I don't really understand CFM's or anything...thanks for the help.


Hobart AirForce™ 625 Portable Plasma Cutter
ICE-40C hand-held torch with 25-ft. cable, 20-ft. work cable with clamp and 12-ft. industrial power cord with 208/230 VAC plug
Rated output of 40 Amps @ 140 VDC, 50% duty cycle
6 CFM @ 75 PSI plasma gas flow/pressure
Wind Tunnel Technology™ prevents abrasive dust from damaging internal components
Fan-On-Demand™ cooling system reduces dust and dirt pulled through system
Power Factor Correction (PFC) circuitry draws 30% less amperage and expands work area via extension cord without breaker trips caused by voltage drops
Ideal for shops with mild steel cutting capability of 1/2in. to 7/8in.
5-year limited warranty on rectifier parts, 3-year limited warranty on power source and 1-year limited warranty on torches. U.S.A. Factory shipped


my air compressor:
Harbor Freight 4.5 HP 21 Gallon
Long-life oil lubricated compressor with precision machined cast iron sleeve
Twin capacitor motor with thermal overload protection
Wheel kit with 6'' wheels and ergonomic for smooth portability
Oil level indicator window for easy maintenance
Reduced vibration with rubber foot stabilizers
4-1/2 peak horsepower; 120 volt, 60Hz
125 PSI max; 4.4 CFM @ 90 PSI; 11.1 CFM @ 40 PSI
Shipping weight: 152 lbs.

6 CFM @ 75 PSI plasma gas flow/pressure

my air compressor:
125 PSI max; 4.4 CFM @ 90 PSI; 11.1 CFM @ 40 PSI

Maybe. You need a compressor that puts out at least 6 cfm at 75 psi. Yours may come pretty close to that but the compressor will be running a lot while you are cutting.

As indicated the compressor will be running alot to deliver 6 at 75 psi. That means;
1. Get a decent coalescing filter to remove water near the torch which will save on torch part replacements as water vapor in the air supply plays havoc.

2. Another air tank in parallel will reduce the cycling as it acts like a buffer volume. Tank doesnt have to be another compressor, just a tank for one.

At the very least #1 should be done...

D.

i ended up ordering this model. http://usaweld.com/product_page/plasma_cutters/300.html

it's two friends and i. we were going to use northern tools ez payment plan to get a hobart, but i called htp to see if they knew of any distributors that would do something like that. they didn't, but suggested this model because it's on sale right now. killer price @ $750. the few reviews of this brand that we've come across have been favorable.