Cut 50 or 60.
At this time I promote that one gets a dual voltage 110v /220v Cut-50 or a Cut-60 type plasma cutter with an AG-60 type Torch as opposed to one with a PT-31 size torch. See below for reference.
Some prefer, in fact insist upon pilot arc type machines but be it known that these machines can be a source of electronic interference to many types of electronics. One of the main advantages of pilot arc type machines is that they can cut mesh and expanded metal. A work around for non pilot light machines is to place a sacrificial metal plate behind the mesh or expanded metal to be cut.
CNC
If you are going to add cnc capabilities you will be needing a machine with a pilot arc.
Pilot Arc Machines on Ebay.
Cut 50 machine Upgrades...
Many Chinese machines often come with a PT-31 Torch. This is a 30 ampere torch.
Upgraading to a AG-60 60 amp torch can improve consumables use and performance significantly.
Most professional torches are of the trigger type configuration as opposed to a switch mounted or exposed on top of the torch.
You can use a pilot arc type torch on a non pilot arc plasma machine by simply not connecting the pilot arc wire.
| Better
Quality PT-31 Torch available on Ebay. Consumables for this Torch |
This torch should allow one to get
the most out of their Cut 50 type machine as that it is engineered to carry greater than 50 amps. Consumables should last longer also. AG-60 Torch available on Ebay Consumables for this Torch |
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The AG-60 Torch has less parts and the end is quite a bit larger. Ideally it is said that the orifice of the consumables to be
used should be on the order of .9mm for a 50 amp torch.
Duty Cycle
One thing to watch with the Chinese machines is the duty cycle. Generally in welding equipment the maximum duty cycle is defined as the percentage of time in a 10-minute period that it can be operated continuously before overheating. A 60 pct. duty cycle means that in a 10 minute period you can run for 6 minutes total. Keep in mind this provides a moving target as that this is cumulative over the last 10 minutes of operation. Exceeding this will often enough lead to semiconductor or other failure. Repairs are not impossible but can be a bit daunting if you do not have adequate means and knowledge to test and repair electronics. The cost to have a low cost Chinese plasma cutter repaired by an actual electronics shop might seem illogical from an economic standpoint.
Moisture is a severe enemy to consumables. The dryer your air the better.
Dessicant Air Dryer
Male 3/8" npt x 1/4" female air fitting Industrial.
Industrial Male 3/8" npt x 1/4" Male air fitting.
Male 3/8" npt x 1/4" female air fitting Automotive.
Automotive Male 3/8"npt x 1/4" Male air fitting.
Desiccant crystals or beads can be reused by processioning in oven or microwave.
Video
Video II