I have only ever used a Hypertherm, Thermal Dynamics, and Miller. I would like something that I can use up to 1/4 with no problem but might need it for some 1/2''. If I had to to go real slow for the 1/2'' that would be ok because I don't use much 1/2''. I probably prefer Hypertherm or Thermal Dynamics. Which models should I be looking into? If I went bigger will it still cut the smaller stuff like 1/8 or even 1/4 stuff?
Plasma cutters Hypertherm, Thermal Dynamics (Victor), Miller, Hobart, and so on
- Thread starter skipnay
- Start date
coljar
Well-known member
I have a Thermal Dynamics that I bought new back around 1998 and has worked perfect without any problems. I asked around and done a lot of research before I bought it.
GLTHFJ60
Well-known member
I have had a miller spectrum 375 extreme for a two years and love it. I've cut up to 1/2 with it and although it's slow at 1/2", it works just fine. Two years ago I bought it new from cyberweld with a set of shaded glasses for cutting for $1300 total.
I've also cut plenty of thinner sheet metal with it without issue. Thin material is fun because it cuts so fast
I've also cut plenty of thinner sheet metal with it without issue. Thin material is fun because it cuts so fast
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Crusarius
Well-known member
I have a miller 375X. love it works great rated to cut 3/8 I have cut rear brake rotors from cars which are about 1/2" thick. I want to upgrade to a hypertherm but for now I do not need to spend the money.
The lower power plasma cutters may still cut thicker materials but keep in mind the kerf gets much worse. when I cut 1/4" material I angle the torch to keep the part I want straight and the other side has quite an angle on it.
most any plasma cutter will work as long as you provide clean dry air. That is critical CLEAN! DRY! air.
The lower power plasma cutters may still cut thicker materials but keep in mind the kerf gets much worse. when I cut 1/4" material I angle the torch to keep the part I want straight and the other side has quite an angle on it.
most any plasma cutter will work as long as you provide clean dry air. That is critical CLEAN! DRY! air.
coljar
Well-known member
I might add, don't get one with a built in air compressor. I don't know if they are still sold or what the brand was, but a friend of mine bought one and it didn't have enough *** to keep the slag blown out. He returned it.
BD1
Well-known member
HYPERTHERM is the only one to buy. MADE IN USA by a EMPLOYEE owned company.
I attended FABTECH show in Vegas a couple of weeks ago. Almost EVERY plasma table was running off of a HYPERTHERM. END OF STORY . These were everything from a hobbyist to $250,000.00 machines.
If you want more info checkout WELDINGWEB.
http://weldingweb.com/
Here's my local supplier online site for prices.
http://www.weldersupply.com/C/6/PlasmaCuttingMachines
I attended FABTECH show in Vegas a couple of weeks ago. Almost EVERY plasma table was running off of a HYPERTHERM. END OF STORY . These were everything from a hobbyist to $250,000.00 machines.
If you want more info checkout WELDINGWEB.
http://weldingweb.com/
Here's my local supplier online site for prices.
http://www.weldersupply.com/C/6/PlasmaCuttingMachines
kazlx
Well-known member
You wouldn't be disappointed with a Powermax 45. Could probably get away with a 30. A bigger machine cuts thinner stuff just as easily. I use a Powermax 85 on my table and cut sheet all the time. My 85 with 45A consumables is the same as a 45 with 45A consumables at 45A. I was just cutting 1/4" plate last night at 45 ipm with 45A nozzle. That's fast moving with a hand torch.
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BigMike782
Well-known member
A Powermax 30XP will rock your world and the only thing better would be a Powermax 45XP.
Thermal Dynamics, marginal at best.
Miller, was ok when using Hyperthem torches now not so much.
Lincoln, ****, always has been always will be.
Thermal Dynamics, marginal at best.
Miller, was ok when using Hyperthem torches now not so much.
Lincoln, ****, always has been always will be.
Will S.
Well-known member
My Thermal Dynamics 42 easily cuts 3/8", so it would be a good choice for what you want to do. If I had deep pockets, and could afford anything I wanted, it would be a Hypertherm.
steel 35
Well-known member
Hands down Hypo 45xp check out the cut specs for it verses the 65. Only been released about a month; I have a 65 and it's handheld severance cut is only 1/8 Inch more 1-1/8" 45xp vs 1-1/4" 65 
More the your asking for but not overkill
More the your asking for but not overkill
Farrier
Well-known member
I'd buy whatever your local welding supply supports. I wanted Hypertherm, but bought Cutmaster 52 because that's what they have. Nothing worse than needing consumables when consumables aren't immediately available. Now I didn't buy my 52 from them, but they have parts.
