Testing a Plasma Cutter When Buying: No Shop Air

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One possibility is that you have electricity but no air.If you have a small portable compressor that is one thing, but I was thinking that a simple portable compressed air tank (like they use to inflate tires) may be just enough capacity to make a test cut.You would take a gamble on what air couplings/fittings you might bring.I have what looks like an ESAB PCM 875 that is for sale at some kind of business garage sale.  Of course, my luck they will think it is worth gold.ThanksTom
Reply:Unless your "portable" tank is large, your test will be a very,very short run before you fall below the 70PIS required. You won't know fittings till you see it. Air dryer??
Reply:Take a 80cf N2 tank and a 150psi reg along. I know my LWS will let me borrow a set up for the day and only charges for the fill.Why buy it for $10 when you can build it yourself for $100.
Reply:70 psi?  The Thermal Dynamics 5xr I was looking at recently only required 50 psi - so I guess pressure is an issue on different units.Well, I wasn't thinking of that much testing.  If it cut, I would call that a success.  Being a noobee, I don't know what a "bad" cut is yet.Actually, the small portable compressor is starting to sound like a good idea.  The lightest compressor with high output (125 psi) is that single hot dog cheapo that is out there.  It weighs 30 lbs.  And that is pretty light for a compressor.  There is a light pancake out there too (30 lbs) but also a heavy one (50 lbs).  I think the light one only goes to 100 psi.  I like the 125 psi for driving nail guns.  And 30lbs is sooo easy to carry up a ladder.
Reply:an ESAB 875 is 75 psi required. Excellent machine if the price is right..  Be sure its the 3/1 phase model and not the 3 phase only model as I am guessing you don't have 3 phaseTiger Sales:  AHP Distributor    www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P,  Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma.  For Sale:  Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun.  Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:The T-D 5xr requires around 90 psi minimum to the rear panel.....the preesure going to the torch is 50 to 60 psi.Jim Colt Originally Posted by Cardinal Grammeter70 psi?  The Thermal Dynamics 5xr I was looking at recently only required 50 psi - so I guess pressure is an issue on different units.Well, I wasn't thinking of that much testing.  If it cut, I would call that a success.  Being a noobee, I don't know what a "bad" cut is yet.Actually, the small portable compressor is starting to sound like a good idea.  The lightest compressor with high output (125 psi) is that single hot dog cheapo that is out there.  It weighs 30 lbs.  And that is pretty light for a compressor.  There is a light pancake out there too (30 lbs) but also a heavy one (50 lbs).  I think the light one only goes to 100 psi.  I like the 125 psi for driving nail guns.  And 30lbs is sooo easy to carry up a ladder.
Reply:Take a 80cf N2 tank and a 150psi reg along. I know my LWS will let me borrow a set up for the day and only charges for the fill.