Need to buy a plasma cutter

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I need to buy a plasma cutter for the house, it is not going to be used for commercial use but I want it to have enough nuts behind it.  Now I have seen all the forum posts on all the different types of plasma cutters, and and allot of people say to go with thermadyne but I have owned Miller in the past.  I actually owned a Miller spectrum 875, and was happy with it.  I've seen allot of posts saying that Millers are crap for plasma cutters.  I'm wanting to buy a Miller spectrum 675.  What is the max alluminum cutting running off of 120 volt?  I seen the specs for the steel, but not alluminum.  I'm open to different brands of welders but I want a good 1 that can run off of 120/240, and both 50 and 60 hertz because I'm going to Italy
Reply:Does HTP make a plasma yet?If so, try one of them. They are made in Italy!I'm a Hypertherm fan myselfBuy American, or don't whine when you end up on the bread line.
Reply:I just did a test using the Longevity forcecut 42i on 110 vac I was able to cut 3/8" aluminum cleanly.    3 peices of anodized 1/8" clamped together.  Dross came off with a single tap from chipping hammer and its a 50/60 htz, dual voltage machine.Never used a miller so cannot comment on that.  you may want to also look at ESAB as they will have great European support.. Attached ImagesLast edited by soutthpaw; 01-11-2013 at 06:34 PM.Tiger 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:Originally Posted by WeldingMachineDoes HTP make a plasma yet?If so, try one of them. They are made in Italy!I'm a Hypertherm fan myself
Reply:Originally Posted by soutthpawI just did a test using the Longevity forcecut 42i on 110 vac I was able to cut 3/8" aluminum cleanly.    3 peices of anodized 1/8" clamped together.  Dross came off with a single tap from chipping hammer and its a 50/60 htz, dual voltage machine.
Reply:Freehand, kneeling on my freeing cold garage floor.  Its below freezing in my garage right now and had to do it quick as both kids are home and wife is not.   Hopefully I can try a few more times some time this weekend to see if I can get a less jagged edge.   But dross came of easy.  Also looks like a good test to compare to my ESAB plasma..Tiger 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 only company I know that makes a 110v/220v is the longevity one. Hypertherm is all 220v and the way everyone will tell you to go.I had a drag-gun from TD and it was 110v, and had it's own compressor. Great for THIN sheet metal. Now I have the hobart 250ci (110v, built in compressor) again great for THIN metal. My hobart can cut 1/8" steel if you go slow, but with 1/8" aluminum it SUCKS. So I guess it all depends on how thick you want to cut and if you have a good air compressor.The hypertherm 45 needs 6cfh at 90psi.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleThe only company I know that makes a 110v/220v is the longevity one. Hypertherm is all 220v and the way everyone will tell you to go.I had a drag-gun from TD and it was 110v, and had it's own compressor. Great for THIN sheet metal. Now I have the hobart 250ci (110v, built in compressor) again great for THIN metal. My hobart can cut 1/8" steel if you go slow, but with 1/8" aluminum it SUCKS. So I guess it all depends on how thick you want to cut and if you have a good air compressor.The hypertherm 45 needs 6cfh at 90psi.
Reply:Originally Posted by shovelonThey do!
Reply:Yes the 625 x-treme cuts 3/8" aluminum with ease (on 240v). Yes the 625 run either 120 or 240!  Here is what Jody from weldingtipsandtricks.com says about the 625 x-tremendous:" Its (Miller 625 X-Treme) a beast. I cut 1/2" thick steel with ease. 3/8" aluminum like butter, I cut chromoly, stainless, nickel, aluminum, magnesium, titanium, and copper.  This Miller plasma cutter is like a honey badger. It does not care what type of metal you throw at it."   Here's his video on the 625:I love my Miller 625.    It's so light weight! Only 21 lbs.  I used to have the 375 x-treme and that we a beautiful machine too.Lincoln Power Mig 216Lincoln AC/DC-225/125Miller  625 X-Treme PlasmaMiller 211 Forney 95FI-A 301HF 91110Victor Journeyman O/PMilwaukee DaytonMakita  Baileigh NRA Life Member
Reply:you missed a key part of the OP's question.  he wants to know the max thickness of aluminum it will cut on 120vac not on 230vac.  Just sayin'   maybe someone can try cutting aluminum with a miller on 120vac and post resultsTiger 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:Originally Posted by soutthpawyou missed a key part of the OP's question.  he wants to know the max thickness of aluminum it will cut on 120vac not on 230vac.  Just sayin'   maybe someone can try cutting aluminum with a miller on 120vac and post results
Reply:Power Max 30.A few weldersA lot of hammersA whole lot of C-clamps
Reply:Originally Posted by WeldingMachineMy pm 30 is 110/220V actually.
