Plasma Cutter Help

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I have a few small projects that will require a plasma cutter. I've noticed several 110v/220v units on the web for around $300-$400...considerably less than Miller, Hypertherm etc. I'll not have much use for it after, and wanted to know what, if any models are worth buying. I know the topic gets beaten up here, but an help would be appreciated.Thanks in advance,Mr. Belvedere
Reply:If price is important, I'd look at a quality used machine before I'd go with one of the new cheap imports. Quality control on many of these super inexpensive machines is usually spotty at best, nonexistent at worst. Many time machines like this die within say the 1st 50 hours of use due to component failure. That's not a huge deal under warranty, but with the occasional user, the machine may be a year or two out of warranty when the clock runs out and the machine grenades. It's seldom cost effective to try and repair these inexpensive units as labor quickly exceeds the cost of a new machine. Consider the machine disposable if it dies out of warranty. This is the chance you are taking when you choose price over quality. You are the one who has to weigh if taking a chance is worth the savings. I know it's tough for the occasional user to spend a lot on a machine they just don't use all that much..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:Rent one."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:Some of the smaller ones have a built in air compressor/dryer as well, if you don't have a source of clean/dry air.
Reply:What material - steel or aluminum? How thick? How many parts do you have to cut?Unless it is an intricate pattern, I would use a cutoff wheel or jigsaw unless I really needed a plasma and intended to keep it. If you already know you only need a few parts cut, then hire it done or rent a plasma. You would be surprised how cheaply you can get someone to cut it for you, even if they use a CNC plasma. Then if you still decide to buy one, look for a nice used name brand machine - Hypertherm, Miller, etc.Burt _____________________Miller Syncrowave 250Millermatic 211Miller 375 Plasma Cutter Hobart Handler 12010FtDrillBit.com