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Wanting a plasma table

imagineer

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Joined
Dec 13, 2015
Messages
999
Location
Ohio
Folks with plasma tables, help me make a final decision.

I’m on the cusp of ordering a plasma table from Langmuir. I’m looking at the base Crossfire system with the base Razorweld 45. I’ll definitely add the XL extension kit and water tray but am unsure about the need for the “Z” axis kit and limit switch options. Most of the cutting I’ll do will be ¼” or under. I’m also a hoarder of scrap materials, so I expect I’ll rarely be cutting from full-size, unused material (i.e., I’ll be trying to nest my parts in what material is left).

Being an old school AutoCAD guy, I can CAD out anything and have wanted one of these for more than a decade. I'm finally motivated to make it happen. FWIW, this system will be for hobby use, not commercial production.

Why my choices? I don’t have the shop floor space to upgrade for the Crossfire PRO. I don’t already have a plasma cutter, so ordering one with a regular torch handle (versus the machine torch) whereas not optimal for table use, affords me the option to use it as a handheld.
 
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dr_clyde

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Jan 7, 2009
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Holland, MI
In my experience, the Z axis stuff is quite nice for materials that aren't super flat. The torch to work distance is pretty critical, and having the torch be able to compensate for that is very nice.

As far as limit switches, I don't understand why you WOULDN'T want limit switches on any sort of CNC machine. Seems well worth the small amount of money to me.
 

GeoBruin

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May 5, 2018
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3,732
It sounds like you're one the right track. I just purchased an arcdroid, mostly because I'm space constrained. Otherwise I would likely have purchased the langmuir. The dedicated table would be nice but as it is, I've had to "hide" my table in a U.S General 5 drawer cart which, in turn nests under my fab table when not in use.

The Arcdroid has THC (Z axis) capability built in as a function of the design, so I suppose I will figure out how useful that is. I already had a plasma cutter but I wanted the ability to quickly change back and forth between handheld and cnc, and I'm going to have an easier time with cable management with the torch cable sticking straight up, so I got a dedicated machine torch.

Anyhow, I'm still getting my setup figured out, but I'm looking forward to seeing how your setup goes.
 

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imagineer

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Joined
Dec 13, 2015
Messages
999
Location
Ohio
It sounds like you're one the right track. I just purchased an arcdroid, mostly because I'm space constrained. Otherwise I would likely have purchased the langmuir. The dedicated table would be nice but as it is, I've had to "hide" my table in a U.S General 5 drawer cart which, in turn nests under my fab table when not in use.

The Arcdroid has THC (Z axis) capability built in as a function of the design, so I suppose I will figure out how useful that is. I already had a plasma cutter but I wanted the ability to quickly change back and forth between handheld and cnc, and I'm going to have an easier time with cable management with the torch cable sticking straight up, so I got a dedicated machine torch.

Anyhow, I'm still getting my setup figured out, but I'm looking forward to seeing how your setup goes.
GeoBruin, great job using the roll cart. Very creative solution!
 
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Nortonscustom

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Jun 5, 2008
Messages
375
I've had my Crossfire Pro for a couple years now and have cut thousands of parts on it. It's been rock solid for the most part. Friend of mine has the Crossfire and has had the same results. I understand why and the use of limit switches would be handy on a cnc table but mine have been a huge pain in the *** and I no longer mess with them. Save your money. I would definitely get the Z axis height especially if you don't have a water table. Even with the cooling action of the water splashing around I've had plates buckle and bow while cutting like crazy. The adjust Z is nice while doing your setup before a cut too. Overall been very happy with the Crossfire and would buy it again no question.
 

GeoBruin

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Joined
May 5, 2018
Messages
3,732
GeoBruin, great job using the roll cart. Very creative solution!
Thanks!

FYI, this is about the 3rd related thread that has popped up in as many days, so I just created a Home/Hobby CNC Plasma Thread over on the Fabrication and Techniques board. Here's a link.


Feel free to keep this thread going for specific input on your questions but consider contributing to the other thread if/when you make a decision or have follow up input/questions.
 
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