By installing an external compressor (required with a minimum of 8.8 cfm), the device will be able to operate smoothly for a long time, which is quite important in factories or large construction sites.
The upper handle is not very ergonomic.
The Draper 85569 plasma cutting machine is designed for cutting all types of electrically conductive materials, including stainless steel, as well as non-ferrous metals up to 12 mm thick. Supplied with a wide range of accessories, including a protective face mask.
IGBT
230V / 20-40A
up to 12 mm
40A / 60%
~ 4.5 bar
Microprocessor controlled inverter technology
Thermal overload protection
Supplied with plasma torch, earth lead and clamp, air regulator, air hose, chipping hammer with brush, face mask
460 x 270 x 345 mm
10 kg
1 year
There is a scale with current indices that allows an inexperienced welder to set up a device for cutting metal of different thicknesses more accurately.
LCD screen is not well-readable in bright sunlight.
The Goldpower CUT-50 can be a good option for those who are looking for an inexpensive and high-quality model for metal cutting.
IGBT
220V / 10-50A
0 - 15 mm
50A / 60%
3.5 bar
IGBT soft-switch technology, more stable performance
IGBT inverter soft switch
Adjustable cutting current
Built-in over-heat protection
Overcurrent and air pressure light indicators
400 x 260 x 490 mm
13 kg
1 year
The Advanced German Cooling System protects the internal components from overheating, allowing you to work as long as necessary.
The ground clamp is short.
The SUSEMSE Plasma Cutter is suitable for both domestic and professional use. The device has a high cutting speed for both soft metals and hard metals such as cast iron. Thanks to the digital read out technology, high current measurement accuracy is guaranteed.
IGBT
110 V/220 V / 10-50A
up to 12 mm
50A / 60%
~ 3.5 bar
Digital read out technology
Advanced German Cooling System
Adopt contact type ARC cutting
Plasma cutting torch, Ground clamp & cable, Air filter & regulator, Air hose connections, 3 x Electrodes, 3 x Tips, 3 x Ceramic Shield Cups, 3 x Swirl Rings
436 x 274 x 360 mm
8.16 kg
1 year
In addition to protection against overheating, overvoltage and undervoltage, the device has an IP21 protection class, which means that it is protected against the penetration of fingers or objects longer than 80 mm into the case, which makes it even safer.
Plasma tips are of cheap quality.
The Display4top plasma cutter is an economical and efficient device that delivers high speeds, high temperatures, and low noise levels. The device will find its application in various industries, but it is also suitable for domestic needs.
IGBT
230V / 20-50A
up to 12 mm
50A / 60%
4 - 6 bar
LCD screen
IP21S Protection class, Built-in over-heat protection, over-voltage protection, under voltage protection
Earth clamp, 4M cutting, AIR Regulator, 2 x Plasma Tip, PG Head, 2 x gas pipe clasper, 2 x hoop, Pressure reducing valve, Brush, Welding Face Mask
450 x 200 x 350 mm
15 kg
Amazon's 30-day return policy
The device works with an efficiency increase of 30%, while saving energy by 50%, which makes it suitable for use for domestic and professional purposes, performing long and voluminous work.
The instructions are incomplete.
The HITBOX Plasma Cutter is useful for cutting carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper. Has a durable shock-resistant case made of high-quality metal. The compact dimensions and weight contribute to convenient transportation and storage of the welding machine.
IGBT
220V / 40A
up to 12 mm
40A / 60%
~ 3.5 bar
LCD screen
Improved cooling method
Over-current protection, over-voltage protection, under-voltage protection
PTIG TIG torch, gas tube, earth clamp, 1.5 m cable, gas valve
490 x 300 x 360 mm
10.3 kg
24 x 7 customer support
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Draper (85569)
Cuts Through Everything
A plasma cutting tool is only useful insofar as much as what kind of metals it can cut through. Not all plasma cutters are suitable for all metals, so it is important to make sure the tool you use is appropriate for the job you are doing. Thankfully, the Draper 40A 230V Plasma Cutter Kit has been made to cut through all kinds of electrically conductive materials, including stainless steel, as well as non-ferrous metals up to 12 mm thick. With this tool, you can safely and effortlessly cut through whatever materials you need to in a minimal amount of time.
