Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Plasma Cutter
With the latest technology, plasma cutting is becoming more popular these days. Many companies use plasma cutting to save time. Plasma cutters are the best tool for this job. Plasma cutter is a metal cutting tool. It uses a superheated gas plasma arc to cut steel and other metals for sheet metal work, shipbuilding, or construction industry which is very fast compared with the oxy-fuel cutting process. Choosing a suitable plasma cutter can be a complex process. Different models have different features, and it is essential to know what you are looking for before making your purchase. This blog post will discuss some things that should factor into your decision when choosing an appropriate plasma cutter for your needs.
Materials You Are Cutting
The first thing that you need to consider is the materials you will cut using the plasma cutters. Cutting different materials requires a different set of features on the plasma unit.
For instance, aluminum and other light metals require more energy to cut than steel, which means you will need higher air pressure. If you are cutting thicker metal panels or sheets up to ¼ inch thick, it is likely best suited for an industrial or professional-grade machine with high-quality plasma cutters. Also, if you are going to cut a lot of different metals, then it might be worth looking at the continuous metal-cutting capabilities.
Cut Rating and Quality
Now, let’s talk about the cut rating and quality. These aspects are related to its capabilities. You need to know what is the maximum thickness of metal that this plasma cutter can cut. It’s essential to consider as you need to find out the best cut rating you want to use. There are Rated Cut, Quality Cut, and Sever Cut. Also, make sure you check out the amperage rating with voltage because it will determine how good your cut quality will be. The lower voltages are better for cutting thicker metals, but they might not have a smooth finish than higher settings. Aside from that, you need to choose
Cutter Weight
Plasma cutters vary in size and weight. You need to check out the weight because it can affect your cutting efficiency. The lighter your machine means you get better results as you don’t have to exert too much effort when using this tool. However, you need to know that the lighter plasma cutters won’t have the same power and ability to cut more prominent and thicker materials than the more giant plasma cutters. If possible, choose a plasma cutter that comes with wheels attached, so moving around is more accessible. So, choose the weight wisely.
Cutter Features
Many companies offer different features for their plasma cutters. You need to know what you want from a plasma cutter. Then, see if there are any features of a plasma cutter that suit your need. If you are unsure what features to look for, find plasma cutters with Air Purging or Venting System.
It is ideal for an air purging system, so no dirt is located in the nozzle. It may lead to more complicated repairs down the line. Some plasma cutters also have a vacuum system, which is a convenient feature to look for. It saves you from worrying about dirt and small debris getting inside the nozzle or around it because it can suck out everything along with the air that gets pushed in as well as plasma gas.
Cost
Although you have already imagined what type of plasma cutter you want to buy, you need to consider the cost. Do not be fooled by the cheap device that you will find in big box stores. It may look too good to resist, but these are usually low-quality cutters with limited capabilities. The final price of a plasma cutter depends on its type and model and its additional features. You can buy one for around $475 or even more than that, but you should not pay more than $700. The best plasma cutters are also the most expensive ones you can find on the market, but it is worth spending extra cash because they will provide top-notch performance and capabilities. They will certainly offer excellent value for your money as they work faster and last longer.
With so many considerations to make, it can be challenging to know which plasma cutter is the best choice. The factors we’ve discussed should help you narrow down your options and find a suitable machine for your needs, where you are, a welding professional, a home renovation contractor, or any other professional. However, there are always other variables that could affect the decision-making process, such as price or personal preference. So, feel free to reach us on the comment. Happy hunting!…