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Home » Plasma Cutters » The 6 Summit Rated Plasma Cutters Yous Tin can Buy – 2022 Reviews & Comparisons

The six Top Rated Plasma Cutters Yous Tin Buy – 2022 Reviews & Comparisons

Last Updated on May 2022

Are you looking to brand clean, quick, and smooth metal cuts? If you have a plasma machine, you won't have to deal with loud grinding, a messy workplace, or rough and inaccurate metallic cuts. This tool is an ionized gas torch that heats upwards and melts electrically conductive textile to brand a groovy division or smooth welding.

Finding the perfect plasma cutter, however, can pose a challenge, especially if you don't take extensive noesis of how they work. You too need to know exactly what you require of a plasma cutter.

Shopping for technical metal fabrication equipment tin can be frustrating. To assist you out, we decided to scrutinize hundreds of reviews and specifications to help y'all make an informed decision.

• Our Top Pick: Hypertherm Powermax45 XP
• Miller Electric Spectrum 625 X-Treme
• Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci
• Hobart 500565 Airforce 27i
• Lotos LTP5000D
• Hypertherm Powermax 65

Pros and Cons of Owning a Plasma Machine

Pros

Plasma cutters can be a useful additions to a workshop. Firstly, it is 1 of the quickest ways to cutting any material that conducts electricity. This is because no preheating is necessary. When yous switch on the torch, yous can start cutting immediately.

Torches are too versatile and precise. You can perform piercings, welding repairs, or cuts at complicated angles or shapes without any problems. Cutting columns likewise provide you lot with the ultimate in accuracy.

The quality of your cuts is also much better. Say goodbye to dross and jagged edges. There is a close integration between the cutting torch and the unit software, which means that you lot can make precise cuts.

Finally, using the products is incredibly easy. Even inexperienced or novice metal fabricators volition be able to utilise them efficiently. Higher stop systems are also safe, every bit they may feature exhaust units to channel fume away from the user.

Cons

1 of the biggest cons of owning a plasma machine is the fact that they are specialized machines. If you lot don't practice a lot of material cut, you may non be sure if buying one is the correct option. If yous saw through metallic, say, once every two months, the cost and effort of choosing, buying, and setting up a machine with a unmarried function may not be worth it.

Another con is the fact that it tin be expensive equipment. If yous do a lot of metallic cutting, nevertheless, this initial cost can be spread out over the long term, specially since consumables are typically affordable and long-lasting. In fact, in the long run, they may work out to be more affordable than grinder or hacksaw blades.

When yous cut through metal, the torch tends to create a warmth-affected region, which may harden the edges of the cutting surface. The oestrus likewise forms dross when molten metal re-solidifies around the perimeter of the cut. With basic add-on equipment, even so, you volition be able to become rid of whatever dross easily.

Top Plasma Cutters: Comparisons & Reviews

Hypertherm Powermax45

Specifications

• Dimensions: 16.7 x 6.seven x xiii.7″
• Weight: 37lbs
• Input Power: 240/480V fifty/60Hz
• Output Range: twenty-45A
• Duty Cycle: 50%

If performance is what you need, expect no further than the Powermax45. This unit tin can cutting through 1/2" steel at 20 inches per minute without ever needing a cool-downwardly menstruation. This high-quality machine provides you with complete torch control while making neat and precise metal cuts.

According to reviews, buying this model is a long-term money saver, despite its high price tag. The Powermax45's saving grace is the fact that information technology is incredibly economical in terms of consumables. The consumables themselves are also much more than affordable than those of near other units.

This torch is ideal for projects across the entire spectrum of applications. It features iii primary modes: continuous pilot arc, non-continuous pilot arc, and gouging for punching holes. Whether you are a serious handyman or professional person metallic fabricator, the Powermax45 will go the job done.

Want to acquire more? Cheque out our total review here.

