You will agree with me that, one of the major challenges, when you are dealing with electrically conductive materials for artwork, is cutting the metals. Unless you have the right tools, it can be quite challenging getting the ideal pieces for your projects. But, did you know that with the advanced tools this process can be so easy that you will complete so many projects within a short period and hence increase your productivity? Plasma cutters are tools that make work easier and enjoyable in the manufacturing and automotive repair industries. These tools are also ideal for use in the industrial construction, restoration, scrapping and salvage processes, whether you are creating artwork or manufacturing finished parts.
Plasma cutting involves slicing through electrically conductive materials by the use of an accelerated jet of superheated, electrically ionized gas (plasma). With plasma torch, you will be able to cut materials such as steel, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, copper, among others. The process is widely used due to its high speed and precision of the cuts at a low cost. Whether you are in small hobby companies or large industrial CNC where you use the materials for welding, plasma cutting remains the perfect option.
Since there are many plasma cutters in the market, a lot of care is needed in choosing these vital tools. This guide helps you to know what to consider when buying these machines as well as listing some of the state of the art tools that have stood the test of time. READ on and select what suits you most:
Factors to Consider When Purchasing the Best Plasma Cutters
There are many plasma cutters in the market from different manufactures but you need to choose the best. It may not be easy to pick the right one unless you know what to look for. We have compiled a list of the factors to consider for you to choose what suits your needs and situation. Read on:
- The stability of the tool
The stability of the cutting surface is crucial when it comes to choosing the best tool. The table should be fully-welded and rock solid and should not twist or move when you start cutting. The machine that you choose must be able to withstand huge pieces of metal every day and not one the breaks down after only a few days of using. The machine must, therefore, be uniquely designed to be a heavy-duty and not weak one.
- Must be easy to use
For your machine to be productive, it must be easy to use. It should have software that is not too hard to operate as this will affect your speed of production. The machine should be of high quality with excellent software that will enable you to enjoy the capabilities of the tool. It is advisable to look for a device whose operation is easy to learn and also one that includes a user guide and instructions.
- Must be durable
Since these tools are meant to serve you for long, you should look for one that is sturdy and durable. It is crucial that you look for a machine that will maintain its effectiveness even after many years of service. To be sure, you can search from the internet or inquire from others who may have used the machine ahead of you. Different brands have their unique qualities of strength and you will, therefore, need to search extensively.
- The speed
The speed of a machine is one of the determinants of superior quality. It is, therefore, necessary for you to look for a tool whose speed is high as this will translate to the production. The high speed of a device means higher production and thus the low cost of operation. You should, therefore, look for a machine whose rate is up to 500 IPM (inches per minute) but this depends on the materials to be cut.
- Accuracy / Precision
Accuracy or precision is a key factor in every process whose outcome must be appealing and attractive. You should make sure that besides the machine having the right speed it produces accurate cuts with the best quality. The cuts must be clean and sharp to enable them to stand out among those of your competitors.
- The cost
Your budget plays a major role that may out shadow all other factors. The quality of the plasma cutter may be directly proportional to the cost. You need to choose the highest quality machine that does not call for repairs after every few cuts. It will be wise therefore that after establishing what suits your needs, that you save enough money to buy the tool. It may however not be the case that the most expensive tool is the best, therefore, shop and compare several and choose the most superior.
- Compactness
The tool that you select must be compact and lightweight for you to move it, especially if it requires you working from different locations. It should also be capable of cutting different materials such as aluminum, carbon steel, stainless steel, among others, easily without leaving spot welds on the product. It is also necessary to look for a tool that has fans to regulate the temperatures to cool off the machine and extend its life.
- The type of projects you are dealing with
The type of projects or tasks you are dealing with also plays a crucial role in choosing the tool to purchase. If you only deal with minor welding works or repairs, you don’t need to buy a very complicated tool. However, if you are working on massive projects such as automotive assembling and construction work, you will require a huge machine that can cut through heavier metals.
