Plasma cutter?

[johno]

How difficult is it to learn to use one of the small, home garage type units?

Compared to learning mig welding say?

 

[Buckgnarly]

How difficult is it to learn to use one of the small, home garage type units?

Compared to learning mig welding say?

Very easy, easier than MIG no doubt!

 

[Murphy4570]

Easy as pie. Plug it in, hook up shop air, grab some steel, start cutting. Adjust air pressure if needed. I'd recommend you cut with at least a #5 shade lens, so you can see what you are doing. I have used a #10 shade welding helmet before in a pinch, as well.

The hard part is finding a good name brand one for sale cheap! Used models command very high prices, if you can find one!!!

Get a 220V one if you can, the little 110V ones are handy, but run out of steam fast on thicker metal.

 

[Jason280]

As mentioned, they are extremely easy to use and certainly easier (for the beginner) than learning MIG welding. Just make sure you have plenty of dry air, and it will be a breeze. Still not quite as portable as a oxy set up, but definitely easier to use.

 

[///meric]

I use a Powermax 45 on an almost daily basis, I cant imagine not having a plasma. Not only is it one of the fastest ways to cut steel and al, but it is also a very percise way to cut sheet metal and plate. Also go and get a drag torch for whatever machine you are looking it, this way you can drag the torch on the material and along a straight edge or template

 

[chevroletfreak]

I picked up a Hobart 250ci from CL. I had never used plasma, but I was cuttin' it up instantly. There is no learning curve when everything is in one like mine.

Like someone else said, my 110v model is SUPER convenient especially with the compressor built in. It will fizzle out on bigger stuff, but works in a pinch. I do mostly automotive though so it hasnt bothered me yet.