Pros

• Durable and high-quality unit of measurement
• Affordable running costs
• Can be used for industrial applications
• Lightweight and portable
• Controllable amperage output

Cons

• Purchase price is relatively steep

Miller 625

Specifications

• Dimensions: 13.two x 5.v x 9″
• Weight: 21lbs
• Input Power: 120/240V 60Hz
• Output Range: 20-140A
• Duty Wheel: 50%

This lightweight falls within the same price category as the Powermax45. At that place are some differences that you should have into consideration, however.

Firstly, the Miller 625 is fitted with auto re-burn, which means that you tin can cut grates and perforated materials. You lot also get a cutting thickness of 5/8″ which is a little more than the Powermax45's ½". It also weighs 21 lbs, which is 16 lbs lighter than the Powermax45.

Many users noted that one of the drawbacks of this otherwise high-cease unit is that it goes through consumables at a higher rate than the first model on our list. The cuts information technology produces, notwithstanding, are neat with almost no dross.

Pros

• High-performing and durable plasma torch
• Lightweight and portable
• 5/8" cutting width allows for heavy-duty employ
• Offers 110v besides as 120v power
• Straightforward functioning

Cons

• Non the about economical regarding consumable use
• Consumables are expensive

Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci

Specifications

• Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 13″
• Weight: 26.7lbs
• Input Power: 120V 60Hz
• Output Range:12A
• Duty Bicycle: 35%

This highly portable product is perfect for the calorie-free metal fabricator on the go. This 120v unit can cutting metal with a width of upwardly to 1/8" and features loftier-end inverter technology to maximize performance. Another big plus is the fact that the 12ci doesn't require an air compressor.

As you tin can see, the 12ci's entreatment is that you tin take it anywhere. Although it'south not as powerful as the other products listed here, information technology is perfect for precise and small jobs. People that have been using this model for some time generally hold that the 12ci provides excellent value for money.

Want to learn more? Check out our full review here.

Pros

• Lightweight and highly portable
• Like shooting fish in a barrel to fix and use
• Does non require an air compressor
• High-quality and durable metal cutter
• Allows clean cutting with minimal warping

Cons

• Uneconomical use of consumables
• Offers limited cutting width
• Non recommended for heavy-duty projects

Hobart Airforce 40i

Specifications

• Dimensions: eleven.2 x viii.2 10 14.ii″
• Weight: thirty.6lbs
• Input Power: 240V 50/60Hz
• Output Range: 40A
• Duty Bike: l%

The 40i brings a wide range of appealing features to the table. If you are in the business of cut thicker steel sheets, this is the plasma motorcar for y'all.

This unit can cut steel widths of upward to 5/8". Co-ordinate to some reviewers, if you lot are willing to spend more than time, y'all tin can increment this to effectually 7/eight". At a thickness of 5/eight", your duty bicycle is fifty%, rendering it an first-class system for the industrial steel fabricator.

Concerning project fourth dimension, you lot can expect this plasma cutter to piece of work through 14 inches per infinitesimal if the sheet is ½" thick. This unit of measurement is comparable to the Miller 625. If you don't need the auto re-fire and portability, however, the 40i may offering y'all better value for money.

Pros

• Durable, heavy-duty torch
• Capable of welding and cutting through thick metallic sheets
• Loftier duty wheel and performance
• Capable of clean and precise cut

Cons

• Tough on consumable use
• Not the nearly portable arrangement

Lotos LTP5000D

Specifications

• Dimensions: 15 x 6 ten 12″
• Weight: 26lbs
• Input Power: 110V/220V 50/60Hz
• Output Range: 10-50A
• Duty Bike: threescore%

If you are looking for a high-quality, affordable machine capable of performing clean and precise low-cal metal cuts, consider the LTP5000D. This unit from Lotos has an assortment of features, rendering it a high-value addition to the abode workshop.

This solid plasma cutter is fitted with a airplane pilot arc, allowing you to cutting dirty or rusty steel with a thickness of upwards to ½". For optimal portability, it is fitted with a comfortable handle and weighs a mere 26 lbs. You too get a dual voltage capability of 110v and 220v, which means y'all can use information technology almost anywhere.

