I am close to ordering my first plasma cutter from my local welding store. I use MIG welders, a Miller 211 and a Hobart set up for Flux Core. I fix my equipment and fab things for my tree service, I am not building anything heavy duty like trailers or grapple trucks day in day out. I'm usually out doing tree work.
I have been doing research for most of a year, and I am mostly sold on the Hypotherm PM30xp. I can get this for $1300. My store also likes the Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 for $1150. Both units do 120/240, which is another reason I'd like to stay in this class, because you never know what you'll break and what is available.
As I understand it, the TD unit has a little more power, The Hypotherm's consumables last longer too from what I've read. Hypotherm is made in the US, not China. Both machines have a good reputation and a good warranty. Both are 3/8" cut units and should sever 5/8".
A few concerns I have, and I appreciate your guys input...
- Many people recommend getting a unit that "cuts twice as much as you think you'll need."
As I see it, that's more money and the unit will not be as mobile, or run off 120v if needed. I also DON'T want something that I will immediately outgrow. Thoughts?
- A good friend told me that the consumables 12+/- years ago were terrible, and the machines were not that powerful.
Has technology vastly improved with plasma cutters in the last 15 years?
I have been doing research for most of a year, and I am mostly sold on the Hypotherm PM30xp. I can get this for $1300. My store also likes the Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 for $1150. Both units do 120/240, which is another reason I'd like to stay in this class, because you never know what you'll break and what is available.
As I understand it, the TD unit has a little more power, The Hypotherm's consumables last longer too from what I've read. Hypotherm is made in the US, not China. Both machines have a good reputation and a good warranty. Both are 3/8" cut units and should sever 5/8".
A few concerns I have, and I appreciate your guys input...
- Many people recommend getting a unit that "cuts twice as much as you think you'll need."
As I see it, that's more money and the unit will not be as mobile, or run off 120v if needed. I also DON'T want something that I will immediately outgrow. Thoughts?
- A good friend told me that the consumables 12+/- years ago were terrible, and the machines were not that powerful.
Has technology vastly improved with plasma cutters in the last 15 years?