Reply:Thank you all for your replies!  I wonder if the lws will let me test run their diiferent plasmas.  Reason for 120volt is because thats all i can get right now living in military housing.  I can weld 1/8 aluminum, steel, and stainless steel using 120 volt off of my Miller dynasty 200 dx.  If I can use 120 volt to cut 1/8 aluminum I'd be fine.
Reply:Check out the Hypertherm 30. The link provided has a list of the cutting capacities. http://www.hypertherm.com/en-us/Prod...ax30.jsp#specsThermal Arc 210 FabricatorHypertherm PM 45and lots of other tools the wife doesn't know about
Reply:110 with a 20amp breaker will cut 1/8 aluminum no problem. But depending what you're building. I cut most of my aluminum with a skill/table saw.
Reply:Originally Posted by aDreamSoReal110 with a 20amp breaker will cut 1/8 aluminum no problem. But depending what you're building. I cut most of my aluminum with a skill/table saw.
Reply:The Hypertherm Powermax30 does an excellent job on aluminum, steel and stainless. It auto detects the input voltage and runs the same on both 120 and 230 volts. As with any electrical device that is designed for mutiple voltage operation....it will draw more amperage on the lower voltage input....than it will on the higher voltage input.You can operate the Powermax30 on a standard 120 volt, 20 amp circuit and sever up through 1/2" steel and 1/2" aluminum.....however expect your 20 amp breaker to trip after about 15 to 30 seconds of cutting on thicker materials.....this is because the thicker you cut....the plasma produces a longer (higher voltage) arc....which requires more power from the input power circuit. On 120 volts input....if you are cutting any material thinner than 1/4"....the Powermax30 will draw less than 20 amps....and will operate fine. If you cut thicker...the Powermax30 can draw up to 26 amps....meaning it will eventually trip a 20 amp circuit breaker. For thicker materials.....you can either have a heavier circuit (a 30 amp 120 volt circuit is one possibility), or connect to a 220 volt circuit (15 amps is all that is necessary)....and there will be no issues.So...the Hypertherm PMX30 cuts exactly the same on boh 120 and 230 volt input power....provided that the input circuit has a high enough amperage rating to maintain the required input power.Anything thinner than 1/4" (aluminum, steel, stainless) will be fine on either 120 volt or 230 volt input. I put the practical severance thickness for the 30 at 3/8" on aluminum and stainless, and 1/2" on steel. The 30 is a great little machine.....and did I mention that when you buy it your money stays here in the USA? they are designed and built in Lebanon, NH, USA by employee owners of Hypertherm.Attached are some severance pictures of steel cuts with a Powermax30 operated on a 30 amp 120 volt circuit.Jim Colt Originally Posted by usmcruzI need to buy a plasma cutter for the house, it is not going to be used for commercial use but I want it to have enough nuts behind it.  Now I have seen all the forum posts on all the different types of plasma cutters, and and allot of people say to go with thermadyne but I have owned Miller in the past.  I actually owned a Miller spectrum 875, and was happy with it.  I've seen allot of posts saying that Millers are crap for plasma cutters.  I'm wanting to buy a Miller spectrum 675.  What is the max alluminum cutting running off of 120 volt?  I seen the specs for the steel, but not alluminum.  I'm open to different brands of welders but I want a good 1 that can run off of 120/240, and both 50 and 60 hertz because I'm going to Italy
Reply:Thanks allot Jim, thats what i needed to know!!   Southpaw, id go with longevity but im not too familiar with the longevity line.  Ill have to research them.  I use handheld cutter, that uses a dual counter rotatating blades to cut straight lines.  If i need a fine line, i use an angle grinder with a thin cutting disc.  Id be using the plasma cutter for contour cuts.