Probably the first thing that needs to be mentioned about this plasma cutter is the amount of accessories it comes with. Included with the kit is the plasma torch, of course, but plenty of other accessories are included as well. An earth lead and clamp, an air hose, and a chipping hammer supply you with all of the tools you need along with the plasma torch, and there is even a protective face mask that will keep the soft tissues of your face well protected from the torch. What this all means is that once you purchase and receive the kit and if you already have a compressor, you can immediately start using it without having to purchase or find the other accessories that you need to start working.
Continuous Operation
Speaking of the compressor, obviously this unit doesn't come with one, but in all likelihood, anyone who is going to be using this device will probably already have one. A few things should be noted about working with this unit. For one, the device needs to be connected to a power outlet going through a 32 amp breaker, especially if you are using this at home, as the total power it will draw while in operation will most likely break a standard 13 amp fuse. Second, whatever compressor you use needs to have an airflow of at least 8.8 cfm for it to work properly. If you are experienced with using a plasma cutter, though, you will probably already be aware of this, but those who are not should keep this in mind.
No plasma cutter is complete without the requisite safety protections, and this device is certainly not missing any. In addition to the safety mask that comes with the kit, the unit itself utilises microprocessor-controlled inverter technology and has thermal overload protection. The unit itself is not very large, which is surprising considering its power, and even has a handle for help with carrying it to another location. In short, this plasma cutter is a complete kit that lets you get started in a short amount of time.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £399.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B018M51U4E |
Goldpower CUT50
Discovery for DIYer
This Sungold model is an outstanding representative of the new age of plasma cutters. This apparatus is endowed with a maximum gas flow rate of 3.5 bar, and it means this cutter is able to slice metal as good as any more powerful one. The Goldpower CUT50 welding tool is equipped with the IGBT inverter soft switch to provide more stable performance, a DC output, and a digital LCD screen that simplifies the reading of the air pressure on the front panel. The tool is very convenient even for inexperienced users since current and indexes of the air pressure light keep you updated on your unit's operating conditions. Moreover, this cutter is endowed with strong interference resistance, which guarantees stable cutting current, steadiness, and continuous current regulation with the intensive arc; all of this facilitates the use of the tool. This welding tool is waterproof and has a shield from electric shock, which makes it safe and durable.
The tool is an economical one and its high duty cycle requires less power consumption. And despite the fact that it is thrifty it is much more productive than the conventional cutting apparatus thanks to its high cutting speed (the tool cuts smoothly and you don't need to perform any polishing work), high temperature, and high energy plasma draught. Less maintenance, less toxic gases, less cleaning, less fire hazard, this welding tool is really a discovery for any DIYer.
Affordable and Powerful
The Goldpower CUT50 max cutting thickness is 15 mm, which is a very good rate for the tool with a pressure of 3.5 bar. This rate is also good compared to any other plasma cutter. The model is suitable for cutting rustproof steel, some kinds of copper alloys, iron, and aluminium, so it is a versatile and multipurpose tool at a nice price. There are some more features that make this plasma cutter even better — it has a built-in over-heat protection (shuts the cutter down if it exceeds the specified temperature), over-voltage protection, under voltage protection, and lack of compressed air pressure protection.
As we've said before, the CUT50 is IGBT tech, not MOSFET. An IGBT tool is more transcendent and more stabilized than the MOSFET one. The MOSFET appliance can cut less than IGBT, too. If we go into listing the differences, the IGBT tech is above the MOSFET tech in the following aspects: peak current capabilities, forward resistance, temperature drift switching speeds and response time, logic level switching and isolation, gate capacitance oscillation, cost, effectiveness at higher voltages, and heat dissipation requirements.
The front part of the welding machine is equipped with a large cooling fan, which is very important in plasma cutting; a bigger cooling fan will let the cutting tool work longer. This model's cooling fan is 20% bigger than that of its usual competitors, and this is one more detail that brings the Goldpower CUT50 better performance. Taking into account all the benefits, we can boldly say that this item is one of the best plasma cutters on the tools market, and this machine simply costs every penny you've paid for it.