Many novice reviewers constitute the LTP5000D piece of cake to set up up and use, so if you are a hobbyist or coincidental metal worker, this torch cutter may be ideal for you.

Pros

• Portable and durable plasma machine
• First-class value for coin
• Pilot arc increases application range
• Like shooting fish in a barrel setup and utilize

Cons

• Non suitable for heavy-duty cutting
• Ground cable may be too short

Hypertherm Powermax65

Specifications

• Dimensions: 19.vii 10 ix.two x 17.9″
• Weight: 65lbs
• Input Power: 200/480V fifty/60Hz
• Output Range: 20-65A
• Duty Cycle: 50%

If your business is looking to upgrade your existing steel cutting equipment, consider this astounding product from Hypertherm: a popular 65A plasma torch with the ability to cut through a thickness of i" and a severance ability of 1 ¼".

Since the Powermax65 has high-quality cutting abilities and immense power, information technology is perfect for industrial and heavy-duty applications. In fact, you tin can discover this model in use at NASA's Kennedy Space Centre. Of grade, many reviewers take found it to be the all-time addition to their domicile workshops besides.

This plasma system weighs 65 lbs and is non every bit portable as the other units on this listing. Since information technology offers a 25-pes range, chances are you lot will be able to employ it anywhere in your workspace without ever having to move the unit around.

Pros

• High-performance and durable plasma machine
• Easy to operate
• Fitted with a 25-human foot lead
• Suitable for heavy-duty cutting
• Comes with various torch styles

Cons

• Relatively high price
• Long lead and profile are not entirely suited for hobbyists
• Lacks portability

Plasma Cutter Buyers' Guide

How Much Power Will You Demand?

The power y'all need from your plasma cutter depends on the type and thickness of the metallic that you want to cut. A unit's power output is significant in determining its cut ability and cut quality. Power output also affects the model's duty cycle.

Run of the mill units that you lot may typically find in domicile workshops run off standard 120v, 15A outlets. High-operation or industrial torches, however, require 20A or fifty-fifty 50A and 220v to perform efficiently.

The get-go step in determining your power needs is to consider the thickness of the metals that y'all typically work with. While plasma machines can cut annihilation conductive from copper to stainless steel, there are some things to consider in purchasing. A 25A plasma torch will piece of work perfectly for annihilation up to ¼". For metals up to ½" thick, don't get below 40A, and when it comes to cutting one" sheets, buy a machine with an amperage of 60A or more than.

The next pace is to define what type of power you lot accept available in your workshop or home. To cut metals that are ½" or thicker, you may need a 220v outlet. Consult with your electrician to ensure that your power infrastructure will exist sufficient to support a plasma cutter.

Power output determines the unit's input power. Although it is important that you lot purchase a cutter with sufficient power for your needs; overspending on too much power may be unwise.

Operation vs. Price

Finding the balance between cost and value can exist a challenge. Y'all don't want to spend more than you have to. On the other hand, y'all also don't want to cease up with a product that you can't use effectively.

As a general rule, it is important to decide what you specifically need from your plasma cutter. And then, brand a list of models that see and maybe even exceed your requirements to a minor extent. This will ensure that you are never limited in terms of performance without going overboard.

Compare similar systems with each other and try to eliminate unnecessary features and accessories that add to the cost. For example, if portability is not a priority to you, don't pay more for an expensive, lightweight unit. In the same vein, hobbyists typically utilize their cutters for shorter periods of time and should opt for 35% duty cycles rather than more expensive 50% models.

It is of import to call back that initial costs should not exist the only consideration. The charge per unit at which a machine wears out consumables tin can contribute to running costs. To salvage money in the long run, it may be worth your while to pay more upward front for a system that uses consumable economically.

Plasma Cutting for Beginners

As a novice steel fabricator, your needs may differ from those of industrial entities. If you are a hobbyist, artist, or DIY enthusiast, chances are that you volition never need a high-functioning model with an amperage of 80A or more than. If y'all do, it is important to determine this beforehand.

