Plasma cutters need air pressure to cut in a two-stage process. First, the arc heats the metal until it's semi-gaseous. Second, the plasma is forced by blasts of air to finish the cut. Therefore, all plasma cutters need an air compressor to generate enough air pressure for the task.
Yet, how big of an air compressor do I need to run a plasma cutter?
Ideally, you'll want to buy a compressor whose CFM rating is higher than your plasma cutter or one that is rated about 1.5 to 2 times the CFM of your cutter to ensure that your machine doesn't stop temporarily when the air compressor takes time to refill.
One may also ask, what's the best plasma cutter for the money? The 8 Best Plasma Cutters:
Hypertherm Powermax30 Plasma Cutter – Best Overall. ... Hobart Airforce 40i 240V Plasma Cutter. ... Lotos LTP5000D Plasma Cutter – Best Value. ... Miller Spectrum 625 X-treme Plasma Cutter. ... Forney Easy Weld 251 Plasma Cutter. ... PRIMEWELD CUT50 Portable Plasma Cutter. ... SUNGOLDPOWER 50A Plasma Cutter.
Above, are cheap plasma cutters any good?
Zeny Cut 50 DC Inverter Plasma Cutter. The Zeny plasma cutter is a great option if you're a DIY hobbyist and on a budget. If your task requires cutting different sized metal sheets, you'll find it quite reliable. It cuts well, it's easy to use, well made and overall good value for money.
Can I weld with a plasma cutter?
With the right torch design, a nitrogen-water injection, less expensive than other gases, can work well when plasma cutting aluminum and stainless material for subsequent welding. The process involves an electrode surrounded by nitrogen, which is heated by an electric arc to form the plasma.
HZXVOGEN 40 Amp Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor 220V Digital Inverter IGBT Clean Cut Cutting Machine (Model: HBC6000Pro)
- READY TO CUT PLASMA CUTTER - HZXVOGEN HBC6000Pro plasma cutter equipped with built-in air compressor, do not need to install air compressor regulator. You literally just need your plasma cutter and a power source to start cutting. This makes doing jobs out in the field incredibly easy
- PERFECT CLEAN FINISH, SAVE TIME AND MATERIAL - Severance cut thickness* ≤ 1/2"(12mm), ideal cut thickness ≤ 2/5"(10mm). It is hard to find a plasma cutter have gas delay function, but our HBC6000Pro plasma cutter does. With this function, it will bring even cuts, little deformation and little slag. Do not need to grind too much after cutting
- TWO EXTERNAL AIR FILTERS, LONGER SERVICES TIIME - The two air filters of HBC6000Pro plasma cutter are to make the compressor air clean, keep dust outside the machine, and reduce noise. Most of the plasma cutter equipped air filter inside the machine, but ours are external, which protect electronic components being damaged by high temperature
- AIR SWITCH PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE PROETCTION - Most of plasma cutters are equipped with rocker switch which can withstand lower current and does not have leakage protection. Our plasma cutter came with high-power air switch which can withstand higher current and power off automatically when short-circuit or leakage to protect you, machine and your power system
- BUY WITH CONFIDENCE - HZXVOGEN offers good after-sales service. If the machine can not work or have other problem when working, please contact us at the first time. We have agent in the United States and our 24 x 7 friendly customer support team is always ready to help
Forney Easy Weld 251 20 P Plasma Cutter,Green
- CUTS- Mild steel, aluminum and stainless steel from thin material to 1/4"* (6.35 millimeters) with ease! *(Mild Steel)
- EASY TO USE- All you need is 120 volt power source and 1.5 CFM of compressed air. Built in regulator and air dryer make operation a breeze
- DRAG TORCH TECHNOLOGY- Allows you to drag cutting tip in direct contact with the metal you're cutting for smooth consistent clean cuts
- LIGHT AND PORTABLE- Forney's 120-volt 20 P Plasma Cutter is generator friendly so on the go cutting and moving to different job sites is possible
- RUGGED- All metal case. Built to take the day to day
- MACHINE INCLUDES- Includes a 13' cutting torch, 8' ground clamp, 20A-15A adapter, 1 additional electrode and 1 additional nozzle. Backed by a 12-month warranty
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS- Dimensions: 15.125" (384.18 millimeters) x 8.125" (206.38 millimeters) x 12" (304.8 millimeters) Weight: 21.5 lbs. (9.75 kilograms) Air compressor capable of 1.5 CFM is required (not included)
- Click on the (BY FORNEY) name above in blue under the title to view our full catalog of Welders, Abrasives, Chain/Wire Rope, Tools and more!
Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter - Tosense CUT50P 50A Dual Voltage 110V/220V Non-Touch Digital Air Inverter Portable Welding Equipment 1/2'' Clean Cut
- 【PILOT ARC】Pilot arc plasma cutter torch efficiently cuts though rough, painted, and rusty surfaces and produces minimal slag;Pilot arc technology allows you to cut without touching the tip to the metal. Better cutting quality and longer consumable life.(The plasma cutter replacement accessories consumables,you need buy:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CV4JRSZ?ref=myi_title_dp )
- 【OUTSTANDING CUTTING PERFORMANC】The DC inverter cutting machine suitable for cut stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum. Designed for both demanding industrial and construction work, or home and hobby use.
- 【IGBT INVERTER PLASMA CUTTER】IGBT transistor produces a uniform output to enable cutting of thin metal and can reach high power output for cutting thick metal. Our plasma cutter CUT50P is IGBT technogy, not MOSFET. IGBT machine is far superior and more stable than the MOSFET machine.
- 【18MM CUTTING THICKNESS】Ideal Cut Thickness: 1/2" (18mm), Automatic Dual Voltage / Dual Frequency (110V/220V 50/60Hz) . Voltage compensation to tackle with +/-15% electricity fluctuation.
- 【SAFETY IN OPERATION】With protection of electric circuit against over current, over voltage and low-voltage. Using air pressure adjusting equipment. Able to operate when the external air pressure is too high.The cutting current is continuously adjustable, direct and precise.
SUNCOO 50 Amp Plasma Cutter 110/220V, Portable Pro. Cut 50 Electric DC Inverter Metal Plasma Cutting Machine Dual Voltage with Digital Display, 1/2 Inch Clean Cut
- 【50 AMP PLASMA CUTTER】50 Amp DC output, 1/2 inch(12mm) ideal clean-cut under 220V, simple operation, and smooth cutting surface. Suitable for cutting carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, iron and aluminum metal, etc.
- 【CONTROL PANEL】LCD digital display. Front panel easy read pressure gauge connected with the air nozzle of the rear panel, easy to control.Power pilot lamp & protection pilot lamp for easy operation.High cutting speed, cutting smoothly, and no polish demands.
- 【SAFE DESIGN】Built-in over-heat protection, over-voltage protection, under-voltage protection, and lack of compressed air pressure protection. Comes with a mask, which can prevent you from hurting while using. In addition, the strong ability of heat dissipation helps to reduce the temperature of its components and increase of service life.
- 【EXQUISITE WORKMANSHIP】Its solid material construction makes it reliable and gives it strength that to be used for a long time. The solid black edges protect the panels and keep the machine stylish. ☀13' torch cable, 8.2' Ground Cable With Clamp.
- 【PACKAGE INCLUDES】SUNCOO CUT 50 x 1, Cutting Torch x 1, Air Regulator x 1, Ground Clamp x 1, Electrode, Nozzle x 1, Gas Pipe Claspers x 2, Brush x 1, Welding Mask x 1, Manual x 1.The cutting machine not only uses in businesses and DIY users but also fully accommodating the demands of professional operators.
Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor 120V
- Built in Air Compressor
- Cuts faster than oxy fuel
- Smaller heat-affected zone for less warping
- No gas pressure settings for flame tuning needed
- More precise cut, thinner kerf, less slag to clean up
Forney 317 250 P+ Plasma Cutter with Air Compressor,Green
- Uses electrical arc and compressed air to cut steel, aluminum and other conductive metals
- Drag torch technology allows you to move torch directly across the metal surface for precise cuts
- Easy to use and operate
- Comes with a built-in air compressor and lightweight inverter power supply
- Thermal overload protection
- Click on the (BY FORNEY) name above in blue under the title to view our full catalog of Welders, Abrasives, Chain/Wire Rope, Tools and more!