Top 6 plasma cutters for 2020 (Best Picks)
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Summary of the six best plasma cutters for 2020
Getting the best quality tool for your projects is the first step forward that ensures you remain at the top of your competitors. You, therefore, need to be extra careful when choosing these vital tools to get the most suitable and those that will not interrupt your work with frequent breaking down. You should compare several of them, research from the internet or even ask from friends. A trial and error would also be appropriate but may be impossible due to the cost and resources involved. Do you have all the time needed to research? I bet you don’t. What then do I do? You are wondering. Relax! We have researched for you and compiled a list of the six best plasma cutters that will not only impress you but will also produce those amazing and incredible results that will leave your competitors agape with envy: Read on
Product Name | Features/ Benefits |
Lotos LPT5500D pilot arc plasma cutter | Efficient and convenient to use Better cutting quality and longer consumable life Compact and portable Uses non-hazardous compressed air Excellent output and performance |
Primeweld Premium Plasma Cutter | Cuts most metals such as alloy steel, mild steel Portable Customer service backing Reliable and convenient Three-year warranty |
LOTOS LT5000D 50amp air inverter Plasma Cutter | Dual voltage 110/220VAC 1/2 inch clean cut Safe to use and inexpensive Easy to assemble and use Papst advanced cooling system |
Super Deal Dc Inverter Plasma Cutter | Excellent performance The high duty cycle for less power consumption Economical and efficient High speed, temperature, and energy plasma draught Reliable, sturdy and durable |
| ` Lotos CT520D 50Amp Air Plasma Cutter | Compact plasma cutter Compatible and portable Uses non-hazardous compressed air Quality TIG Welder Easy and quick to install 30 days refund and 1-year warranty |
Zeny DC Inverter Plasma Cutter | High efficiency and energy saving The dual voltage at 110V or 220V Compact design and wide applications Improved cooling method Endurable cutting consumables |
Review of Best Plasma Cutters One By One
1. Non-Touch pilot Arc Plasma Cutter by Lotos
The non-touch pilot arc is a plasma cutter that efficiently cuts through painted, rough, and rusty surfaces producing minimum slag. It has a technology that enables you to cut without the metal without touching its tip and it also has a better cutting quality and consumable life. The device is also compact and safe to use since it uses a non-hazardous compressed air. You can use the tool to cut stainless steel, mild steel, copper, aluminum and alloy steel.
The device is easy to install and use since it has a pre-installed NPT 1/4 –inch industry type D plug. It also has an air filter regulator that enables you to quickly connect it to the air compressor. It is possible to set the machine within a minute and this makes it very convenient. The tool has an advanced cooling system to ensure a stable and durable superior performance.
Features
- Cuts through rough, rusty and painted surfaces efficiently
- Produces minimum slag
- Cuts without touching the metal tip
- Better cutting quality and longer consumable life
- Compact and safe to use
- Easy and quick to set up
- Dual voltage input
Specifications
- Item weight: 19.4 pounds
- Product dimension: 15 x 6 x 12 inches
- Size: 1-pack
- Color: brown
- Material: steel
- Power source: ac/dc
Ideal plasma cutter!
2. PRIMEWELD Premium Plasma Cutter
A premium plasma cutter is a portable machine that makes it easy for you to move from one place to the other where the projects are. The tool is compact enough and does not break during movement. The device is capable of cutting various metals including copper, mild and alloy steel, aluminum, stainless steel among other metals without braking. The tool is made from high quality and durable material that makes it serve you for long.
Prime weld plasma cutter is a 50 amp digital air inverter device that handles cuts up to 1/2 inch easily. It has a maximum thickness of 3/4 inches and dual voltage capability that allows the device to run directly on 220V 50/60 Hz power. The machine can also run on 110V 50/60 Hz and it is, therefore, possible to use it even at home. it is possible to work on metalwork jobs of different sizes and shapes.
Features
- Can cut all shapes and sizes
- Dual voltage capability
- 50-amp digital air inverter
- Can handle cuts up to 1/2 inch
- Can run directly on 220V 50/60 Hz or 110V 50/60 Hz
Specifications
- Material: steel
- Amperage: 50 amp
- Max severance thickness: 3/4 inch
- Warranty: 3-year
3. LOTOS LT5000D 50A inverter Plasma Cutter
This plasma cutter is ideal for cutting alloy, stainless, and mild steel. It is also suitable for cutting copper, aluminum and other electrically conductive metals. The device uses non-hazardous compressed air and it is, therefore, safe to use as well as inexpensive. The device is compact and has a handle that makes it highly portable thus you can easily move it from one place to another where your projects are.
