What to ask, used plasma cutter

admin

Hi,I was hoping that the community could arm me with some knowledge. I am looking to purchase a plasma cutter. Found a couple locally. Before I pull the trigger what types of questions should I be asking the owner?
Reply:I would ask how much its been used, and what its been used for, but if everything checks out, and you can cut with it, I'd go for it. Have fun [Account Abandoned 8/8/16 Please Do Not Attempt Contact Or Expect A Reply]. See you on YouTube! -ChuckE2009
Reply:I suggest posting make/model and possibly pics here so the hive mind could give feedback.
Reply:The telling factor will be how well it cuts.  When you inspect the unit look carefully at the electrode and shield.  This will give you an idea if it has been abused by running worn electrodes.  Overall the general condition is the most important thing.  Used equipment was all driven only on sunday to church by the little old lady down the street. most owners are unlikely to disclose if a machine has been run hard and put up wet.  A close inspection, then a test cut or two on material that tests the limits of the machine and call it good.BobI'm spending my Kids inheritance, I dont like him that much anyway!!!!!!Enuff tools to do the job, enough sense to use em.Anybody got a spare set of kidneys?  Trade?
Reply:Rbeckett - I was thinking the same thing. When I go to look at it I was going to take the tip apart to inspect as well as bring some scrap 1/8 and 3/16 pieces to do some test cuts.
Reply:I would be sure to check the model number for availability of parts. Make sure you can get it serviced, get an owner's manual and get parts or it will be an expensive decoration for the shop. Most name brands are no problem. Be sure to look at the entire hose assembly for cuts, connections, and abuse. Those are expensive to replace. Verify any claims for how thick it will cut. Many of those are exaggerated - "This thing will cut 1" plate, no problem!". Really?Burt _____________________Miller Syncrowave 250Millermatic 211Miller 375 Plasma Cutter Hobart Handler 12010FtDrillBit.com
Reply:unless you already know the answer,  the fist thing to ask on a purchase like this is "what are the power requirements"i find that many adds dont include this,  so this could be a three phase 575v machine that you have no way to power.after that,  verify that it works and consumables are readily available.XMT 350 MPa, w/D52-DTA 185 TSWHarris of
Reply:Make sure that whatever you buy has parts and service (not exchange) available and that it can be done in a timely manner.  Hose, guns and work cables do take a beating so in addition to inspecting the nozzle for worn parts, obvious attempts to repair tha whip/gun should be investigated thouroughly.  A replacement torch for my machine is not cheap and there is no excuse to need one except in limited circumstances.  Did you get a make, model and serial number yet?  That will really help you make sound comparisons and help you avoid units with known defects and other problems/issues,  Hope this helps. BobI'm spending my Kids inheritance, I dont like him that much anyway!!!!!!Enuff tools to do the job, enough sense to use em.Anybody got a spare set of kidneys?  Trade?
Reply:It's a Hypertherm Powermax 190c. I believe Hyperthem is made by Thermal Dynamics correct? Looks like the 190c went out of production a few years ago.
Reply:Hypertherm and Thermal Dynamics are competitors.  I have a Thermal Dynamics and it's a good machine.  Many guys on here have Hypertherms and they seem to be good machines.Dynasty200DX w/coolmate1MM210MM VintageESAB miniarc161ltsLincoln AC225Victor O/A, Smith AW1ACutmaster 81IR 2475N7.5FPRage3Jancy USA1019" SBAEAD-200LE
Reply:None of Hypertherm products were ever made by Thermal Dynamics...they are a competitor! However....there was a relationship between Hypertherm and Miller......Hypertherm has produced Millers plasma torches for many years.....and Miller built the Hypertherm Powermax190, Powermax350 and Powermax380 plasma systems. All of these systems have been discontinued...the 190 production stopped about 2 years ago. Miller torches however are still made by Hypertherm.......all of Hypertherms current plasma systems are designed and built by Hypertherm in their main plant in Hanover NH, USA.The 190 C is a 12 amp system with an onboard compressor that was aimed at sheet metal and auto body type work. It can cut 1/8" steel at relatively slow speeds......and can sever 3/16"....maybe 1/4" with a good operator. It operates on 120 volts.Jim Colt    Hypertherm Originally Posted by BoSoxIt's a Hypertherm Powermax 190c. I believe Hyperthem is made by Thermal Dynamics correct? Looks like the 190c went out of production a few years ago.
Reply:Went and looked at over the weekend, machine is great condition. Brought some scrap pieces with me to do some test cuts. It cut them but needs a new tip. Some cosmetic scratches on the cover but the cables look great. The owner said he has had it for about two year and only has used it a few times. I thought that was kind of funny for "only being used a few times" all of the spare tips were worn.Anyway I ended up taking it home. Took the cover off once I got back to see how dirty the inside would be. I figured the owner had just given it a good wipe down. To my surprise the inside was just as clean as the outside. Light dust but no major signs of heavy use or operating in a dirty environment. Did notice that the transformer said Miller on it. So it confirms what jimcolt was saying.On a scale from 1-10, 10 being brand new out the box I would rate this at a 7.5 or 8. For $450 I think I paid a fair price for it. Also wanted to mention that the manual says it will cut from 18GA up to 1/4".
Reply:The worn tips could very well be from poor air quality, I would check its internal filter and clean or replace it. If he was using it in a very humid area it would have moisture problems that can kill tips pretty quick. Dragging the tip can also kill them quick unless its a shielded drag tip, otherwise you need to use a standoff or hold the torch off the piece. Best thing I did for my miller was to put a drag tip on it for use on thinner material, cut quality was better and travel speeds were faster