Plasma cutter choices

[Chass]

I've been researching plasma cutters lately in preparation for a purchase. I've read the Seabass thread almost entirely as well as the related threads. Those machines appear to work pretty good. I'm strongly considering buying one.

I've looked at a couple used machines too. One is an old non inverter type that is REALLY heavy and needs a new gun for $600. The other is a Thermal Dynamics 51 that comes with a circle cutter for $1200. I can get the THermal Dynamics 51 for less than $1400 new so I'm having a hard time buying a used one with no warranty for $1200. Plasma cutters are really hard to find used though!

I think I understand the difference between an inverter type and a non-inverter type plasma cutter. Basically the inverter type is new technology. I've found that many of the big manufacturers are offering inverter type cutters now too so I assume its a stable technology and a well built one should last like any non-inverter type.

I've decided I need a 50 amp or bigger cutter. I may cut up to 3/4" plate for some applications.

The Thermal Dynamics 51 seems to be the best deal going for a decent name brand 50 amp cutter. On the other hand, the Parker models are WAY cheaper and offer most of the same benefits.

I'm still skeptical that a unit that much cheaper will do the job as well. I can afford to buy a more expensive unit but buying a cheaper unit will free up money for things like link ends and air shocks so long as it will get the job done.

Are there any drawbacks to the cheapo models that haven't been covered in the other threads? Are there significant advantages to the more expensive name brand models?

Basically and aside from the usual made in the USA reasons, why would I buy a Thermal Dynamics or other name brand unit over one of the cheaper units from Parker?

Thanks,
Chass
ct

[MT4Runner]

I didn't do as much research, other than reading the SeaBass thread, and DivTec's thread in the vendor forum.

I bought the 40/160 TIG/stick/plasma. Haven't TIGged with it yet, but I've been 110% pleased with the performance of the plasma and stick. I have the Turbo upgrade.

Plasma does great up to 1/2", but struggles with 3/4". I'd recommend 60A if you plan to cut that thickness regularly. I've cut it by gouging from both sides. Not neat, but waaay faster than a chopsaw. If it's only occasional use, you can also cut thicker with gas.

I'd never used DC stick before, and now my old Lincoln 225 is really getting dusty! It makes a hella smooth, hot, deep, flat bead.

[coilcj]

Another Divtec vote, I purchased the plasma tec 40 without the turbo and am incredibly impressed! I had never used a plasma before but figured for the $ I would pick one up, now is one of my favorite toys, I mean tools

[JamisonWorkshop]

I used my buddies Hypertherm 350 religously before the inverter styles came out. He paid 1200 for it.

My little cutter that could puts it to shame, and makes me smile everytime I use it. You really can not go wrong.

[PTSchram]

ESAB go right, go once.

[MC]

The shear cost of consumables is what lead us to a Thermal Dynamics 101

[Todd W]

I like my Hypertherm 600, I did have to take the gun apart and fix something but it was easy Other than that no probs.

[cybergeek23851]

At the school shop, we have had a TD Cutmaster 51 for about 4 years with no problem. At the shop where I did a welding test for an interview, they had an Esab. I did'nt get a chance to really check it out that much, but it cut well for what I was being tested on.

It all comes down to what is carried locally, or you can get parts for, easily.

[BumpyDodge]

Originally Posted by PTSchram

ESAB go right, go once.

Saw a little bitty ESAB plasma at my welding supply the other day while I was picking up some supplies. It had a built-in air source. It was only rated for 1/8" but it was *tiny*. Neat little package. Thought it would be good for somebody that cuts a lot of body panels/sheet metal. Anyone used this thing? (don't recall exact model - just had a quick look at it while I was waiting for the counter guy)

[Trailworks]

Originally Posted by MC

The shear cost of consumables is what lead us to a Thermal Dynamics 101

What's your overall impression of this machine, my 12 year old ESAB just took the perma shit on me & I'm leaning towards the Thermal 101 as a replacement.

[SeaBass44]

I get 10 tips & several swirl cups and other tip crap for $26 shipped

I don't think it gets cheaper then that

mine cuts 5/8" clean and weighs 22lbs is smaller then a HH135-187 I just bought a 187, think it weights 68lbs

I have yet to hear of any disadvantages to my $299 plasma

[FugginZukin]

I vote Parker MP (Divtec) as well. For the money they can't be beat. Since I am local I went and picked mine up personally. Their outfit is legitimate and top notch.

I purchased the Tech 60 a while back for $599.99 and couldn't be happier. I was cutting 1/4" last night like I was drawing on paper. Only had the setting to ~35-40 amps. Had tons of poop left in it.

[TNRanger]

I use a TD Pakmaster 50XL Plus. Inverter is definitely better. I use a Hypertherm 40CS at work and it can't hold a candle(not to mention it's twice the size).

[MC]

Originally Posted by Trailworks

What's your overall impression of this machine, my 12 year old ESAB just took the perma shit on me & I'm leaning towards the Thermal 101 as a replacement.

I am not a plasma expert by any means and have only used a couple different kinds but in my opinion the thermal dynamics is superior to anything else its size.

[solidaxleford]

i just bought a plasma/tig/stick combo from larry aka gianttechguy and he has been a huge help he even drove several hrs when i had an issue to get me up and running again and the 40amp plasma has no issue cutting 1/2 inch steel i just used it to hack c hushings off a dana 44 and it worked great he comes highly recomended and the cutter also cant beat it for the money

[sandking]

^^^ Ditto on the giantechguy plasma 40D. I have started a post on here saying people should consider one of these units.