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B00KNPB358 |
SUSEMSE (Cut50HF)
Fast Cutting
There's nothing more aggravating than using a plasma cutter that takes forever to cut through anything. Unfortunately, this problem seems to plague many a plasma cutter out there, but at the same time those who are frustrated with this problem do have options. The SUSEMSE Plasma Cutter, which is suitable for both domestic and professional use, is a high-performing model that will please anyone with its cutting abilities. The device has a high cutting speed for both soft metals and hard metals such as cast iron, giving you flexibility in the types of metals you can cut with it, as well as the ability to get your work done in a minimal amount of time.
This plasma cutter has a digital readout that gives you a highly accurate amperage reading, letting you cut with absolute precision for the proper setting. The fast cutting rate is up to 1.8 times faster than what you will get from many other plasma cutters, and its ability to cut through various metals means that you can work with just about any materials, including cast iron, stainless steel, aluminium, and even thick steel plates, something that lower powered units will often struggle with. In essence, this is one of the more flexible plasma cutters available.
Overheating Protection
Another issue that seems to be a common occurrence with many plasma cutters is the limited amount of time that you're able to use them before they overheat. Fortunately, with this particular model such issues are a thing of the past. Thanks to the Advanced German Cooling System integrated into the unit, the internal components are thoroughly protected from overheating, allowing you to work as long as necessary.
What many will be pleased to hear about this unit is that it is an arc cutter, which makes it much easier to cut through the materials you are working with quickly and efficiently. The cutter should be able to cut through materials as thick as 12mm, making this one of the higher performance models on our list. Your work will also be aided by the accessories that are included with this unit, such as the ground clamp and cable, a set of electrodes and tips, ceramic shield cups, swirl rings, and the air filter and regulator which helps keep your work environment free from hazards.
In fact, there is little here that we can find fault with, although it should be noted that the ground clamp cable is a bit short, so make sure that the unit is placed in the ideal location. Other than that, anyone who opts for this plasma cutter should find its performance to be suitable for almost any task.
| Last updated price | £205.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B07Z7YM3QC |
Display4top CUT-50
Pleasant To Use
Many of those who often work with plasma cutters can tell you that many of the ones out on the market are generally not very pleasant machines to work with. Oftentimes, the plasma cutter will introduce toxins into the air, or be very loud, or even just be slow and unwieldy. They tend to have heavy power requirements and it is too often that they just don't perform the job as well as one would like. If you're looking for a plasma cutter that largely gets rid of these issues, then take a look at the Display4top CUT-50 230V DC Inverter Plasma Cutter.
This plasma cutter is an economical and efficient device that delivers high cutting speeds to let you get your work done easily, high temperatures for quick and efficient cutting, and low noise levels. The device is perfectly suitable for various work settings, and it is also suitable for domestic needs provided that you are able to meet its hefty power requirements. The unit itself is not the most compact unit out there, but it does have a rather small footprint so finding the optimal place for putting it shouldn't be much of an issue. What it does have are a pair of convenient carrying handles on each end of the top of the unit that allow you to easily pick it up and move it should you need to do so.
Well-Protected
No plasma cutter is worth buying if it doesn't have the proper set of protections that help make sure that the device is safe to use for extended periods of time. You'll find plenty of that here in this model. In addition to protection against overheating, overvoltage and undervoltage, the device has an IP21S protection class, which means that it is protected against the penetration of fingers or objects longer than 80 mm into the case, which makes it even safer to use than many of the other units you'll encounter. This gives you the peace of mind needed when using a potentially dangerous device such as this.
Along with its protections, the unit has a smart design that makes it easy and efficient to use. The front panel of the device includes an LCD display that gives you a clear reading of its current power setting. There is also a dial that lets you change the amperage from anywhere between 20 and 50 A, with the display giving you a clear indicator of the exact setting that you reached. As for the torch, it has an ergonomic design that makes it easy to hold with precision for extended periods of time. The necessary consumables are included with the unit, although be aware that they aren't of the highest quality and tend to get used up pretty quickly. In the end, this efficient plasma cutter will let you get any cutting job done as easily as possible.
