HF plasma cutter power requirement? (model 95136)

[myredracer]

Just got a Chicago Electric (HF) model 95136 plasma cutter off CL. Only $225 and it works fine and hasn't seen much use. Appears well built and these seem to have had good reviews around the internet. Sure a heck of a lot of electrical components inside these little boxes... Has the pilot arc which is a nice feature. Just need to find some consumable parts for the torch - are these generic or specific to this PC?

It has a 3#10 AWG power cord on it. Would that be original? (Guessing yes.) Not sure on the breaker requirement - manual states input is 19.2 amps but is that the max. draw or the wire/breaker requirement? (Guessing actual max. FLA.) I need a 30 amp (220 volt) breaker? If I use an extension cord, would I use #10 or would #8 be better. Can't ever see needing more than about a 20' extension. That would allow me to get to the farthest corner of "my" shop (attached to our house) or to outside in front of the shop. My compressor is supplied by #10 wire, but the distance from the panel to compressor would be about 45' overall. Maybe I should install a new 30 amp outlet near the panel and use #8 wire?

Might as well ask another question. When I let go of the trigger, the air continues to flow. Is that normal or should it shut off automatically? Air doesn't flow until I squeeze the trigger but I have to shut the power off to reset the air to stop.

 

[pattenp]

I have same plasma cutter and use it on a 30 amp circuit. The airflow cuts off when I release the trigger.

 

[myredracer]

I have same plasma cutter and use it on a 30 amp circuit. The airflow cuts off when I release the trigger.

Thanks.

I thought the air flow should shut off. Will have to dig into the circuitry and components and see if it's something simple to fix. The manual has a wiring diagram but doesn't explain much. Parts are NLA AFAIK so hope it's something minor. Maybe it's just a relay? If I can't fix it, I could live with it for the price I paid and the amount of use it will get.

 

[404]

Air post flow helps cool the torch head. 30 seconds post flow would be okay.

 

[myredracer]

Air post flow helps cool the torch head. 30 seconds post flow would be okay.

That does make sense! Will check that tomorrow. Thanks.

 

[sberry]

That machine will run from 12 wire. The cord on it is better than it needs.

 

[maxpower_hd]

I have a different brand but it is also run on a 30A circuit. And the air flow will run for a bit after you set it down for cooling. Mine is brand new and it is indeed for cooling. M guess is it is working as it should.

 

[Fastfish]

I just went through a ***** of a time getting consumables for my flea market plasma cutter. Some one mis matched the parts..... Try Centurytool. Very helpful folks. PS my air flow stays on for about 20 seconds after use. It is supposed to - for cooling.

 

[maxpower_hd]

I don't know about HF. But I got the Hypertherm because of the availability of consumables. They are on the shelf at the local Airgas and other gas supply stores.