Reply:Jim, what criteria do you (hypertherm) use to determine cut versus severance?I have not found any standard definition for itLast edited by soutthpaw; 01-12-2013 at 05:42 PM.Tiger 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:Originally Posted by soutthpawJim, what criteria do you (hypertherm) use to determine cut versus severance?I have not found any standard definition for it
Reply:Cut=razor precision,   Severence=hatchet
Reply:Cut speed of less than 10 inches per minute puts you in the severance range with Hypertherm plasma cutting systems.  The rated production thickness is the thickness that you can cut at the factory rated duty cycle....and generally is also the thickness that can be pierced on a cnc machine with a fully functional height control.The nice thing about these ratings is that you can be assured the system will be able to achieve them day after day. They are not the absolute maximum capability with an expert operator.Jim Colt Originally Posted by soutthpawJim, what criteria do you (hypertherm) use to determine cut versus severance?I have not found any standard definition for it
Reply:Originally Posted by jimcoltCut speed of less than 10 inches per minute puts you in the severance range with Hypertherm plasma cutting systems.  The rated production thickness is the thickness that you can cut at the factory rated duty cycle....and generally is also the thickness that can be pierced on a cnc machine with a fully functional height control.The nice thing about these ratings is that you can be assured the system will be able to achieve them day after day. They are not the absolute maximum capability with an expert operator.Jim ColtJust purchased the hypertherm powermax 30 building america model.  Thanks for the help guys!!
Reply:Thanks for buying the Hypertherm Powermax30......we realize there are quite a few choices....yet the employee owners of Hypertherm will work hard to ensure that you are 100% satisfied with your new plasma.If you have any questions...feel free!Jim Originally Posted by usmcruzJust purchased the hypertherm powermax 30 building america model.  Thanks for the help guys!!
Reply:Jim,Any idea on who has the best price on a hypertherm powermax 45 hand torch 12.5 feet? Or do you guys have any demos you can sell me?Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Gamble.....being a factory guy, I only know list prices. To search for the best price I would have to get online and search for the best advertised price....but then I would go to my local dealer. They likely cannot match the price, but often are willing to include some extras (gloves, consumables, glasses, etc.). Also....as far as I know the shortest hand torch lead for the 45 is 20' long. The 20' torch assembly is part number 088008.I am assuming you are just looking for the torch assembly...not the whole system. All demo units that our sales department uses are sold to our distributors. I cannot even buy them...unless I buy from the distributor.Jim Colt Originally Posted by GambleJim,Any idea on who has the best price on a hypertherm powermax 45 hand torch 12.5 feet? Or do you guys have any demos you can sell me?
Reply:I bought my hypertherm with a machine torch and I haven't been able to use it yet, so I just need the whole hand torch assembly. I'll search that part number, thanks.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Great, i need a new compressor!  Mine only pushes 2.4 scfms at 90psi.  Jim what is the difference between a home depot water filter @ $23, and the $187 fancy one made for the hypertherm.
Reply:I don't know anything about the HomeDepot filter. I would suggest that you don't get either one....if you want a good filter buy the Motor Guard M60 with a few spare filters....shop it online for the best price.. Your compressor will work for short cuts...depending on the tank size. I use a portable compressor for cutting on jobs away from my shop...it produces 3.8cfm@90 and I get about 20-30 seconds of cutting between cycles.Jim Colt Originally Posted by usmcruzGreat, i need a new compressor!  Mine only pushes 2.4 scfms at 90psi.  Jim what is the difference between a home depot water filter @ $23, and the $187 fancy one made for the hypertherm.
Reply:This one seems to be the most popular for the CNC guys (most of them use hypertherm products) and it's the cheapest price I found. I bought one, but can't comment as I'm still waiting for a compressor to go on sale.http://www.tooltopia.com/motorguard-m45.aspxI've also read that if you want the best of the best it's probably this guy, but big moneyhttp://www.usaweld.com/Max-Dry-for-P...-p/25310-2.htmTorchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:This is the same exact plasma i got from the same exact guy"torchking" http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item...d=221162646258I think it comes with a motorguard.  Is that the same one as your recommendations?