Plasma Cutter, 50A Inverter AC-DC IGBT Dual Voltage (110/220V/120V/240V) Cut50 Portable Cutting Welding Machine With Intelligent Digital Display With Free Accessories Easy Cutter Welder
- ★Portablet plasma cutter has a handle for portability and uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and torch efficiently cuts though rough, painted, and rusty surfaces and produces minimal slag; Better cutting quality and longer consumable life.
- ★50 Amp 85% Digital Inverter Air Plasma Cutter,Smart wide voltage 90~260V, 50/60Hz(With Converter Power Cord) 10-50 A DC output, 1/2” ideal clean cut and 3/4” maximum severance cut under 220/240V. 10-35A DC output, 1/3" ideal clean cut and 2/5" maximum severance cut under 110/120V. SUITABLE CUTTING for Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Mild Steel, Copper, Aluminum, etc. Uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut, safe and at low cost.
- ★PACKAGE INCLUDES: 1pcs xPower supply(1.8M),1pcs x Converter Power Cord(0.53M),1pcsx(4M) Plasma cutting torch, 1pcs xground clamp(2.5M), and Air filter regulator, consumables, Instruction Manual, etc. ( 4pcs x stainless steel 1pcs x Gas tube 4pcs x Hoop 3pcs x Plasma Tips Nozzle Extended 3pcs x Electrode- Extended 4pcs x Shroud Ceramic Cup 2pcs x Gas Ring)
- ★Automatic Dual Voltage / Dual Frequency (110/120 V 220/240 V 50/60Hz).Long term supply of consumables on S7 shop.
- ★ BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: We offer 30 days refund and 3-years warranty, please submit registration form on our website.Soudeur soldador.
EPICWELD AC3500 35 Amp Plasma Cutter with Built-in Air Compressor
- ✔PORTABLE and POWERFUL--the EPICWELD AC3500 can easily cut up to 1/2” thick steel with ultimate portability weighing only 19lbs; The AC3500 is an excellent choice for home DIY jobs and light duty small business projects.
- ✔INPUT & OUTPUT--190V-260V, 50/60Hz input; Automatic dual frequency (50/60Hz); 12-35 A DC output, 3/8” ideal clean cut and 1/2” maximum severance cut.
- ✔SUITABLE CUTTING--for Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Mild Steel, Copper, etc. Uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut, safe and low cost.
- ✔PACKAGE INCLUDES--35A Plasma Cutter Torch [complete], 1 plasma electrode installed on torch, 1 plasma nozzle installed on torch, 1 plasma ceramic shield cup installed on torch, 12.5 foot extra long torch cable, 6.5 foot ground cable & ground clamp, Air regulator built into front control panel, Air hose and 2 hose clamps.
- ✔SATISFACTION GUARANTEED--Buy with confidence. We provide a full THREE year parts and labor warranty.
Mophorn 85 Amp Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor, Portable Plasma Welder 380V, Plasma Cutting Machine IGBT Inverter, Digital Plasma Welding Machine(85 Amp with Air Compressor)
- 【CUTTING & WELDING】- Severance cut thickness* ≤ 1.37"(35mm), ideal cut thickness ≤ 1"(25mm); 4.0 electrode continuous welding ensures deep weld pool and beautiful welding shape.
- 【NON-TOUCH PILOT ARC TORCH】- It allows you to cut without touching the tip to the metal, and cuts though rough, painted, and rusty surfaces and produces minimal slag.
- 【ADVANCED COOLING SYSTEM】- Built-in over-heat protection, over-voltage protection, under voltage protection. Ensure the plasma cutter have a stable and durable high performance.
- 【READY TO CUT】- Equipped with carrying handle and 4 wheels, and built-in air compressor, the machine makes it ready to cut out of the box. Much more easy and convenient to use in daily work.
- 【WIDE APPLICATION】- Suitable for most metals such as stainless steel, alloy, aluminum, mild steel, carbon steel etc. Can be widely used at automotive, kmetal processing, manufacture, site work etc.
Lotos LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 110V/220V, 1/2 Inch Clean Cut, Brown
- ★ NON-TOUCH PILOT ARC PLASMA CUTTER: efficiently cuts though rough, painted, and rusty surfaces and produces minimal slag. Pilot arc technology allows you to cut without touching the tip to the metal. Better cutting quality and longer consumable life.