Once more, it is critical that yous evaluate your needs and unique requirements before buying a unit. Buying something on impulse can cause you to end upwards with a cutter that is complex and difficult to use. Even if you take the means to pay a premium toll, remember that a product that is also far over the peak may exist just as difficult to apply equally a poor-quality or underperforming unit.

For a beginner, in that location are mainly two aspects to consider.

• First, cheque the machine's ability output. This volition ensure that you can cut the metallic types you want and that you lot have sufficient width cut ability.
• Besides, make sure that y'all buy a high-quality torch that is durable. Beginners oft make the fault of thinking they don't have to prioritize quality. Purchasing a plasma machine with a long lifespan volition ensure optimal value for your money and can be incredibly rewarding in the long haul.

Required Consumables and Parts

Consumables are all the parts of your unit that clothing out with time. There are mainly five consumable components that contribute to plasma cutting:

• the electrode,
• shield,
• retaining cap,
• nozzle and
• swirl ring.

The shield is a consumable that protects the other consumables from molten metal and sparks.

The retaining cap keeps the consumable stack in place, and the swirl ring directs the gas from the car through the torch.

The nozzle and electrode are the consumables that wear out the fastest. The nozzle concentrates the plasma arc and funnels the gas flow. The electrode current completes the electric current from the torch to the plate.

Every model has its own combination and types of consumables and accessories, each with their own cost. It is, therefore, important to ensure that the unit y'all are considering is compatible with consumables that are readily bachelor and affordable. If possible, choose a cutter that wears consumables out at a reasonable rate.

An air compressor is another office that you require for the cutting process. Some systems have a compressor included, merely if this is not the case, you have to add an external compressor.

Compressed air flow forms the essence of a plasma cutter's mechanism. A high-quality air compressor volition ensure that your cuts are neat and that your consumables last longer. It is but one of a number of accompanying accessories to improve y'all plasma cutter.

Unlike Plasma Cutting Uses

Before buying, it is important to know what kind of plasma cutting you will be doing.

Industrial Cutting

Plasma machines play an integral role in optimal and cost-constructive manufacturing. Mass or slice production lines have to be as constructive as possible with regard to time, effort, and cost. With conventional cut methods, this is not always possible.

Plasma torches that are mounted and capable of being programmed to cut certain patterns or lines play an integral role in lowering input costs per unit. Not only are they more precise, merely they too piece of work faster than grinders or saws. Cutting surfaces also require less preparation for mounting or installation, as plasma cutting results in less dross.

When it comes to industrial cut, there is very little room for error. Programmable torches eliminate the risk of pocket-size errors that, when spread over thousands of units, can lead to massive losses for industrial firms.

Plasma machines are typically used in industrial processes where aesthetics and precision are important. High-tech manufacturing processes often require this method of steel cutting and welding. This industrial engineering is one of the most toll-constructive ways to ensure that firms have complete control over production.

Even though installing these units may have high initial costs for the production sector, it often allows for long-term savings as usage of consumables is typically lower. Consumable prices are also lower, especially if firms buy them in bulk.

Artwork Cutting

Earlier torch cutters became readily bachelor, metal artists were severely limited in terms of making precise cuts. The methods they had at their disposal were unwieldy and ineffective. Artists too did not e'er have complete control over the outcomes of their art projects.

Since metallic torches became easily available, artists not only accept the means to mass produce metallic art, merely they besides have more means to refine their fine art. They can apply many different themes to their work, which may not have been possible with conventional tools.

Art is a subjective endeavor, and without sufficient tools, artists may experience frustration in their attempts to express themselves or to reach the levels of inventiveness they want. By making utilise of ionized gas and appropriate accessories, artists are now able to brand infinitesimal cuts and create intricate and complex designs. Ionized gas torches get a long manner to eliminate creative limits for metal artists.

As a metal artist, you lot may not need an expensive or overly powerful model. It is of import to call up, even so, that yous should buy a high-quality system. This will ensure that you go many years of service from your cutter, also equally perfect metal cuts and precise welding.

