The best plasma cutting machine-Chicago Tribune

2021-11-12 08:12:40 By : Ms. Chengda Alice

Plasma cutting machines look similar to arc welding machines, but the job here is not to join metals, but to cut them quickly and accurately. We are always working on the technical side, so we can help you decide which way is right for your store. In addition to our buyer's guide, we also picked some favorites. Number one is the Lotos 50-Amp model, which comes from one of the most well-known brands in the industry and provides professional-grade performance and reliability.

Precautions when choosing a plasma cutting machine

Although other factors are important, the maximum cutting thickness is usually the title number. However, you need to be careful when viewing this content. You should get two numbers, one is "clean and neat" and the other is "severance pay." The first one is self-explanatory—and most people will look for it. The second is the thickness the machine will cut when pushed to the limit. However, the completion will be rough.

There is another aspect to this, which depends on the voltage. Most plasma cutting machines can accommodate 110V or 220V power-but they may only achieve maximum cutting at higher voltage settings. This is something worth checking, especially if you are looking at a budget machine.

In addition to the plasma cutting machine, you also need a gas or air supply. Traditionally, specialty stores use argon, nitrogen or oxygen (the latter is potentially dangerous). Modern machines tend to use compressed air. If you already have a compressor to be used with a plasma cutting machine, you need to check PSI (pressure in pounds per square inch) and CFM (flow rate in cubic feet per minute).

Plasma cutting machines generate a lot of heat, so they need regular rest to cool down. This is called the duty cycle and is given as a percentage. Information should be provided for each model, but the specified amplifier may not be the maximum. For example, a 50A machine may be able to cut thin plates as low as 10A. Therefore, a typical duty cycle may read 30% at 35A, which means that for every three minutes of work at 35A, it needs to rest for seven minutes. Operating at 20A, the duty cycle will be longer, and fully operating at 50A, the duty cycle will be smaller. Even on the most powerful plasma cutting machines, the duty cycle rarely exceeds 60%.

The nozzle can be contact or non-contact. The advantage of the latter is that it does not need to be in contact with the material. If the surface is uneven, damaged or has peeling paint, the plasma cutter works as if it were on clean, flat, bare metal.

The drag technique allows you to keep the nozzle in contact with the material, otherwise a double arc may occur (the torch may be welded to the metal). This makes it easy to cut complex shapes according to pre-drawn lines-a popular choice for decorating metal workers.

The initial supply of electrodes and nozzles will not last long, which is an ongoing cost, so be sure to research the prices of these items for the equipment you are considering in advance. Aftermarket supply can save money, but don't be tempted by very cheap products that affect performance.

Although you can buy a cheap plasma cutting machine for less, we recommend that you buy a reliable 40A or 50A machine for $250 to $300. There are many options in the range of US$400 to US$600, and most people should find the kind of budget they need. High-power plasma cutting machines-80A and above-will cost you 1,000 to 3,000 US dollars.

Q: Can I not cut with my welding equipment?

A. If you just want to cut thin slices, you can, but you have very little control, and the quality of the finished product will be poor. However, if you are doing a lot of operations at the same time, you can use a plasma cutter/welder combination machine.

Q: What is welder flash?

Answer: If you don't wear a welder's mask, you will have eye pain. Ultraviolet rays can damage the cornea, causing severe irritation that lasts for several days. Kind of like sunburning your eyeballs! So always, always put on a mask before cutting.

The best: Lotos' LTP5000D plasma cutting machine

Our view: Powerful 50A tools provide excellent control on all surfaces.

What we like: The non-contact pilot arc is perfect for uneven, painted or rusty metals. 110/220 volts can be switched. 3/4" cut. Quick and easy setup.

What we don’t like: not much. Some owners break down near the new equipment, but the warranty should include replacement.

Great value for money: Sungold Power's Cut50 plasma cutting machine

Our view: a super value 50A machine suitable for light commercial and household use.

What we like: It can run at 220V or 110V. IGBT inverter technology provides a stable arc. Easy to use. Severance pay of 3/4 inch.

What we don't like is: trying to reach the advertised maximum of 110V power supply.

Option 3: Amico's Cut-40 plasma cutting machine

Our view: reliable entry-level machines from well-known manufacturers.

What we like: powerful enough to cut up to 3/4" cuts. Regardless of where you plug in, you can automatically adjust the voltage. Surprisingly comfortable gun.

What we don't like: No, but there are 50A machines for the same money.

Bob Beacham is a contributor to BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company whose mission is to help simplify your buying decisions and save you time and money. BestReviews never accepts free products from manufacturers and uses its own funds to purchase every product it reviews.

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