Reply:It comes with a disposable Mororguard.....which is made for one time use with paint spray applications. Not adequate for more than a few minutes of plasma cutting....unless your air is already clean and dry! Originally Posted by usmcruzThis is the same exact plasma i got from the same exact guy"torchking" http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item...d=221162646258I think it comes with a motorguard.  Is that the same one as your recommendations?
Reply:Thanks for clearing that up!
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleThis one seems to be the most popular for the CNC guys (most of them use hypertherm products) and it's the cheapest price I found. I bought one, but can't comment as I'm still waiting for a compressor to go on sale.http://www.tooltopia.com/motorguard-m45.aspxI've also read that if you want the best of the best it's probably this guy, but big moneyhttp://www.usaweld.com/Max-Dry-for-P...-p/25310-2.htm
Reply:^^We all would. Go with the one from tooltopia. Works well and it's not expensive.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by Gamble^^We all would. Go with the one from tooltopia. Works well and it's not expensive.
Reply:Is the deluxe circle cutter worth the money, or should i buy the basic model.  Can anyone recommend a good 5 micron oil/water seperator, for pre motorguard.
Reply:Scratch the advice on the oil water seperator, i bought a 5 micron husky from home depot.  By the way, i got my plasma today, and that powermax 30 on 115 volts frigin rocks!!!  This machine is worth every penny!
Reply:Keep in mind that every filter creates a pressure drop....and the pressure drop will get bigger over time (as the filter gets partially plugged or saturated with mositure). There are a lot of calls logged into the Hypertherm tech service department that have plasma erors that indicate a momentary low air pressure...which shuts down the plasma. If the only pressure gauge is back at the compressor....and you have a filter or two between the compressor and the plasma....the pressure entering the plasma (only under flowing conditions) will always be lower than back at the compressor.It is a good idea to install a pressure gauge right at the rear panel inlet on the plasma....a simple gauge setup can be built from local hardware store parts (see attached pictures of mine), and will show you static pressure, and the resulting drop when the air starts flowing to the torch.And....thanks for buying the Powermax30....all of the employee / owners of Hypertherm will work hard to ensure your satisfaction.Jim Colt Originally Posted by usmcruzScratch the advice on the oil water seperator, i bought a 5 micron husky from home depot.  By the way, i got my plasma today, and that powermax 30 on 115 volts frigin rocks!!!  This machine is worth every penny!
Reply:Jim, Do you only own welding stuff that starts with the letter "H"???Surplus Center has a whold bunch of different PSI gauges very cheap if anyone is looking for one...Tiger 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:Thanks again Jim, your help is appreciated.  I ran her for the first time yesterday.  I didnt get my filter in the mail yet so im using the D-13 disposable that it came with the next couple of days.  On my 2.4 scfm @ 90 psi compressor, the plasma ran flawlessly.  I will go out today and pick up a gauge for at the plasma.  Thanks again everyone.
Reply:There is a Millermatic250 (old, but good) sitting next to the Hobart Handler210! That little (low cost) 210 is a hell of a Mig though....for the price!Jim Originally Posted by soutthpawJim, Do you only own welding stuff that starts with the letter "H"???Surplus Center has a whold bunch of different PSI gauges very cheap if anyone is looking for one...
Reply:I just ordered the deluxe circle cutting guide and consumable kit.  Ill let you know how that circle kit performs.
Reply:Scored that $99 harbor freight locking drawer rolling cart for $49, and made it my plasma cart.  Went with the M26 Motorguard(guy on ebay sold the filter housing plus 5 m723 filters for $119), and a husky 5 micron water seperator($23 @ home depot).  The drawer fits 4 filters, circle cutting guide, and the spare consumables kit nicely.  Just thought id share.  Attached Images
Reply:U have a welder and a Plasma and zip ties is the best u can doAt those prices its not even worth building a cart...  what about putting palsma on bottom shelf for lower center of gravity and gives u an extra work surface on top..Tiger 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:Originally Posted by soutthpawU have a welder and a Plasma and zip ties is the best u can doAt those prices its not even worth building a cart...  what about putting palsma on bottom shelf for lower center of gravity and gives u an extra work surface on top..
Reply:Circle cutter guide is top notch!!!