GLTHFJ60
Well-known member
They hypertherm powermax 30 and miller spectrum 375x have very similar reviews and very similar cutting capabilities. Before buying my miller I had used only Hypertherms. It came down to price for me, there was a sale and I got the Miller for a couple hundred less than what I could get the powermax 30 for at the time.
Well, that and my Hobart welder is essentially a miller and I guess I'm a blue machine type of garage
Well, that and my Hobart welder is essentially a miller and I guess I'm a blue machine type of garage
pennsylvaniaboy
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 28, 2014
- Messages
- 417
thermal dynamics has never let me down, we have a blue one...now they are green?! But lots of guys i know run hypertherm with good luck.
Duker
Well-known member
^^^ +1. another fan of the Hypertherm 65.... Probably more machine than I will ever use but it wasn't that much more than the 45 when I bought it. Their customer support is awesome.
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The hypertherm power max 30xp is pretty impressive and has a great price. You wont notice the difference between a 30 or 45 or 65 below 3/8" cut. The smaller gun and leads make it really nice for dexterity. The Miller equivalents work just as well. I got my 30 for $1,000 2 months ago to replace my Miller spectrum 2050 that has been giving be fits.
ovrrdrive
Well-known member
In my opinion there are two types of plasma cutters. Cheap and good.
If you're under $600-700 good brands are Eastwood, the one from HF, Esab and Everlast. I'm sure I missed a few that are also fine but I don't spend a whole lot of time looking these over.
If you're looking to go north of $1000 there is really only one brand you should looking at. Hypertherm. There are others that make decent machines, but once again in my opinion the only one I'd spend my money on would be HT. Find the model that fits your budget the closest and buy it. I've only seen one show up used on CL in my area in 2 years and it was 85% of full retail as used.
If you're just wanting one to play with and work on jobs around the house one of the cheaper brands should serve you just fine. If you're wanting a quality unit or want to make money with one, Hypertherm.
I have a PM65 and it's an amazing machine. I'm absolutely thrilled every time I throw the switch.
If you're under $600-700 good brands are Eastwood, the one from HF, Esab and Everlast. I'm sure I missed a few that are also fine but I don't spend a whole lot of time looking these over.
If you're looking to go north of $1000 there is really only one brand you should looking at. Hypertherm. There are others that make decent machines, but once again in my opinion the only one I'd spend my money on would be HT. Find the model that fits your budget the closest and buy it. I've only seen one show up used on CL in my area in 2 years and it was 85% of full retail as used.
If you're just wanting one to play with and work on jobs around the house one of the cheaper brands should serve you just fine. If you're wanting a quality unit or want to make money with one, Hypertherm.
I have a PM65 and it's an amazing machine. I'm absolutely thrilled every time I throw the switch.
stuk4x4
Active member
I have owned two millers, the spectrum 650 and the 650 extreme, both were great machines, a shop I worked at ran a Thermal Dynamics and it was ok, I thought it was kinda finicky but I only used it a half dozen times or so. When I got my Plasma Table I sold the 650 extreme and purchased a Hypertherm 65 with a machine torch. I have to say that the Hypertherm is the best machine I have used hands down and would not think twice about buying another one. If I were in your position and purchasing a new one, I think I would buy the Hypertherm 45. I think it will cover all the things you are trying to do and not over task the machine.
Good Luck
Walt
Good Luck
Walt
ovrrdrive
Well-known member
Same kit I bought. It's an amazing deal. You almost get the hand torch for free.
Now if I could just find a use for that damned pendant. lol
E-Bay....
HotRod68Camaro
Well-known member
anyone know the difference between the hypertherm 45 and the 45XP?
steel 35
Well-known member
Hands down Hypo 45xp check out the cut specs for it verses the 65. Only been released about a month; I have a 65 and it's handheld severance cut is only 1/8 Inch more 1-1/8" 45xp vs 1-1/4" 65
More the your asking for but not overkill
Big difference, I would almost trade down for the new 45XP
Not just the 45 though.I don't know. I would assume the XP is better!!!
I think but not certain) the xp has a couple features the other does not. One that comes to mine is a delay to keep it cutting longer when not grounded. Comes in handy for cutting expanded metal....
I have a hypertherm, love it! I bought it because thats all they do is make plasma cutters, nothing else.
I have a hypertherm, love it! I bought it because thats all they do is make plasma cutters, nothing else.