You can easily and quickly install this tool since it has a pre-installed NPT 1/4 inch industry type D plug. The tool also has an air filter regulator which enables you to easily and fast connection to the air compressor. The papst advanced cooling system of the on the device ensures that the plasma cutter has a stable, durable and excellent performance without overheating. The machine is convenient to use since it comes in a package containing the power supply and a plasma cutting torch. It also includes ground clamp, air filter regulator, consumables, instruction manual and pre-installed NPT 1/4 –inch industry type D plug.
Features
- Compact and portable
- Easy and quick installation
- Safe to use and inexpensive
- Uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut various metals
- Automatic dual voltage 110V/220V
- Automatic dual frequency 50/60 Hz
- PAPST advanced cooling system
Specifications
- Input voltage: 110V-220V, 1-PH. 50/60 Hz
- Input current: 110-220V, 1-PH, 20 A
- Output current: 10-50 A
- Weight: 22.5 lbs (10.2 kg)
- Input power cable length: 6-inches (1.8 m)
- Maximum severance thickness: 3/4 inches
Ideal and safe for cutting all metals!
4. Super Deal DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
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Super deal plasma cutter features superior technology for a stable performance. It is economical and efficient to use since it has high speed, temperature, and energy as well as a high duty cycle that leads to little consumption of power. The device is made of heavy-duty iron that gives it a solid material construction making it reliable. It is also strong and you can, therefore, use it for a long period without it breaking down. You can comfortably use this tool for businesses, DIY projects or for professional operations.
The machine is designed to protect you from injuries while using it since it comes with a wire and mask. Its design is also considerable and safe for the users as it has a built-in overheat, over-voltage, and under-voltage protection. You will, therefore, be able to use the device without the risk of it exploding or causing accidents.
You can use this plasma cutter for a wide range of applications such as sheet metal fabrication, site wok, automotive, light industrial use, ducting work, repair, and maintenance services. You will therefore not require buying different tools for each job as you can easily switch for one use to the other.
Features
- Digital LCD
- Easy read front panel air-pressure gauge
- Noiseless
- High cutting speed
- Cuts smoothly with no polish demands
- Saves energy
- Considerable and safe design
- Steady, reliable and lightweight
Specifications
- Item weight: 24.4 pounds
- Product dimension: 18.5 x 11 x 13.5 inches
- Size: cut 50
- Color: orange
- Power source: DC
A multipurpose plasma cutter!
5. Lotos CT520D 50 Amp Air Plasma Cutter
Lotos CT529D is a 3 in 1 combo welding machine that has a dual voltage of 220V/110V. It is a 50 amp air plasma cutter, 200 amp TIG welder and a 200 amp stick welder. The tool is suitable for cutting stainless steel, mild and alloy steel, copper, aluminum and other metallic materials. The cutter is safe, quick, cheap and easy to use. The device has an automatic dual voltage / dual and dual-frequency of 110V/ 220V 50/60Hz. The dual voltage capability that enables it to run directly on 220V 50/60 Hz, or 110V 500/60 Hz. It separately uses a pigtail.
Lotos CT520D is a multipurpose welder that enables you to use it as a stick weld or DC TIG as well as a plasma cutter. The machine is portable and convenient to use anywhere. You will be able to cut various types of metals of up to 1/2 inch because of the 50 amp plasma cutting function. It is therefore ideal for all your cutting needs at low cost.
Features
- 3 in 1 machine that acts as a plasma cutter, TIG welder and stick welder
- Dual voltage/frequency
- High speed and precision cuts
- Suitable for cutting most metals
- Safe, low cost and easy to use
Specifications
- Color: brown
- Item weight: 38.5 pounds
- Material: steel
- Size: 1/2 inch clean cut
- Style: 50 amp air plasma cutter
Ideal multipurpose plasma cutter!
