Anything welding

I'd skip both, personally.

When it comes to plasma cutters, there are different types for different uses.

Was describing the differences to another member as he wanted a plasma cutter he could cut through rusted or painted steel with. Some machines can do this, whereas others can't since they require a "completed circuit" in order to maintain firing of the torch.

Then there's the whole high frequency start which is nice to have (starts at the press of a trigger, no contact) but does not play well with CNC tables as it can disrupt your stepper motors and other associated items. Also requires a well completed circuit (ground clamp, clean steel).

Just figure out your desired use.

 

I don't see any CNC tables in the future; if I do get one, I'll get a better machine to go with it. I'm looking for a machine that can do the rusted/painted metal, something that will be cleaner and faster than a cutoff wheel.

 

It never Hurts to share.

 

Eh, cnc was just 1 example I made.

You missed the rest

 

But going back to *try* to answer your question, there's the touch-style start where just like lift tig, you touch the work piece, lift slightly and you'll get your arc.

Then there's pilot arc which uses air to push said current and force your torch to fire (best for rusted/painted crap).

With pilot arc there are moving parts and I've seen on a specific Lincoln where nozzles and tips aren't the only thing you'll replace. Can get rather expensive even on a higher quality setup.

I'd recommend high frequency for you if you're just cutting clean metal to your liking. That or lift.

I can't comment on the two above because many other manufacturers use terminology incorrectly; same way automotive parts stores call every shock a strut when really..a vehicle like a Tacoma does not actually use, a strut.

Hope this helps.

 

Having my dick bottle openers is enough penis in my file library

 

So you have them all zipped up into one file..


Hey it is a new era no judgment...

 

Do you plan to be scrapping lots of Aluminum and Stainless so you need a plasma Machine?

 

I doubt I'll be doing anything with Aluminum or Stainless in the near future. I have a couple of trailer projects that need to be rebuilt, a steal rear bumper project for my nephew, and I occasionally do CMC jobs for local folks. A Plasma cutter is not imperative, but I think it would make the jobs go easier. Also, there is the appeal of "more tools," an addiction that always needs to be fed now and then...

 

i can accept the new Tool !

The only time I use the plasma is on stainless or Aluminum.

I am always going to reach for the torch .

 

I don't have a torch or a plasma. Either one would be an improvement on a 4.5" cutoff wheel.

 

I got my plasma cutter. I might have kept my torches another 2 years. Sold them. I honestly don't miss the torches.

 

I think PW explained it pretty well in their add for this torch (which I have, use for CNC, and recommend). I know you said no CNC, but reading this still helps understanding.

I've also hand and CNC cut rusty stuff as long as I grind a clean place for the work clamp.

The PrimeWeld CUT60 110v 220v Plasma Cutter is excellent for CNC use. Plasma cutters that start the arc with high-frequency technology can interfere with digital electronics such as computers and cell phones, meaning welders can’t use them with a computer-controlled CNC plasma cutting table. This 60 amp plasma cutter solves that problem with a blowback pilot torch.

Blowback torches use a buildup of air pressure against the material surface. That pressure forces the electrode backward into the torch when you pull the trigger, firing the torch arc. You can also drag start this torch by touching it to the cutting surface and literally dragging the torch. Use affordable, powerful, and high-quality 60 amp plasma cutter for production runs of precision-cut parts and for complex artwork.

CONTINUOUS PILOT ARC FOR MESH OR PERFORATED STEEL
The PrimeWeld CUT60 Plasma Cutter also offers a continuous pilot arc, cutting material like grating, mesh steel, and expanded metal with ease. When the arc is in open spaces in the metal, the torch stops cutting until it reaches another solid place, then restrikes the cutting arc.

 

lol, i know a few people that would use it for a 'weather gauge'. it'd break off real quick!

 

Are you saying you want one?

 

Maybe put out a 'feeler'

 

nah. metal fatigue means it can only be re-attached so many times!

 

Stainless steel just for you!

 

I got into many jobs where the good old Rose Bud needed used to apply heat.

I teased the Hypertherm reps all the time to design a heating option for the plasma system.

 

Not all of us grew up carving in stone

Some of us embrace the advances in tech