Automotive Cut

If you ain a garage or if yous are an automotive professional or hobbyist, you need a plasma organisation for automotive cutting. Metal cutting is unavoidable during vehicle restoration, repair, or customization.

Cutting applications typically pertain to removing torso parts or components, manufacturing new parts, cutting off basics and bolts, and preparing surfaces for welding. If you are in the automotive business organisation, portability is your best friend. Make sure that you purchase a unit that has a low weight and piece of cake carrying features like a handle.

When working with automotive metal, you may often encounter rusty or painted surfaces. Units with a pilot arc will ensure that y'all don't run into bug when cutting pieces like this. Likewise, the torch should be small and mobile so you tin can get into pocket-sized nooks and crannies.

During automotive metal fabrication, you typically won't have to cut through thicknesses more than ½". Although you tin settle for mid-level power output, attempt to stick to high-quality models. When you are on occasion facing thicker metals, chances are that yous will get the task washed just fine, even if it takes y'all a little longer.

Dwelling house Utilise (Fabrication)

Equally a homeowner, you may often accept to cutting through metals to do repairs or maintenance. There are many uses for a torch around your habitation. Household applications for these units include

• plumbing,
• dwelling house welding repairs,
• general repairs of things like garage doors and
• fabrication of certain fixtures.

For home fabrication, portability may not exist equally of import equally durability. Since you don't apply your cutter for commercial purposes, it is of import that yous choose a unit that uses consumables conservatively and that has a long lifespan. The power requirements depend on the metal thickness that yous would like to cutting, so make sure that you continue this in mind.

Different Price Point Expectations

Under $500

If you are facing some budgetary constraints, the proficient news is that you lot may non have to forgo quality and immovability. Before you lot start researching equipment beneath $500, ascertain which features you absolutely can't practise without. In this bracket, there are many products bachelor that will work perfectly for the casual metal fabricator or hobbyist.

Under $500, you won't find products with extensive ergonomic designs and customization features. If you just intend on using your plasma cutter occasionally, still, these expensive add-on features are not necessary.

The downside of units in this cost range is that the chances of beingness able to make cuts above 1/5" are pretty slim. Mid-range power may, in some cases, allow you to make cuts that are wider than recommended, although this may take longer.

Another matter to continue in mind is that consumable wear is typically higher in this price category. Consumables may also be more expensive, so although you may salve initially, the operating costs may be higher in the long run.

If you lot want to buy a plasma cutter that you can apply regularly and for more intensive piece of work, it is appropriate that yous salve up for a unit on the college cease.

Nether $grand

Unlike units priced below $500, this toll category consists of models that comprise premium features for the cut equipment. These characteristics don't necessarily relate to ability and quality, merely rather to adjustability, portability, and ergonomics.

In this price range, you may exist facing sure merchandise-offs; for example, a unit under $k with a i" cutting ability will, in all likelihood, not accept the best duty cycle and amperage control. Also, highly maneuverable and controllable units may not have the best cutting capacity.

If your budget allows for a unit in this price range, prioritize cutting capacity and quality. Features similar portability, adaptable arc settings, and automatic air menstruation are not things that you absolutely need, but they will push the price upwards to $1200 or college.

Normally, this cost subclass is the sweet spot for serious hobbyists or habitation shop owners. If you are a professional, you lot can get away in this category if you are willing to practice away with some of the extra add-ons and features to assistance in the cut process.

Top of the range systems unremarkably costs around $2000. These products typically have everything a user needs, including power and extensive cutting capabilities. If y'all don't use your cutter every day for loftier-intensity cut, y'all tin can safely stick to models beneath $1000.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Fix a Plasma Torch?

Setting upwardly and using a plasma machine is relatively piece of cake. Earlier setting upwardly, it is of import to know that plasma cutting works through a complete electrical current, which means that, similar to welding, you lot need a ground clench.

The outset step is to make certain you have a work surface that is rubber. There should exist enough infinite for your workpiece, and y'all demand to be able to move freely around the piece of work table. Side by side, after making sure that the unit is switched off, plug it in.

