutting torch and the workpiece;
• plunge cutting the plasma jet into the workpiece, until the plasma jet is all the way through the workpiece;
• and
• then cutting the workpiece by guiding the plasma cutting torch with an advancing speed v4 at a plasma torch distance d4 from the workpiece with a cutting current I4, so that a kerf with a kerf width is produced, characterized in that, before the plunge cutting of the plasma jet into and through the workpiece, a washout is formed by the workpiece being exposed to the plasma jet from the workpiece surface at least for a duration t2 such that material of the workpiece is removed from the workpiece surface and the washout is produced.