most economical air filter for plasma?

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I just ordered up the Hypertherm Powermax 30 and need to get some sort of filter for my compressor. This setup will be used in the shop and in the field, so I need a simple setup that can be mounted directly to my compressor or at least easy to hook up on site.  I'm interested in the most economic solution for now. My shop is temporary and I'm always moving stuff around and in and out of my truck, so it needs to be a simple setup. For the first job I'll be using it at I'll be using it well away from the compressor with probably about 100 feet of air hose.I know this has been discussed before, but I've been searching and reading until my eyes feel like they are ready to bleed and I still have questions.I was initially thinking of something like this ($30 filter from HF):http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...temnumber=1118or even this ($6 filter from HF):http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=94733or of course the highly recomomended Motor Guard ($80 for M-26):http://weldingdirect.stores.yahoo.net/subairfilfor.htmlQuestions:-Can I get away with the air filter mounted to the compressor then run 100 feet of hose directly into the plasma, or do I need to have the filter mounted at the plasma end? -A lot of people recommend the Motor Guard filters like the M-26, which is about $80. Will the $30 harbor freight filter (or even the $6 one) do the job or do I need to step up and buy the Motor Guard? I'm not afraid to invest in good tools of they are worth it. What are the main differences?Last edited by slagmatic; 11-11-2008 at 05:41 PM.
Reply:I bought a Hypertherm Powermax 30 in June.  You are going to be very happy with that machine!For an inexpensive filter go visit the nearest NAPA Auto Parts store.  Tell 'em what you need and they will set you up for about 50 bucks, right off the shelf.  Filter, water/oil separator in a single unit.-MondoMember, AWSLincoln ProMIG 140Lincoln AC TombstoneCraftsman Lathe 12 x 24 c1935Atlas MFC Horizontal MillCraftsman Commercial Lathe 12 x 36 c1970- - - I'll just keep on keepin' on.
Reply:I just picked up a good water seperator/ filter drier from Grainger last week for a compressor for only $48. Replacement elements were available for like $13, so that's a good deal, as they should be changed about every 6 months for shop use to annually for light use.And then, after so much work...... you have it in your hand, and you look over to your side...... and the runner has run off. Leaving you holding the prize, wondering when the runner will return.
Reply:I would get the best filter for both the plasma cutter (on the plasma) and for the compressor. That's the only economical solution for the plasma consumables and your air tools. Water is the enemy for any thing ran off an air compressor.Miller Thunderbolt 225Millermatic 130 XPLincoln HD 100 Forney C-5bt Arc welderPlasma Cutter Gianteach Cut40ACent Machinery Bandsaw Cent Machinery 16Speed Drill PressChicago Electric 130amp tig/90 ArcHobart 190 Mig spoolgun ready
Reply:The motorguard filter works well....just make sure you use the proper element for it! Also...as suggested....filtering that is adequate for automotive paint spray applications is good for plasma...so shop around in that area and you may find the best value.You need to remove moisture...and certainly oils...as well as any particulate matter. If this is done adequately you will easily save the expense of the filter over time with less consumables use.Jim
Reply:It is good to filter at the tank and at the machine because a lot of condensation comes from the air hose itself.  Additionally,  you might want to consider purchasing a seperate air hose just for your plasma machine, particularly if you are running a lube product through your air tools, from your filter and remove your lube device as well.Esab Migmaster 250Lincoln SA 200Lincoln Ranger 8Smith Oxy Fuel setupEverlast PowerPlasma 80Everlast Power iMIG 160Everlast Power iMIG 205 Everlast Power iMIG 140EEverlast PowerARC 300Everlast PowerARC 140STEverlast PowerTIG 255EXT
Reply:Originally Posted by lugweldIt is good to filter at the tank and at the machine because a lot of condensation comes from the air hose itself.  Additionally,  you might want to consider purchasing a seperate air hose just for your plasma machine, particularly if you are running a lube product through your air tools, from your filter and remove your lube device as well.