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How to Cut Perfect Circles with a Plasma Cutter: Complete Guide

Jun 23, 2026

How to Cut Perfect Circles with a Plasma Cutter: Complete Guide

Cutting perfect circles with a plasma cutter is one of the most common tasks in metal fabrication. Whether you are cutting flanges, access holes, or decorative metal pieces, a clean round cut saves hours of grinding and finishing work. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about plasma circle cutting.

Why Use a Circle Cutting Compass?

A plasma circle cutting compass is the most reliable tool for achieving drift-free round cuts. Unlike freehand cutting, a compass attachment guides the torch in a perfect arc around a center pivot point. The result is a clean, burr-free edge with zero oval distortion.

The WeldingStop Heavy-Duty Plasma Circle Cutting Compass features a neodymium magnetic base with six strong magnets, a low-friction guide wheel, and an adjustable diameter range from 10 cm to 100 cm, making it suitable for most circular cutting applications.

Step-by-Step: Cutting a Circle with a Plasma Cutter
1

Prepare Your Workpiece

Ensure the steel surface is clean and free of rust, paint, or oil. The magnetic base requires direct contact with bare ferromagnetic metal for maximum holding force.

2

Set the Cutting Diameter

Measure and mark the center point of your desired circle. Adjust the compass arm to the required radius using the printed metric scale. Lock the arm in place with the lock buckle.

3

Attach the Magnetic Base

Position the center magnet directly over your marked center point. The six neodymium magnets will lock the compass firmly onto the steel surface. For vertical or overhead work, press firmly to ensure full magnetic contact.

4

Mount the Torch

Attach your AG-60 or SG-55 plasma torch to the compass guide. Adjust the roller wheel height to maintain a consistent standoff distance from the workpiece.

5

Cut the Circle

Start your plasma cutter and begin cutting along the guided path. Move smoothly at a steady speed, letting the compass guide wheel follow the arc. The low-friction pivot ensures smooth rotation with minimal effort.

Common Applications for Plasma Circle Cutting
⚙
Pipe Flanges Cut precise flange rings for pipe connections and fittings.
◑
Access Holes Create manway openings, hand holes, and inspection ports in tanks and boilers.
⚖
Mounting Plates Fabricate circular mounting plates for motors, pumps, and equipment.
⚙
Auto Body Repair Cut round patch panels and access holes for collision repair.
◻
HVAC Ductwork Make round branch openings and transitions in sheet metal ducts.
🎨
Artistic Metalwork Create custom circular designs for architectural metal art and signage.
Tips for Best Results
Pro Tips
  • Always use sharp/new consumables (electrode, nozzle) for cleaner cuts.
  • Maintain a consistent travel speed - too fast causes drag marks, too slow creates excessive kerf.
  • For thicker materials (above 1/2 inch), make multiple passes rather than forcing one deep cut.
  • Clean the magnetic base surface regularly to maintain maximum holding force.
  • Practice on scrap metal first to dial in your speed and standoff distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Can I cut circles on stainless steel with a magnetic compass?
A: The magnetic base requires a ferromagnetic surface. For non-magnetic stainless steel, clamp a steel guide plate to the workpiece first, then attach the magnetic base to the guide plate.
Q What is the smallest circle I can cut?
A: The minimum cutting diameter is 10 cm (3.9 inches) with the WeldingStop compass. For smaller holes, consider a drill or hole saw instead.
Q Will the magnetic base slip during cutting?
A: No. The six neodymium magnets provide strong holding force even on vertical and overhead surfaces. The base stays firmly in place under normal cutting vibration.

Ready to Cut Perfect Circles?

Get the WeldingStop Heavy-Duty Plasma Circle Cutting Compass today and achieve professional results every time.

Shop Now - Plasma Circle Cutting Compass

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