Using a plasma cutter is very convenient and fairly easy.  The benefit is that "freeform" cuts can be made to metal based on guiding the cutter.

This instruction is strictly to show practical operation of a plasma cutter.

Step 1: Choose Work Location

Since we plan on cutting metal, placing the metal on a surface that is safe and allows for freedom of movement is critical.  A "grate" or  similar surface that functions as a table is perfect.

Step 2: Plug in Unit

Ensure that the unit is off and plug it in. 

Step 3: Connect the Air

Connect the external air compressor to the plasma cutter. This is to ensure that the stream of plasma remains under high pressure. To attach the fittings, recede the outer flange of the female connection and insert the male connection.

Step 4: Turn the Air On

Turn on the air flow.

Step 5: Attach the Ground Clamp

Set the metal that you are using on the table and attach the ground clamp close to where you will be cutting.

Step 6: Turn on the Machine

Turn on the machine by flipping the switch behind the unit into the ON position.

Step 7: Set the Current

Overloading the nozzle (that is, exceeding the operating current of the nozzle) will quickly damage the nozzle. The current intensity should be 95% of the operating current of the nozzle. For example: 100A nozzle current intensity should be set to 95A.

Step 8: Cut the Metal

Use the trigger on the gun to activate the plasma cutter.  Note the trigger has a safety that must be lifted before you can depress the trigger.  Keep the cutter (nozzle end) close to the metal and use the guide surrounding the nozzle to trace templates if you have them.

Step 9: Turn Off the Machine

When you are finished cutting your metal, turn off the machine.

Step 10: Disconnect the Ground Clamp

Disconnect the ground clamp from the metal you are working on.

Step 11: Turn Off Air

Turn off the air by rotating the lever 90 degrees, from inline to perpendicular to the line.

Step 12: Remove oxides from air or oxygen nozzles
When air or oxygen plasma is selected, oxides will be deposited in the nozzle, which will affect the air flow and reduce the life of the consumables. Wipe the inside of the nozzle with a clean flannel to eliminate oxides.

Step 13: Wind Up All Hoses

Wrap up the plasma gun line, air line, and ground line.

Step 14: Check the air flow and cooling flow, in addition to the following inspection content, users can add inspection items according to their own use.
One of the most common causes of torch damage is the lack of cooling flow, it is requiring frequent inspection of the air flow to the torch;