If your unit requires an external air compressor, the next step in setting up your cutter is to connect the compressor. Attach the connection by receding the outer band and inserting the male connector. Turn the air flow on and so that there is constant air pressure.

Next, place your workpiece on your work surface and connect your ground clamp to the workpiece itself. For best results, make certain that you clamp the ground cable shut to where yous will be cutting. And then, switch on the unit by flicking or pressing a switch behind a unit labeled "On/Off" or "Ability." This volition activate the plasma arc.

Finally, set the current according to the thickness of the workpiece metallic. To start cutting, bring your nozzle close to the metallic surface and pull the trigger.

What Tin Plasma Cut Through?

Most torches can cut through whatsoever electrically conductive materials. This is because at that place has to be a consummate electrical current dorsum to the unit via the ground clamp and workpiece.

Electrically conductive materials accommodate the flow of an electrical electric current in one or more than directions and are typically made of metallic. An electrical electric current is the flow of negatively charged electrons or positive or negative ions.

Operators typically use ionized particles to cut through metals such as copper, aluminum, brass, steel, and stainless steel. This list is not comprehensive; you lot will also be able to cut through other electrically conductive materials.

Should I Buy a Plasma Cutter Online?

Aye. There are many reasons why shopping online for a plasma cutter is amend than at retail stores. Showtime, prominent online stores provide complimentary shipping if the sellers' accounts let for it. This tin can lower the cost point significantly, especially since units are typically bulky and heavy.

Where brick and mortar stores may offer their buyers a selection of 10 or 15 models, online platforms sometimes take hundreds of products to choose from. This means that if you buy online, you go admission to a greater selection of units that volition come across your unique requirements.

When you shop online, you lot tin can encounter exactly what previous buyers think of their cutters. This makes information technology is possible for yous to know what y'all can expect regarding operation, longevity, and overall quality, whether y'all will be cutting or welding with the auto.

Tin a Plasma Cutter Cut Wood or Plastic?

One of the biggest drawbacks of the otherwise comprehensive and handy technology of these systems is the fact that you can't use them for cut non-conductive materials. When there is no electric electric current back to the unit from the workpiece, there is no ability for the plasma stream.

Additionally, the oestrus that these units produce tin exist dissentious to non-conductive materials. There are, still, affordable tools that specialize in cutting materials such as forest or plastic. For cutting different types of metal, however, nothing beats the speed and precision of a plasma cutter.

Are Cheap Plasma Cutters Worth It?

As a dominion, the long-term value you derive from these machines is more than from loftier-end products. When you lot buy a cheaper cutter, you tin't expect to get optimal quality, durability, and power.

It depends on your unique needs. If you demand a machine to cut ii inches of a ¼" canvass one time a week, ownership cheaper equipment is appropriate. On the other hand, if you need something that you can utilise extensively every mean solar day, a inexpensive plasma cutter will not be worth it.

The potential value you can get from a high-quality and high-performance unit of measurement often trumps the initial costs you save. This is because cheaper models typically have longer to perform cuts. They also apply consumables at a faster rate, which can hike your running costs over time.

If yous demand a machine to use every twenty-four hour period, a inexpensive cutter will not be worth it. It is better to spend more than for an constructive production that y'all know will last for years.

Conclusion

Regardless of your capacity every bit a metalworker, ane thing is articulate: a durable plasma machine is worth its weight in golden.

The items listed above are all tried and tested by real people that use their machines oft. Choosing a product from our listing will make you a satisfied customer, provided that you pick ane that adheres to your needs.

When ownership a plasma torch, go on the following aspects in mind: cut width, power output, duty cycle, consumable use and costs, and portability. When y'all detect units with requirements that match your needs, y'all tin make decisions regarding quality and toll.

Recommended Reading:

• The 7 Highest Rated TIG Welders for the Coin in 2022

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Disclosure: We brand a pocket-size commission from Amazon whenever yous purchase products following our links (at no additional price to you lot). This volition never bear on our evaluation of products. You tin find our full disclosure here.

Source: https://weldinginsider.com/best-plasma-cutter/

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