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B0827BMBFM |
HITBOX (UW-CUT40E)
Affordable Plasma Cutter
Not everyone is rolling in money and can afford the high-end plasma cutters that cost an arm and a leg. Sure, the higher-priced units are usually much better suited for serious work than lower cost ones, but that doesn't mean that you can't find a high-quality plasma cutter that is able to get the job done for an affordable price. This is exactly what you get with the HITBOX UW-CUT40E 40A 220V Electric DC Inverter Air Plasma Cutter. This plasma cutter is quite affordable when compared to many of the top-end units, yet it gives you the performance and cutting ability that you would expect of a machine to do some serious work.
The performance of the HITBOX Plasma Cutter makes it useful for cutting various types of metals, including carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper. The unit has a durable shock-resistant case made of high-quality metal that keeps it well-protected, yet it is still light enough to move the unit around easily. The compact dimensions and a weight of just over 10 kg allow for convenient transportation and storage of the machine. This means that you aren't just limited to using it in one place, and you can even store it away when not in use if you need to free up space in your work area.
Energy Saver
Those who are concerned about the amount of energy that this plasma cutter uses will have much to be thankful for. The device works with an efficiency increase of 30% while saving energy by 50%, which makes it suitable for use for both domestic and professional purposes, performing long and voluminous work. The inverter design of this unit gives you that energy efficiency while also contributing to its smaller dimensions and low weight. In addition to this, the unit has various protections that allow for extended use without worrying about the safety of the unit or of yourself, including protections against overheating, overvoltage, and undervoltage.
Something that may surprise those who are already wondering about the affordable price of this unit is that the kit comes with just about everything you need to get started with cutting, making this unit great for those who are getting a plasma cutter for the first time. Along with the torch, gas tube, ground clamp and cable, and the gas valve, you get a complete set of consumables to help you get started. Unfortunately, the instructions that come with the unit are a bit lacking, so you may want to look up some online tutorials of the unit before you get started with cutting. Even so, this unit is easy and safe to use, and will be a welcome addition in anyone's workshop.
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B079CCZ4H8 |
What Is a Plasma Cutter?
There are various metal cutting tools that exist today and each of them has its benefits. For example, a hacksaw can cut a thin wall pipe, while an angle grinder allows cutting through thick metal pieces quickly and easily. So, what is a plasma cutter for then? The answer is simple, for a finer, precision cutting. Angle grinders leave burrs, which require grounding afterwards and it is time-consuming. After all, with an angle grinder, you are able to do the only straight cutting, while a plasma cutter can cut following every movement of your hand. In this article, we've considered the main characteristics that are worth paying attention to when selecting a plasma cutter.
The metalworking commonly includes cutting and welding. Hence, we recommend using a saw for a fast cutting, and get one of the MIG welders to quickly join metal parts and weld quality and uniform seams.
What Features to Compare
Type
Plasma cutters come equipped with transformers and inverters. As for the former cutters, they consist of mechanical parts and offer only the stepped adjustment of the output power and only in the off mode. This type of devices does not allow a constant voltage regulation, so the output voltage can drop under a high load. Yet, the main advantages of transformer models are their simple design that largely facilitates the maintenance, as well as their affordable price. As for the invertor cutters, they feature CNC controls for a steady output power adjustment regardless of input voltage jumps and the load. In addition, plasma cutters employ contact and contactless cutting types. A contact cutting is usually used for the materials with 0.4 - 0.6" thickness, while contactless cutting is applied to 0.7 to 3" thick metalware. Of course, the utilized power is the main aspect of any power tool. As to plasma cutters, this power entirely depends on the output amperage. However, for these devices, the type of a power supply unit is crucial as transformer-powered cutters can cut metal with the thickness of up to 1.5", while inverter-powered are able to provide only the 1.18" max cutting depth. Despite the smaller cutting depth, the performance of inverter plasma cutters is enough for most tasks, so they are often preferred by beginners and even experienced users.
Specifications
Speaking of the operating principle of plasma cutters, they use the compressed air from a reservoir. The compressed air is pumped through a torch nozzle at 0.6-0.9 miles per second speed, where it gets ionized with an electric arc with its temperature reaching 50,000 °F for the metal melting. Thus, the higher is the amperage in the ionizer, the higher is the plasma temperature and the thicker metal pieces the plasma can cut. So, mind the type and thickness of the material you're going to cut when choosing the cutter. There are cutting standards that establish the ratio of metal thickness to the applied amperage. With that, nonferrous metals of up to 19 GA should be cut with 6А power, while stainless steel and ferrous metals are to be cut with 4А. According to this pattern, you need a welder with 50A amperage for cutting the parts of up to 1/2" thickness. The cutting speed is another important aspect, given that the thicker the piece, the slower the cutting. Also, pay attention to the cutter duty cycle. A full duty cycle is considered a 10-minute period. Thus, for example, "50А / 60%" means that the machine can work for 6 min at 50А, i.e. for 60% of the 10-minute interval. When the specified duty cycle is over, the cutter needs to be turned off to cool down, after that you can resume the operation.
