Plasma torch cutting guide made from drafting machine

[Peat]

I make clam hoes and I needed a way to easily cross cut, split, and cut points on flat stock. After poking around on you tube I decided that I liked the idea of adapting a drafting machine. Checked Craigslist and found one for cheap. After some trial and error, I have a device I like a lot. My plasma cutter is a cheap one from HF. I used plywood covered with 16 gauge steel as the base for the drafting mechanism. Next I removed the drafting head and made an adapter for the torch.

For cross cuts, I use the built in lock for the drafting head. For "ripping" I fashioned a simple clamp that locks the vertical arm. For cutting the points, I free the vertical and horizontal locks and use a template. I haven't tried tracing any elaborate templates, but it works great for my simple needs. I have it attached to my downdraft welding barrel. I use jigs to hold the work, and they align simply by aligning the jig to the edge of the table.