Plasma cutter info?

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I am looking to purchase the Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 39.Can any one tell me (from experience) the maximum thickness of aluminum it will cut?This information is not published.The machine is  rated for 1/4" mild steel.I assume max. aluminum thickness will be less?
Reply:I couldn't find anything either. I have the cutmaster 38.It was rated up to 1/4 and sever around 3/8 aluminum. I will find the manual later today and see for sure what it say. I have cut 1/4 alum with mine and it did a very nice cut.Miller DVI2Lincoln Precision Tig 225Thermodynamics Cutmaster 38Everything else needed.
Reply:Fabster,Can't address the TD39 specifically (I use a Hypertherm PM 1250) but generally speaking, when cutting aluminum, you have to "derate" your machine about 25% from it's capability in mild steel.If cutting aluminum is your primary purpose in purchasing a plasma cutter, you may be better served looking at other alternatives.My PM 1250 (80A machine) will "cut" 3/4" aluminum.  It's not what I would consider a "clean cut" as you would get if cutting mild steel or even SS.  I've tried different amp nozzles, to include fine cut ones, and the product is still less than great.Most of the aluminum cutting I do is with a Milwaukee Metal Cutting Saw (similar to a skil saw) with an aluminum blade or with a band saw.  A jig saw works well on lighter gauge material also.You'll find that the "cut edge" from a plasma cut piece still needs to be prepped (ground) in order to get satisfactory welds.  The metal adjacent to the plasma cut has been altered and if not removed, will cause problems with welding.  This is generally not a problem with aluminum which has been saw cut or sheared.Just something to consider.Syncro 250 DX Dynasty 200 DXMM 251 w/30A SG XMT 304 w/714 Feeder & Optima PulserHH187Dialarc 250 AC/DCHypertherm PM 1250Smith, Harris, Victor O/ASmith and Thermco Gas MixersAccess to a full fab shop with CNC Plasma, Water Jet, etc.
Reply:Thank-you.Good information.