Convenience Features
Some plasma cutters are convenient for having built-in compressors that supply the air to the torch. Such machines are compact and are usually used by household owners. The models with external standalone compressors have a longer life cycle and are typically used on construction sites and at production facilities. The availability of an overheating protection is another benefit as it shuts the cutter down if it exceeds the specified temperature. If you're going to use a cutter outdoors, consider the length of its air supply hose, which, if it is long enough, allows not taking the whole device outside. Nevertheless, some machines weigh 20-25 lbs, so they aren't so hard to carry outside. Finally, pay attention to the cutter accessories. Some models may come with a protective helmet or goggles, hoses for air tanks and tips for a contact welding. So, if you have a hard time choosing between two models, the accessories set may be the deciding factor.
FAQ:
Q: Does any plasma cutter have a built-in air compressor?
A: No, it depends on a plasma cutter model. Some of the models are equipped with an air compressor but most are not. Obviously, models with an air compressor cost more and if you're going to buy the model without it, you should certainly know the capacity, pressure, and input current rates suitable for your plasma cutter model. Remember you can't just use any random air compressor, it's obligatory to check all the stats before use.
Q: What is the right way to choose a model for home and garage use?
A: It's the question of your purposes and the price you're ready to pay for it. Mostly, DIYers choose average models, not the most powerful but not the mediocre, too. If you unquestionably know what type of work you will do, you are ready to figure out the output power of the tool. But there is one thing left, you have to decide how much you are ready to pay for this instrument.
Q: Where can I find extra tips and electrodes?
A: You can buy all this extra stuff in most of the specialised shops but if you desire to buy exactly what you need, visit the manufacturer's website and purchase suitable and appropriate tips and electrodes for your model from an authorised dealer.
Q: How to use a plasma cutter?
A: You'll be surprised when you find out how easy it is to use it, but you should learn some rules. If you would like to use your cutter like a real professional, just follow these steps:
- Choose work location: the space that is secure and gives you the opportunity for manoeuvre.
- Ensure that the main unit of the apparatus is powered off and plug it in.
- Connect the air compressor and power it on (in case there is no built-in air compressor).
- Plug the ground clamp in.
- Turn the machine on and set the current.
- Cut the material you need.
- Turn the apparatus off and detach the ground clamp.
- Turn the air off and wind up all cords.
Q: How does a plasma cutter work and what is "plasma"?
A: In simple words, plasma is the fourth state of matter. The matter, naturally, has three states: solid, liquid, gas, and matter converts from one state to the other by the transference of energy, such as heat. But physics claims that there is a fourth state, a state of matter in which an ionised gas becomes highly electrically conductive. This welding machine uses this electrically conductive gas to convert energy from an apparatus to any conductive material. The formation of plasma arc starts when a gas such as oxygen, nitrogen, argon, or even shop air is forced through small orifice holes inside the torch. An electric arc, produced by an external power supply, introduced to this high pressured gas stream, and it is commonly called as a “plasma jet”. This plasma jet instantly reaches temperatures up to 40,000° F, rapidly penetrating into the workpiece and blowing away the melted material.
Sources:
1. A Guide to Buying Plasma Cutters on eBay, eBay. May 22, 2015.
2. Choosing a Plasma Cutter for Your Home Workshop, DoItYourself.
3. James Anderton How to Select a Plasma Cutting Machine for your Shop, ENGINEERINGcom. March 2, 2015.
4. Plasma Cutting - Tips & Techniques, Eastwood.
5. Plasma cutting, Wikipedia. March 29, 2017.
6. How a Plasma Cutter Works, Lincoln Electric.
7. What is a Plasma Cutter? eBay. March 7, 2016.
8. Plasma cutting, HSE.
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