Plasma Cutters

[myslow2002gt]

I just recently purchased a new Hobart Handler 187 Mig, to go with my Miller tig welder, and now I'm wanting to complete it by purchasing a plasma cutter.

I've done some research, and have narrowed it down to either the Miller Spectrum 375-Extreme or Powermax 30. Unfortunately, I don't know anyone with experience using either of these units? I've always been pleased with Miller products, so I'm leaning towards the spectrum. I appreciate any help/direction you guys can lend me.

 

[35mastr]

I have the 375 and I like it.

 

[river1]

i've got the miller 300, the littler,older brother to the 375. i have had ZERO problems with it. buy the 375 you won't be disappointed.

later jim

 

[hawgputter]

Check out Hypertherm = http://www.hypertherm.com/
I bought the Hypertherm Powermax 600 Plasma Cutter about four years ago & love it
Its easy on consumables and will cut up to 1/2 easy enough.

 

[krooser]

I've got a Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 38 and it's been trouble free for four years.

I bought it used off of FleaBay for $600.00. Don't be afraid to buy a good used machine... your local welding supply house may have some good deals.

http://www.welders-direct.com/merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=WD&Product_Code=1-3830

 

[JohnK007]

I also have a Thermal Dynamics. No problems with it. (Knock on wood)

 

[t100]

In general, Miller and Lincoln are good at welders and Thermal Dynamics and Hyperthem are solid on the plasma. lots people use Miller because if something goes wrong, you can get pretty much all the parts within in 24 hours. time is money, and machine down time costs big money.

FYI, for a plasma cutter, a quailty air source is more important than thing. you must have enough volume, clean free of contaminants and dry. without all 3 of them, you ain't cut shat even with the best cutter in the world.

 

[hawgputter]

You got that right T100.
Got a big two stage Rolair feeding mine lots of filtered air.
I also change the TP filter at the back of the plasma often.

 

[mjb]

I have the 375 x-treme and it works great for me. I only use the 220v at home, but the ability to switch to 110v has allowed me to do some work where 220 was not available. I have a small nitrogen cylinder for those jobs.

Good luck!