6. Zeny DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
Zeny DC inverter plasma cutter is a highly efficient and energy-saving machine that uses inverter technique of switch power. It is stable and also capable of reducing the weight of the main transformer while saving energy up to 50%. The device also capable of increasing efficiency by up to 30% and the improved cooling method of the torch makes the cutting consumables more endurable.
You will be able to choose the voltage to use since the machine has a dual voltage that enables it to operate at 110V or 220V. The plasma cutter has the function of supplying the gas ahead and for delaying gas turn off. You can use the tool anywhere because it has a handle that makes it portable and easy to carry. It is ideal for all DIY and general repairing work and both home garages and workshop.
Features
- High efficiency and energy saving
- The dual voltage that allows the tool to operate at 110V or 220V
- Compact design and wide applications
- Ability to supply gas ahead and delay gas turn off
- Portable and easy to use
- Perfect for home DIY and general repair work
Specification
- Net weight: 22.5 lb
- Voltage: 110V/220V
- Duty cycle: 60%
- Efficiency: 85%
- Insulation class: F
- Maximum cutting thickness: 1-12mm
Suitable for all cutting projects!
Frequently asked questions about best plasma cutters
Like all other people that work with metals, you may have several questions that you need to be answered about plasma cutters. We have sampled some of them and their answers which we feel are important to you.
Q. What is a plasma cutter?
A plasma cutter is a machine used to cut through electrically conductive materials such as aluminum, copper, steel among others using an electrically ionized gas. The tool cuts by a means of an accelerated jet of hot plasma using a torch to transfer energy from a power supply to any conductor, resulting in a cleaner, quicker cutting process. A gas such as a shop air, nitrogen, oxygen, or argon is forced through a small orifice inside the torch. An electric arc generated from an external power source is introduced to the high pressured gas flow, which results in a plasma.
Q. What are the benefits of plasma cutting?
The process is less expensive than both laser and water jet cutting and hence cost-effective. This method prevents warping and damage of paints and other coatings since it keeps the materials cool in spite of operating at high temperatures.
Q. What is a high definition plasma?
This is plasma cutting in which the beam is distributed through a much smaller nozzle orifice at a higher speed. The high-velocity results in more accurate profile cutting. The beam is constricted using a shielding gas that swirls around it hence keeping the beam straight. A square edge on the cut parts and better cut surface quality are produced as a result. This process may be different from plasma cutting as the speed must be higher.
Q. Which plasma gas gives the best result with mild steel?
Most economical cutting use dry shop air to cut mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. However, if the material is thick aluminum or stainless steel, argon-hydrogen with nitrogen secondary is the ideal choice. But the system must be properly equipped for safe operation with argon-hydrogen gas. You, therefore, need to understand all the requirements of plasma cutting before using it.
Q. Must you have an air compressor for a plasma cutter?
An air compressor is necessary when using a plasma cutter. If you are cutting steel as a hobby, you will need a compressor that has a CFM rating greater than that of the tool. However, if you are dealing with heavier cutting, the compressor should be either 1.5 or 2 times greater. It is therefore advisable to check on the manufacturer’s manual to know the requirements of your machine and use it with the appropriate air compressor.
Q. Can a plasma cutter be used as welding equipment?
If the cutter uses oxygen, it can cause oxidation of the aluminum metal and is therefore not ideal. However, if you have the right design of the torch a less expensive nitrogen-water injection can work well with the cutter. It can be used for cutting and subsequent welding of aluminum and stainless material.
How to use a Plasma cutter
Final words
Are you dealing with metals and want to produce your artwork with speed, at the lowest cost and get precision cuts? If yes, look no further than using plasma cutters. These tools are not only safe to use but they also will make you stand out amongst your competitors. You will be able to cut through aluminum, all types of steel, copper, iron and several other electrically conductive materials. We, therefore, advise you to pick the most suitable device from the list above and let your imagination be your only limit to getting you at the top of your competitors
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_cutting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk%3APlasma_cutting
- http://www.technocratplasma.com/frequently-asked-questions.php
- https://www.pinterest.com/powertoolspros/best-plasma-cutter/
Last update on 2023-02-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