- ★ SAFE AND AT LOW COST: compact plasma cutter has a handle for portability and uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum.
- ★ THE COMPATIBLE CONSUMABLES SETS for this BROWN Color LTP5000D Plasma Cutter are "PCS22" or "PCS33". Please search "Lotos PCS22" or "Lotos PCS33"; ★ NOT compatible with Lotos PCON40 or PCON90 Consumables Sets or any other third part consumables set
- ★ OUTPUT & PERFORMANCE: 10-50 A DC output, 1/2” ideal clean cut and 3/4” maximum severance cut under 220/240V. 10-35A DC output, 1/3" ideal clean cut and 2/5" maximum severance cut under 110/120V. SUITABLE CUTTING for Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Mild Steel, Copper, Aluminum, etc. Uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut, safe and at low cost.
- ★ SETUP WITHIN 1 MIN: The pre-installed NPT 1/4” industry type D plug and air filter regulator allows you to quick connect to your air compressor by using the stand coupler existing on your air compressor. The whole machine can be setup quickly within 1 min.
- ★ PAPST ADVANCED COOLING SYSTEM: ensure the plasma cutter have a stable and durable high performance. Rated Output (Volts): 100
- ★ DUAL VOLTAGE INPUT: Automatic Dual Voltage / Dual Frequency (110/120 V 220/240 V 50/60Hz).
- ★ PACKAGE INCLUDES: Power supply, Plasma cutting torch, ground clamp, Pre-installed NPT 1/4” industry type D plug and Air filter regulator, consumables, Instruction Manual, etc.
- ★ BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: We offer 30 days refund and 1-year , please submit registration form on our website.
- 50 Amp Digital Inverter Air Plasma Cutter
- Automatic Dual Voltage / Dual Frequency (110/220V 50/60Hz)
- PAPST Advanced German Cooling System
- Max Severance Thickness: 3/4"
- Max Cut Thickness: 1/2"
9 More Questions Answered
Compressed Air is the most commonly used gas for lower current plasma cutting and works well for most metals from gauge thickness to 1 inch. ... Compressed air can also be used for plasma gouging on carbon steel. Nitrogen is often used for higher current plasma systems and for cutting materials up to 3 inches thick.
It's important to know if the compressor you purchase will drive the air tool you'll need for your project. For example, smaller air nailers run on 2 to 5 CFM at 70 to 90 PSI, while larger shears, air sanders require up to 10 or more CFM and 100 to 120 PSI.
Of all the plasma cutters in the industry, only the Spectrum 375 CutMate™, Spectrum 2050 and Spectrum 3080 plasma cutters consistently cut steel at or greater than 3/8 in. when using generator power. ... When connected to a generator with at least 8 kW of power, such as the Bobcat 225 NT, it cuts steel up to 5/8 in.
There's no soot, very little mill scale,” he says. “You can cut pipe through the coating with no problem whatsoever, and it doesn't disturb the coating or mechanical properties of the pipe.” ... Plasma arc cutting offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative to oxy-acetylene cutting and carbon arc gouging.
Best Budget Plasma Cutters Under $500 – Reviews & Guide- Lotos LTP5000D Plasma Cutter.
- Primeweld CT520D Multiprocess Plasma Cutting Machine.
- SUPER DEAL DC Inverter (CUT 50) Plasma Cutter.
- Forney Easy Weld 20 P Plasma Cutting Machine.
- Primeweld CUT50DP Plasma Cutting Machine.
The better plasma systems (major manufacturers, typically higher priced) do a much better job of controlling the shape of the arc and also controlling the heat in the torch and consumables... resulting in very nice cut quality at very high speeds, and with a very low operating cost (long consumable parts life).
Top 10 Things to Consider when Choosing a Plasma Cutter- Air compressor. Plasma cutters need compressed air to create the plasma, this can either be provided by a built in air compressor or an external compressed air supply. ...
- Reliability. ...
- Pilot Arc. ...
- Voltage. ...
- Cut Rating. ...
- Duty Cycle. ...
- Weight. ...
- Cut Quality.
The Harbor Freight plasma cutter must be your best choice if you are seeking a good quality plasma cutter for short metalwork. It allows you a clean-cut except for slang and dross. And it is simple to start. It also provides you with digital display and air–striking process.
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